Skip to main content
(410) 484-8860
Length: 1-5 hours (this applies to all facial procedures)
Anesthesia: IV Sedation
Inpatient/Outpatient: Outpatient
Potential Side Effects/Risks: Bruising, soreness, numbness, muscle weakness, and nerve weakness
Principal Benefits: More youthful, alert appearance and relief from visual obstructions

Eyelid Surgery

What Is Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)?

Eyelid surgery, which is referred to medically as blepharoplasty, is a procedure designed to diminish several signs of aging around the eyes. Excess fat and skin on the upper and lower eyelids can make you look tired or much older than you are. Eyelid surgery can target this protruding fat and lax eyelid skin to create smoother, tighter, more youthful-looking eyes. At our practice, blepharoplasty is often performed in conjunction with brow elevation and facelift surgery.

What Are the Benefits of Eyelid Surgery?

Our Baltimore plastic surgeon can perform blepharoplasty on the upper or lower eyelids to rejuvenate the areas around the eye. The procedure can deliver many benefits, including:

  • Smoother, more lifted skin around the eyes
  • Reduction in the appearance of lines and wrinkles
  • Removal of fat deposits that cause puffiness
  • Reduction of under eye bags and circles
  • A more youthful, revitalized appearance

In addition to the aesthetic benefits of eyelid surgery, this procedure can also effectively restore vision impaired by drooping upper the eyelids (or “ptosis”). Some patients have such severe skin laxity above the eye that the skin sags into their field of vision. After an upper blepharoplasty to remove excess skin, these patients can become able to see without obstruction.

Prior to deciding on surgery, our patients are encouraged to consult their ophthalmologists or optometrists to ensure they do not have any undetected visual or dryness problems.

bna-sample
bna-sample

Types of Eyelid Surgery

Upper Blepharoplasty

Upper eyelid surgery is designed to eliminate loose, sagging skin above the eye. The incision can be concealed along the natural crease of the eyelid. During the procedure, the underlying fat can be contoured for a youthful, natural-looking appearance. The underlying musculature can also be tightened to address any laxity.

Lower Blepharoplasty

Lower eyelid surgery is designed to eliminate pockets of fat and excess skin below the eye. The incision can be carefully hidden along the lash line. During the procedure, the excess fat can be repositioned to the tear trough and fill hollowed areas. The underlying ligaments can also be adjusted at this time to better support the eyelid.

Double Eyelid Surgery

Double eyelid surgery, which may commonly be referred to as ‘Asian eyelid surgery’, is a procedure that aims to create a clearly defined upper eyelid crease. Individuals who seek this procedure can be of any ethnicity and simply prefer the look of a double fold eyelid for themselves. Many patients who undergo double eyelid surgery want to achieve the appearance of a more widely opened eye, a more visible lash line, and/or the ability to wear certain styles of eye makeup. Double eyelid surgery can also be combined with traditional blepharoplasty techniques to accomplish eye rejuvenation goals.

Blepharoplasty Progression Photos

View our full patient results photo gallery

What Happens During Eyelid Surgery?

Blepharoplasty can be performed on the upper or lower eyelids, depending upon the patient’s individual needs and expectations. Some patients elect to combine both procedures to achieve more comprehensive rejuvenation.

Eyelid surgery is generally performed under IV sedation on an outpatient basis and, depending on the complexity of the procedure, surgery can take anywhere between one to five hours (which is our broad estimate for all facial plastic surgery procedures). Incisions are made along natural eyelid creases and/or the lashline to keep them as hidden as possible. Using these incisions, Dr. Houssock can make all necessary adjustments to the underlying tissue and remove excess skin. Finally, the incisions are carefully closed with tiny sutures and bandaging is applied.

What Is Eyelid Surgery Recovery Like?

After the procedure is complete, most patients will experience only moderate soreness or bruising. These side effects usually last for only a few days; however, every patient responds to the procedure differently. Patients typically take one week off from work to recuperate.

What Are the Typical Results of Eyelid Surgery?

The results of blepharoplasty typically become apparent in the weeks following the procedure as the surgical site heals. To prolong the effects of the surgery and reap its full benefits, patients should take good care of their skin and strictly adhere to Dr. Houssock’s instructions for recovery.

When blepharoplasty is performed by a highly skilled surgeon like Dr. Houssock, the surgery can make the areas around the eyes appear significantly more alert, refreshed, and youthful. In addition, patients whose vision had been obstructed by overhanging skin often report that the surgery has improved their ability to see. Furthermore, the results of eyelid surgery can last for many years with proper skin care and maintenance of overall health.

For a clearer sense of Dr. Houssock’s blepharoplasty results, feel free to explore our eyelid surgery gallery.

Does Eyelid Surgery Cause Scarring?

Compared to the majority of cosmetic procedures, which often present a slightly larger opportunity for visible scarring, the chances of noticeable scarring after blepharoplasty are quite minimal. This is because the incisions are usually placed in spots that are easy to conceal, such as the upper eyelid crease, near the lash line, or inside the lower eyelid. Though substantial scarring is rare, scars that do appear should fade gradually in the months following surgery. If you so desire, Dr. Houssock can provide suggestions for products that can be used to massage the tissue.

Are There Any Non-Surgical Alternatives to Eyelid Surgery?

At this time, surgical blepharoplasty is the best option for reducing excess sag and skin above and below the eyes. That said, certain non-surgical treatments can be used for some patients to address less pronounced signs of aging around the eyes. For instance, BOTOX® Cosmetic, a popular injectable, can be especially beneficial for dynamic wrinkles, or wrinkles caused by repetitive facial expressions. It is important to note, however, that while the effects of eyelid surgery can be very long-lasting, those of BOTOX® Cosmetic only last for about three to six months. As such, if you are suffering from moderate to severe eyelid sag or wrinkles and are interested in long-term results, eyelid surgery may be the more ideal treatment to consider.

How Much Does Eyelid Surgery Cost?

The average costs for eyelid surgery at our practice are estimated as:

  • Upper Eyelids: $5,900 to $6,900
  • Lower Eyelids: $7,500 to $8,900
  • Upper & Lower Eyelids: $8,500 to $9,200

Although these price ranges represent accurate averages, it is important to schedule a consultation with Dr. Houssock to receive a quote for your custom surgical plan. Based on the degree of enhancement needed, the areas targeted for surgical improvement, the proposed eyelid lift techniques, and any additional procedures/treatments you choose to incorporate for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation, your estimate can be calculated. At the end of your consultation you will be presented with your detailed quote and can ask our knowledgeable office team any questions you may have about pricing, insurance benefits (if your procedure is being performed for medical reasons – see more information in the FAQs below), out-of-pocket costs, payment methods we accept, and financing arrangements available through trusted third-party lenders. If you choose to move forward with your procedure, our team can also help you schedule your date for surgery.

If you are considering eyelid surgery, we encourage you to contact our practice and schedule a consultation with our experienced plastic surgeon.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank you & your wonderful staff for my experience at your facility. From the moment I entered until the time I left the staff was so sincere & caring. The whole process was very calming. I know that I am still in the healing stage but from what I can see I am very happy!”
Anonymous

Complementary Procedures to Eyelid Surgery

To achieve a more balanced and youthful appearance, patients often choose to incorporate other facial procedures into their care plan. One popular complementary treatment is a facelift, which can address sagging skin and deep wrinkles around the mid to lower face. Additionally, a brow lift can be performed alongside eyelid surgery to elevate the forehead and reduce the appearance of drooping brows.

Some patients also choose to combine blepharoplasty with breast and body procedures. Options such as tummy tuck surgery, breast augmentation, liposuction, and breast lift surgery can contribute to a full-body rejuvenation. If you would like to learn more about these potential solutions, we encourage you to discuss your goals with Dr. Houssock.

Additional Eyelid Surgery FAQS

Is eyelid surgery safe?

Blepharoplasty is considered a safe procedure when performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. That said, as with any major surgery, the opportunity for complications exists. While rare, possible risks associated with eyelid surgery include numbness, nerve or muscle weakness, infection, and irritation.* Please rest assured that Dr. Houssock will thoroughly inform you of any potential side effects and take every precaution to minimize the risk of complications.

Is eyelid surgery painful?

Most patients do not consider eyelid surgery painful. Sedation will be administered to help you remain comfortable during the procedure itself, and you should not experience major discomfort as you heal. You may notice a certain degree of bruising, numbness, or soreness, but these side effects are normal and should subside within a few days. For optimal results and a safe recovery, be sure to closely follow your aftercare instructions.

Do eyelid surgery results look natural?

As a renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. Houssock always aims to produce results that flatter a patient’s natural beauty. Through years of training, research, and hands-on procedural experience, Dr. Houssock has acquired the skills and anatomical knowledge necessary to produce results that enhance natural features while avoiding an inauthentic “surgical” look.

My eyelid skin is hanging over my eyes. Am I a candidate for eyelid surgery?

Definitely. The removal of upper eyelid skin and fat will improve the overhang.

Is the cost of blepharoplasty covered by health insurance?

When performed for cosmetic reasons, the cost of blepharoplasty is typically not covered by insurance companies. Patients who undergo eyelid surgery to restore their full field of vision may have a portion of the cost of the surgery covered by their health insurance. Most insurance companies will require documentation of this condition from a physician prior to the date of surgery.

Does eyelid surgery affect your vision?

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) does not have an effect on the eyeball. In some cases vision is enhanced because overhanging skin is removed from acting as an obstruction. In addition, following removal of overhanging, more light is allowed to enter the eye so vision can be enhanced that way, as well. It is a good idea to consult your ophthalmologist or optometrist before getting an eyelid procedure to assure there are not any underlying visual or dryness problems that you may not be aware of.

Can I speak to some of your previous patients who had facelifts or eyelid procedures and get a reference?

Absolutely. In fact, Dr. Houssock would encourage this, as she considers her past patients her greatest endorsement. Our staff will gladly arrange this for you.

How do I massage scar tissue after eyelid surgery?

Although heavy scarring after eyelid surgery is rare, massaging the surgical area may help prevent scars and speed up their healing. You can massage certain creams, ointments, or oils into the area surrounding the eyelids to facilitate scar healing and prevent other scars from appearing. To do so, put a drop of the ointment on your finger and gently rub it into the area, being careful to only apply a small amount of pressure. Dr. Houssock would be happy to recommend products for these massages during your consultation. Before using any type of product for these purposes, please be sure to discuss it with our team so that we can provide more specific advice and instructions in order to minimize any potential disruptions to the overall healing process.

If you are considering eyelid surgery, we encourage you to contact our practice and schedule a consultation with our experienced plastic surgeon.

Medical References*

Mayo Clinic