Blepharoplasty: Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery

Are you considering having blepharoplasty, or cosmetic eyelid surgery, as it is more commonly known? If so, you might have some questions about this particular plastic surgery. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about blepharoplasty with concise, easy to understand answers in layman’s terms instead of technical medical jargon.

Q. What is blepharoplasty?

A. Blepharoplasty, or cosmetic eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure that is performed by a plastic surgeon or cosmetic surgeon. This surgery is normally done on both the upper and lower eyelids to achieve a more youthful, alert, and well-rested appearance.

Q. Who is a good candidate for blepharoplasty?

A. You are a good candidate for eyelid surgery if you are in good health, and have realistic expectations about what this cosmetic surgery can accomplish. Eyelid surgery can correct puffy upper eyelids, minimize or eliminate under eye bags, and restore vision that is obscured by drooping excess skin and/or fat in the eyelids.

Q. Will eyelid surgery correct crow’s feet?

A. No. Eyelid surgery is specifically for the upper and lower eyelids. However, many patients elect to have blepharoplasty in conjunction with other types of plastic surgery that might include a facelift or dermal fillers to correct wrinkles at the corners of the eyes known as crow’s feet.

Q. Will eyelid surgery eliminate dark ender eye circles?

A. No. Blepharoplasty can help reduce puffy bags under the eyes, but dark circles are usually a result of blood circulation underneath the skin.

Q. Is there scarring from eyelid surgery?

A. The incisions for blepharoplasty are normally made in the natural crease of the eyelids, so that the thin, threadlike scars do not show.

Q. How long will the results of eyelid surgery last?

A. The results of this cosmetic surgery are very long lasting. Bear in mind, however, that it will not stop the natural process of aging.

Q. How long is the recovery period after eyelid surgery?

A. Most patients are able to return to normal activities, including work, after about seven to ten days.

Q. Will health insurance pay for cosmetic eyelid surgery?

A. Probably not. That being said, there are cases where a person’s vision is compromised due to excessive drooping upper eyelids and in those cases, health insurance will usually pay as it is a procedure that is considered medically necessary.

Ontario cosmetic surgeon Peter Brownrigg, MD, has extensive experience performing Thermage, BOTOX injections, and other cosmetic procedures.