What is Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic and sometimes functional procedure that improves the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. It rejuvenates the area surrounding the eyes, creating a more alert and rested appearance.
At Cultura Dermatology and Plastic Surgery in Washington, DC, Dr. Kelly Bolden, MD, FACS created a unique, micro-grafting approach to her lower eyelid lift surgery to eliminate bags under the eyes. When combined with an upper eyelid lift to remove excess skin and correct droopiness, the result is a refreshed and rejuvenated natural look.
20+ years
of experience & counting
100,000+
laser hair removal treatments performed
32+
culturally aware doctors
What Does Eyelid Surgery Treat?
Aesthetic Concerns
Aesthetic concerns such as fine lines and wrinkles are easily treated with eyelid surgery. This procedure can smooth the skin around the eyes, creating a younger look.
Functional Concerns
Functional concerns include heavy, sagging eyelids that obstruct vision. An eyelid lift can excise extra skin, lifting the upper eyelids and creating a more natural, youthful crease.
Medical Concerns
Medical concerns like lower eyelid ptosis can cause dry eye. Lower eyelid surgery can lift and restore the lower eyelids, reducing symptoms.
The benefits of Eyelid Surgery
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Refreshed Appearance
Reduces droopiness and puffiness around the eyes.
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Improved Vision
Removes excess skin that may impair vision.
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Youthful Look
Smooths wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes.
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Long-lasting Results
Offers results that can last for many years.
self care is self love!
Good Candidates for Eyelid Surgery
Ideal candidates are individuals who:
- Are in good health and free from any serious eye conditions.
- Have realistic goals for surgery and the results.
- Are non-smoking or willing to quit
- Have severe upper eyelid droopiness with folds.
- Have puffy lower lids bags with fatty deposits.
- Have excess and loose skin on both upper and lower lids.
Preparing for Eyelid Surgery
Dr. Bolden will guide patients through the preparation process, which may include:
- A medical evaluation to assess eye health and any medical conditions.
- Adjusting any medications that may increase risks.
- Reviewing pre-surgical instructions to ensure a smooth and successful procedure.
Eyelid Lift Incisions
Recovery is slower than upper eyelids with swelling and bruising.
Upper Eyelid Lift:
Incisions are conspicuously hidden within the natural fold of the eyelids.
Incisions are closed with removable sutures.
Recovery is fast with minimal downtime.
Lower Eyelid Lift:
Incisions are made on the inside of the lower eyelid (trans-conjunctival) without removing any skin. This allows for the removal, repositioning, or micro-grafting of fat.
Incisions are made directly below the eyelash line (sub-cilliary) allowing for the removal of redundant and excess skin as well as fat.
Common Related Procedures
Eyelid surgery is often performed along with other facial procedures to enhance results, including surgical and non-surgical options.
Surgical Procedures:
- Facelift: Addresses aging around the mid to lower face.
- Neck Lift: Refines and rejuvenates the neck area.
- Brow or forehead lift: Addresses droopiness in the forehead or brow area.
Non-Surgical procedures:
- Microneedling or radio-frequency treatments: such as Morpheus8 or Accutite, target the periorbital and brow area creating precision contraction.
- Neuromodulator injections: such as Botox or Xeomin, commonly called liquid eyelid lift.
- Injectable fillers: Hyaluronic acid-based fillers can address the hollowness and conceal lower lid bags.
What to Expect From an Eyelid Surgery Consultation
During the consultation, Dr. Bolden evaluates the patient’s eyelids, discusses goals and concerns, and outlines the best surgical options. This personalized approach ensures that all patients are fully informed about their personalized procedure.
Eyelid Surgery Recovery
Recovery may involve swelling and bruising, but these typically subside within two weeks. Dr. Bolden provides detailed care instructions and support to ensure a smooth recovery. Most patients return to normal activities within 7-10 days.
Cost of Eyelid Surgery
The cost of eyelid surgery at Cultura Plastic Surgery varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether additional treatments accompany it. Dr. Bolden will discuss pricing details and financing options during the consultation.
