Eyelid Lift

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the eyelids.

Surgery can be performed on the upper lids, lower lids or both.

Whether you want to improve your appearance or are experiencing functional problems with your eyelids, eyelid surgery can rejuvenate the area surrounding your eyes.

What eyelid surgery can treat

Loose or sagging skin that creates folds or disturbs the natural contour of the upper eyelid, sometimes impairing vision
Fatty deposits that appear as puffiness in the eyelids
Bags under the eyes
Drooping lower eyelids that reveal white below the iris
Excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelid

Who is a good candidate for eyelid surgery?

Good candidates for eyelid surgery include:
Healthy individuals with no medical conditions that can impair healing
Nonsmokers
Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic goals
Individuals without serious eye conditions
Remember that the eyelids are part of the face. The appearance of a drooping upper lid may also be due to relaxation of the forehead skin and eyebrow. Sometimes stretching out of the upper eyelid muscle may cause a drooping eyelid. This is called eyelid ptosis and requires a different surgical treatment.

Anesthesia

The type of anesthesia that is used for an eyelid lift depends on the individual patient. However, most eyelid lifts can be done comfortably with local anesthesia and light sedation.

Cost

The total cost of a eyelid lift depends on the individual patient, but can range from $2500 to $5500.

Recovery

There is usually a 3 to 4 week period of significant recovery after an eyelid lift. Bruising and swelling is typical. Sutures are usually removed within 14 days.

Risks

The decision to have plastic surgery is extremely personal and you will have to weigh the potential benefits in achieving your goals with the risks and potential complications of eyelid lift surgery. Only you can make that decision for yourself.

You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure and any risks and potential complications.

Possible eyelid surgery risks include:

Anesthesia risks
Swelling and bruising
Bleeding from the incision lines
Dryness to the eyes
Sensitivity to sun or other bright light
Difficulty closing your eyes
Ectropion, an outward rolling of the lower eyelid
Infection
Lid lag, a pulling down of the lower eyelid, may occur and is often temporary
Temporary or even permanent change in vision, and very rare chance of blindness
Changes in skin sensation or numbness of the eyelashes
Pain, which may persist
Possible need for revision surgery
Unfavorable scarring

These risks and others will be fully discussed prior to your consent. It is important that you address all your questions directly with Dr. Rhee.