Blepharoplasty
Eyelid Lift Surgery
What is a Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift)?
Our Eyelid surgery, or Blepharoplasty, is intended to create a more youthful, rested appearance around the eyes. It may also expand visual fields if excessive upper lid skin has partially blocked vision. This procedure is done on an outpatient basis at our Edina clinic while under sedation with local or general anesthesia.
Who is a good candidate?
You may be a suitable candidate for an eye lift if you:
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Are in good overall health, with no medical conditions that could impair healing (such as uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders).
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Do not smoke, or are willing to quit before and after surgery.
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Have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure.
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Experience sagging or drooping eyelids due to aging, genetics, or other factors.
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Have puffiness or bags under the eyes that make you look tired or older than you feel.
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In some cases, have upper eyelid skin that interferes with your vision (a visual field test may be required to determine medical necessity for insurance coverage).
How is the procedure performed?
Blepharoplasty is done on an outpatient basis under sedation and local or general anesthesia. The incisions are made where the natural crease should be in the upper lids and below the lash line in the lower lids. Excess fat and skin are removed. If only excess fat is present in the lower lids, it may be removed through an incision inside the lower lids with no external incision or scar (transconjunctival blepharoplasty). This is a near painless procedure requiring only several days of downtime for recovery. However, bruises can be dramatic. They pass with time, but often linger for more than a week.
What does recovery look like?
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Initial Recovery: Expect swelling and bruising around the eyes for 1 to 3 weeks after surgery. Most people feel comfortable returning to work and social activities within 7 to 14 days, once the majority of swelling and bruising has subsided.
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Discomfort: Mild pain, tightness, or itchiness is common in the first week. Cold compresses, prescribed medications, and keeping your head elevated can help manage symptoms.
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Care Instructions: Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and swimming for at least two weeks. Protect your eyes from bright light and dust by wearing sunglasses outdoors.
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Makeup and Contact Lenses: You can usually resume wearing makeup and contact lenses about 10 to 14 days after surgery, once incisions have healed.
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Long-Term Healing: Minor swelling may persist for several weeks, but your final results will continue to improve over the first few months.
Frequently asked questions
How long do results last?
Blepharoplasty results are long-lasting. While the natural aging process continues, most patients enjoy a refreshed appearance for many years
Will there be visible scars?
Incisions are typically made in the natural creases of the eyelids, making scars minimally visible once healed.
Is the procedure painful?
Discomfort is generally mild and well-controlled with medication. Most patients report soreness or tightness rather than severe pain.
When can I drive or return to normal activities?
You should not drive until your vision is clear and you are no longer taking prescription pain medication. Most people resume light activities within a week and return to work in 7 to 14 days.
Are there any risks or complications?
All surgeries carry some risk. Potential complications include infection, dry eyes, difficulty closing the eyes, or asymmetry. Choosing an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon reduces these risks.
Can insurance cover this procedure?
Insurance may cover the procedure if sagging eyelids significantly impair your vision. A visual field test and documentation from an ophthalmologist are required for coverage