Blepharoplasty is a highly popular surgery sought after by men and women to remove drooping skin, excess fat, and sagging tissue.

In some cases, blepharoplasty is medically necessary. A condition called ptosis — or “drooping eyelid” — can be so pronounced that patients’ vision is obscured, making activities like driving dangerous.

Luckily, there are blepharoplasty options to address all these issues. But for those who want a more open-eyed and youthful appearance, is lower or upper blepharoplasty the answer? 

Here’s all about both techniques and which can guide you toward your facial goals.

What Is Upper Blepharoplasty?

Upper blepharoplasty is a surgery performed on the upper eyelids to remove excess tissue that contributes to upper eyelid hooding.

It also delivers a more youthful appearance and is highly sought after for that reason, as well as for drooping that obstructs the patient’s vision.

What Is Lower Blepharoplasty?

Lower blepharoplasty removes excess skin, fat, and tissue underneath the eyes.

Unfortunately, as we age, fat can accumulate under the eyes. This makes the eyes look “baggy” and tired. And that can translate to feeling one looks older than one feels.

A tighter, firmer, and less fatty under-eye area can address these issues, making lower blepharoplasty a popular procedure for both men and women.

Which Should You Choose?

Droopy upper eyelids or fatty and baggy lower eyelids can make you look older than you feel on the outside. And that can translate to self-esteem issues.

Some people also choose blepharoplasty to stay competitive in the workplace or seek a romantic partner.

Whatever your reasons, they’re legitimate. But which option is best for you?

That will depend upon which area is bothering you more. Many patients have upper and lower blepharoplasty at the same time. 

For others, only one area is a concern. If you wish to have upper plus lower eyelid surgery, you should have them done together rather than needing two separate recovery times.

Sit down and talk with your plastic surgeon about which option will give you desired results.

How Is Blepharoplasty Performed?

Upper and lower blepharoplasty are performed similarly.

  • Either local sedation, IV sedation, or general anesthesia may be used.
  • For general anesthesia, an intravenous (IV) line will be placed, and the anesthesia will be administered.

Upper Blepharoplasty

  • Incisions are made in the upper crease of the eyelid.
  • The skin is trimmed away. Fat pockets may also be removed, or they will be repositioned and shaped into a youthful, natural appearance.
  • The area is closed with sutures, and the patient is awakened fully from anesthesia.

Lower Blepharoplasty

  • Incisions are made along each lash line.
  • The skin and any excess fat are trimmed away.
  • The area is closed with sutures, and the patient is awakened fully from anesthesia.

Is Recovery Different Between the Two Procedures?

Recovery is very similar with both techniques. It should not be extended if you have both procedures done simultaneously.

Each person’s recovery is different, but your recovery should follow this timeline:

  • After the procedure, you will be awakened and asked to walk. Ask for support if you need it. It is important to engage in light activity from the beginning to avoid the possibility of blood clots.
  • The area will be bruised (a “black eye” appearance) and swollen at first. This is normal.
  • Your vision may be blurry for a short period. This usually only lasts a week or two. Ask your doctor whether your blurriness is normal.
  • You may experience some dryness of the eyes.
  • You should stay lightly active but not engage in heavy-duty exercise activities or lifting heavy objects for the first month.
  • You may be able to drive in two weeks or so. This will partly depend upon whether you have experienced blurred vision.
  • In four to six weeks, you should feel much more like yourself again. Some swelling may remain for a few more weeks, but it should be minimal. You will also be back to your normal activities at this time.

How Much Do the Procedures Cost?

Upper or lower blepharoplasty may cost around $5,000, but each patient and surgery is unique. Ask your plastic surgeon what kind of cost you should expect.

You…at Your Best

When performed by an experienced and caring plastic surgeon, blepharoplasty can be a game-changer. You can’t turn back the hands of time, but a properly-performed procedure should give you a fresher, brighter, and more youthful appearance.

That’s you at your best. Enjoy your brighter new look!