Blepharoplasty

Drooping eyelids can cause you to appear older than you are and can also compromise your vision. If you’re ready to have excess tissue removed from your upper eyelids or underneath your eyes, you might be a candidate for blepharoplasty. Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Barnes performs this procedure at his practice in Newport Beach, California. Schedule a consultation online or call today to book a visit at Dr. Thomas W. Barnes, MD.

What is blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to rejuvenate the appearance of your eyelids. It can help address various aesthetic concerns and signs of aging around the eyes, ultimately providing a more youthful and refreshed look.

Can you explain the difference between upper and lower blepharoplasty?

Upper blepharoplasty focuses on the upper eyelids and involves removing excess skin, muscle, and fat deposits that can cause drooping or hooding of the upper eyelids. This procedure can improve the appearance of sagging upper eyelids, making your eyes appear more alert and youthful.

Lower blepharoplasty, on the other hand, targets the lower eyelids, primarily addressing issues like under-eye bags and puffiness. During this procedure, Dr. Barnes removes or repositions excess fat and skin in your lower eyelid area, creating a smoother and more youthful contour.

How does blepharoplasty work?

The process of blepharoplasty typically involves the following steps:

Anesthesia

You're given local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia to ensure you're comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.

Incisions

Dr. Barnes makes incisions along the natural creases of your eyelids, which helps minimize visible scarring. For upper blepharoplasty, the incisions are made in the upper eyelid creases, while for lower blepharoplasty, they’re made just below the eyelashes or inside the lower eyelid.

Tissue adjustment

Excess skin, muscle, and fat are removed, repositioned, or redistributed as needed to achieve the desired result. Dr. Barnes takes great care to create a harmonious and natural-looking outcome.

The final stage of the procedure is to close the incisions with sutures, skin adhesives, or surgical tape.

What can I expect during the blepharoplasty recovery process?

Recovery from blepharoplasty varies from person to person, but generally, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort for a few days. Dr. Barnes may recommend cold compresses and prescribed medications to help manage your symptoms. 

Most patients can return to work and regular activities within 7-10 days, although some residual swelling may persist for a few weeks. Follow Dr. Barnes’ postoperative care instructions diligently to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.

If you have concerns about drooping eyelids or have compromised eyesight because of overhanging skin, call or book an appointment with Dr. Thomas W. Barnes, MD by phone or online today.