Blepharoplasty facts from Cincinnati, Ohio plastic surgeons and authors

Eyelid lifts are among the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures because they can make a big difference in appearance. Your eyes can go from looking tired to refreshed through a procedure that has a low risk of complications and a relatively easy recovery.

The procedure takes about an hour for upper eyelids and an hour and a half for lower lids. General anesthesia is not necessary, and the procedure can be performed with mild sedation. Extra upper eyelid skin removal can restore the upper eyelid crease, improve the appearance of excess fullness and correct hooding of skin over the eyelid margins. If you have brow droop, you may need a brow lift for maximal improvement. Lower eyelid lift or blepharoplasty can improve the appearance of puffiness, decrease redundant skin and improve eye shape. If you have very papery skin with many fine wrinkles, a peel may provide additional improvement for maximal results. The incisions for these procedures are demonstrated in the pictures below.

Upper Eyelid Incision

Lower Eyelid Incision

Recovery usually involves swelling that improves significantly over the first week, but may take longer to resolve completely. Bruising is common, but is usually mild. For quickest resolution of swelling, you should sleep with your head elevated after surgery and apply ice packs frequently. You may return to most normal activities within a week. Camouflage makeup is available through Kathy Jones Skin Care and is helpful for concealing bruising, if needed.

Our plastic surgeons see patients from across the United States in our Cincinnati, Ohio and Northern Kentucky offices. We focus on cosmetic surgery for women and emphasize patient education so that you can make informed decisions. If you are ready to schedule a consultation, click here for more information. If you are still considering your options, please spend time on our informative website for information written by our plastic surgeons for patients. You may also want to check out Dr. Vennemeyer’s book, Plastic Surgery Myths Dispelled, and Dr. Loftus’ book, The Smart Woman’s Guide to Plastic Surgery. Best Wishes!