What Can Blepharoplasty Address?
What Does the Eyelid Procedure Entail?
Upper Eyelid Surgery
Lower Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid Lift Concerns
Recovery
Generally, there is minimal discomfort that may include tightness, bruising, and swelling after the procedure. Patients are encouraged to keep their heads elevated to help reduce bruising and swelling. Sutures are removed after four or five days, and bruising should dissipate after eight to 10 days. You can resume your typical activities within one or two weeks and strenuous activities within two or three weeks.
Patients are instructed to use lubricating ointment and drops immediately after surgery and for several weeks following surgery. Normal tear production is disrupted and can last for several weeks or even longer after eyelid surgery. Makeup can be worn to cover any remaining bruising or discoloration after a few days. Sunglasses and sun protection should be worn for the first few weeks when you are outside.
Some patients experience sensitivity to light and mild vision blurring for a few weeks, which is temporary. There is a risk of persistent dry eyes after any eyelid surgery, and if one has this problem before surgery, it can worsen the problem.
Scars
The natural contours of the eyelids generally conceal scarring. Any visible scarring is typically unnoticeable and can be hidden with cosmetics.
Cost
Every eyelid surgery is completely customized to achieve the patient’s unique goals. After discussing your concerns and preferences, Dr. Green can determine a surgical plan and provide an assessment along with a price estimate.
Pain
Any pain associated with your recuperation can be alleviated with medications prescribed by your physician.
The Art of Plastic Surgery
“Every block of stone has a statue inside it, and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it.”
– Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni
Eyelid Surgery Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
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Am I an ideal candidate for eyelid surgery?
Anyone with bothersome bags under their eyes or excessive wrinkling and loose eyelid skin can benefit from eyelid surgery. You should be healthy and have realistic, positive expectations for your outcome.
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How long does the blepharoplasty procedure take?
Eyelid surgery takes between one and three hours to perform.
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Can I combine my blepharoplasty with other procedures?
Many patients decide to combine their blepharoplasty with a facelift, brow lift, neck lift, or even chin augmentation or nose surgery for full-facial rejuvenation.
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How long do the results of eyelid surgery last?
Your results should be long lasting, especially when precautions are taken (maintaining a healthy lifestyle, using protection when exposed to the sun, and following a daily skincare routine).
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Can eyelid surgery be used to create an upper eyelid crease for patients of Asian descent?
Some Asian patients desire to create an upper eyelid crease or make the one they have more distinct. This can be achieved through eyelid surgery without erasing evidence of ethnic or racial heritage.
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Is eyelid surgery ever performed for functional reasons?
Yes. In addition to cosmetic improvement, upper eyelid surgery may be performed when excess skin interferes with vision. Patients sometimes notice difficulty with peripheral vision or a feeling of heaviness throughout the day. In these cases, blepharoplasty can be planned with both functional and aesthetic goals in mind. Documentation and testing may be required if the procedure is being evaluated for functional benefit. -
Will eyelid surgery change the shape of my eyes?
The goal of blepharoplasty is not to change your eye shape, but to restore a more rested version of your natural appearance. When performed with precision, eyelid surgery preserves your unique features while removing excess skin or fat that may contribute to a tired or aged look. Dr. Green focuses on subtle, natural-looking results.
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When can I wear makeup or contact lenses again?
You can usually resume wearing eye makeup within one to two weeks, once the incisions have healed and any residual swelling has improved. Contact lens use may also resume around this time, depending on comfort. Dr. Green provides personalized guidance during follow-up visits to ensure that it’s appropriate to safely return to these routines.
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Will people be able to tell I had eyelid surgery?
The goal of eyelid surgery is a refreshed, natural appearance instead of an obvious surgical change. Most patients find that others notice they look more rested or alert, without being able to identify a specific procedure. Incisions are placed in natural creases or inside the lower eyelid, making them difficult to detect once healed.
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Does eyelid surgery help with under-eye dark circles?
Eyelid surgery can improve the appearance of dark circles if they are caused by shadowing from puffiness or bulging fat. However, pigmentation-related dark circles may require additional treatments. Dr. Green evaluates the underlying cause of under-eye concerns and recommends the most effective approach.
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What happens if I delay eyelid surgery?
Eyelid aging is progressive, meaning skin laxity and puffiness may become more pronounced over time. While there’s no required timeline for surgery, delaying treatment may result in more advanced changes that require a more comprehensive approach later. Many patients choose to address concerns once they begin affecting appearance or, in some cases, vision.
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How do I know if my concerns are from my eyelids or my brows?
Heaviness in the upper eye area is not always caused by excess eyelid skin. In some patients, the brow position contributes significantly to the appearance of hooding. When the brow descends, it can push tissue downward, creating the illusion of excess eyelid skin. Dr. Scott Green evaluates the relationship between the brow and eyelids during consultation to determine whether eyelid surgery alone will achieve the desired result or if addressing the brow may also be considered.
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Why choose Dr. Scott Green for eyelid surgery?
Dr. Scott Green is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in facial procedures, including blepharoplasty. Known for his precise technique and attention to detail, he focuses on achieving natural, balanced results that enhance, not alter, your appearance. Patients in Sacramento and Granite Bay trust Dr. Green for thoughtful, individualized care and refined outcomes.