What is eyelid surgery?

Blepharoplasty, also known as an eyelid lift or simply eyelid surgery, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure to address the sagging skin, wrinkles and puffiness of your upper or lower eyelids.

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As we age gravity will cause the skin around our eyes to begin to sag, sometimes even covering the eyelashes. As if gravity isn't enough, the skin also begins to lose collagen and elastin as we get older, resulting in less elasticity of the skin and allowing gravity to take it's toll. Additionally, the fat of the lower lid can begin to bulge causing unsightly "bags" under the eyes. Blepharoplasty is a great way to restore your bright, youthful appearance and match how you feel on the inside to how you look on the outside. .

A 2021 patient of Dr. Waterman who underwent a lower blepharoplasty. 

how an Eyelid Lift can Help

• Create a more youthful rejuvenated look around the eyes

• Reduce wrinkles and creasing around the upper and lower lids

• Reduce or eliminate under eye bags associated with aging and tiredness

• Remove loose skin around the eyes that can cause reduced or impaired vision

• Reduce skin irritation from excess skin rubbing together

• Reduce forehead straining and discomfort from muscle strain in eyelids

• Improvement in appearance of lower lid bulging

 More information

Aftercare and recovery 

After blepharoplasty patients may temporarily experience mild to moderate bruising and swelling, red and watery eyes, light sensitivity and blurred vision.

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Recovery instructions from your surgeon may include avoiding rubbing the area while you heal, avoiding contact lenses for at least 2 weeks, wearing sunglasses to avoid sun exposure, applying a cold compress to the eyes after surgery and more. You will be given detailed written instructions at the time of your procedure. 

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Who is a Good Candidate?

If you want to address concerns with your upper or lower lids, eyelid surgery may be right for you. The ideal candidate will

• Be in overall good health

• Be a non-smoker before and after the procedure; smoking interferes significantly with proper healing

• Have healthy and realistic expectations and goals

• Have no serious or significant eye conditions

Other info

Dr. Waterman can perform your blepharoplasty as an in-office procedure, under local anesthesia with oral sedation, eliminating the hassle and expense of the operating room and resulting in a potentially shorter recovery period.

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An upper blepharoplasty is sometimes combined with a lateral browlift to enhance results. Dr. Waterman will discuss this with you if you also have significant drooping of your brow. 

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