Eyelids (Blepharoplasty)

Blepharoplasty creates more youthful eyelids by re-positioning the skin, muscle and fat of the upper and/or lower eyelids. These surgeries are highly individualized because of differences in eyelid form, ethnic differences and individual aesthetic preferences.

The surgery for the lower eyelid and upper eyelid are separate procedures that usually, but not always, are performed at the same surgery.

In conjunction with blepharoplasty, a browlift may be used to improve the upper eyelid, and cheek lift (mid-face lift or facelift) may be used to improve the lower eyelid.

Upper eyelid

The effect of upper lid blepharoplasty are to improve:

    • Excess skin of the upper lid
      • blepharoplasty removes the excess skin that causes fullness and hanging skin above the upper eyelid.
      • browlift will elevate the eyelid skin of upper lid and may be used in conjunction with or instead of blepharoplasty.
    • Puffiness (causes by pouches of fat)
      • Remove fat from under the muscle of upper eyelid to deepen the lid crease.
    • Position of crease
      • The crease of the upper lid can be repositioned. This is particularly important for Asian women.
    • Slant of eyelid corner (canthus)
      • This may occur if muscle is tightened

Lower eyelid

The effect of lower eyelids blepharoplasty are to improve:

  • Excess skin
  • Remove the extra skin folds with a hidden incision under the lashes
  • Tighten the skin with a light peel or laser.
  • Puffiness (bags)
    • Remove fat from under the muscle of lower eyelid to deepen the lid crease.
      • Typically this is done with an incision under the eyelashes. (subciliary)
      • This can also be achieved with a hidden incision inside the eyelid (transconjunctival).
    • tighten the muscles in front of the fat pockets to push the fat back
    • lift the cheek fat with a (mid-face lift) to improve the hollows and achieve a more youthful appearance.
  • Slant of eyelid corner (canthus)
    • Slight slant is possible if muscle is tightened
    • More slant can be achieved by repositioning the lateral tendon (canthoplasty)
  • Crowsfeet wrinkles
    • This can be done by removing a segment of the muscle
“Primum non nocere” - “never do harm” is my underlying philosophy.”
-ERNEST KAPLAN