A refreshed, brighter appearance often starts with the eyes. Over time, the upper eyelids can begin to sag or droop due to aging, genetics, or skin laxity.
Drooping eyelids can create a heavy or tired look and may even impact your vision. This can lead to a tired, heavy-eyed look and in some cases, even interfere with vision.
Upper eyelid surgery, also called blepharoplasty, is an effective solution that removes loose skin and restores a more youthful, natural contour to the upper eyelids.
At Adara Surgical Institute, every eyelid procedure is tailored to your facial anatomy and aesthetic goals. Whether you are looking to improve function, aesthetics, or both, our experienced surgical team provides care that is precise, thoughtful, and patient-focused.
Is Eyelid Surgery Right For You?
Eyelid aging is a gradual process. You may not notice how much your eyelids have changed until you find yourself raising your brows just to see clearly. For many people, this leads to symptoms like:
- Drooping or sagging eyelids
- Excess skin that affects peripheral vision
- A tired or heavy-eyed appearance
Upper eyelid surgery is ideal for those who want to restore a more youthful look or improve their field of vision. If you are in good general health and have realistic expectations, you may be an excellent candidate for this procedure.
Blepharoplasty Procedure Details
Blepharoplasty is a straightforward surgical procedure performed in our fully equipped outpatient surgical suite. You will be able to go home the same day and recover in the comfort of your own home.
To begin, an IV will be started so a sedative can be administered ensuring that you stay comfortable and relaxed throughout the procedure. Local anesthesia is then used to numb the area around the eyes. You have the option to remain awake and relaxed, or to be fully asleep. Most patients choose to be awake with sedation, and general anesthesia is rarely needed.
During surgery:
- A small incision is made in the natural crease of the upper eyelid.
- We carefully remove excess skin, and when needed, adjust or remove fat to reduce puffiness.
- The skin is sutured with fine sutures to support smooth healing and minimal scarring.
The procedure typically takes less than an hour, and you will be monitored in our recovery suite before being released to go home.
Types of Eyelid Lifts and Alternatives
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Traditional Blepharoplasty | A surgical approach using an incision hidden in the natural crease of the upper eyelid or just under the lower lash line. Offers dramatic rejuvenation with virtually invisible scarring. |
| Transconjunctival Approach | A technique where the incision is made inside the lower eyelid. It allows for fat removal but does not address excess skin. Ideal for younger patients with good skin tone. |
| Laser Resurfacing | A non-surgical method to tighten skin and improve texture around the eyes. Best for mild cases of eyelid aging or as a preventive measure. |
| Neurotoxin Injectables | Temporarily smooth dynamic wrinkles around the eyes by relaxing the underlying muscles. Frequently used to soften crow’s feet and maintain surgical results. |
| Dermal Fillers | Restore lost volume and fill in hollows around the eyes, especially in the tear trough area. Effects are subtle and temporary. |
| Ultherapy | Uses focused ultrasound energy to lift and tighten skin by stimulating collagen production. Often chosen by those seeking a non-invasive skin tightening option. |
If you are not a candidate for surgery or simply prefer a non-surgical option, the alternative treatments listed above may still be a good fit. While they do not offer the same long-term results as an upper eyelid lift, they can help reduce puffiness, smooth fine lines, and tighten the skin around the eyes with minimal recovery time.
Combining Procedures for the Best Results
Upper blepharoplasty is often performed on its own, but it can also be part of a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan.
Many patients benefit from combining an eyelid lift with a brow and forehead lift or facelift, depending on the position of the brows or the condition of the lower face and neck.
A brow lift addresses sagging of the forehead and brows, which can sometimes be mistaken for droopy eyelids. During your consultation, we will help you determine whether blepharoplasty alone or a combination of procedures will give you the most natural and balanced outcome.
Recovery and Healing
Recovery after upper eyelid surgery is generally well tolerated. Most patients experience mild swelling and bruising that peaks within the first few days and subsides over the following week.
You will be given detailed instructions for home care, which may include:
- Using cold compresses or ice packs to minimize swelling
- Sleeping with your head elevated
- Avoiding contact lenses for about one week
- Limiting strenuous activities until cleared by your surgeon
Some patients experience blurry vision in the first few days after surgery, which is typically normal and temporary. Sensitivity to light and mild discomfort are also common and usually resolve as healing progresses.
Some stitches will dissolve on their own, while external sutures are typically removed within 5 to 7 days.
Swelling and bruising can persist for about 7 to 10 days. Most people can return to normal activity within that timeframe and begin wearing makeup again after day 10.
Scars may remain slightly red for 3 to 6 months depending on individual healing, but this is often mild and easily covered with makeup. While natural wrinkling may recur over time, the fat that was removed or repositioned will not return, making results long-lasting.
What Makes Our Approach Different?
At Adara Surgical Institute, upper eyelid surgery is performed with the highest level of surgical precision and aesthetic sensitivity.
Dr. Hardeep Dhaliwal, a quadruple board-certified surgeon in both cosmetic and oral and maxillofacial surgery, brings a uniquely qualified skill set to every facial procedure.
With the help of advanced technologies like Vectra 3D imaging, we can simulate results and plan incisions with extraordinary accuracy.
From the moment you arrive, we focus on creating a relaxed and supportive experience before, during, and after surgery
ASI Medical SPa
Schedule a Consultation
If you are ready to explore your options, contact ASI Medical Spa in Issaquah, WA today. Call (425) 428-5888 or visit us at 6505 226th Pl SE STE #100 Issaquah, WA.
We are located in the heart of Issaquah, WA, in the back of Meadow Creek Business Center. We have plenty of parking and easy access into our building, which is conveniently located on the first floor and easily accessible for all patients.
Request an AppointmentFAQs About Upper Eyelid Lift
How painful is upper eyelid surgery?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after surgery. You’ll be given local anesthesia and a sedative to keep you relaxed and comfortable. Any soreness afterward is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
How long does it take to recover from upper eyelid surgery?
Initial recovery takes about 7 to 10 days. Most swelling and bruising subside within the first week. You may resume normal activities after one week, although full healing continues over the next few weeks. As swelling resolves, many patients also notice an improvement in their visual field, especially if excess skin was previously obstructing it.
What is the best age for upper eyelid surgery?
There is no “perfect” age, but most patients who seek eyelid surgery are in their 40s to 70s. The best time to consider surgery is when sagging or puffiness starts to interfere with your appearance or vision.
How much does upper eyelid blepharoplasty cost?
The cost of upper eyelid surgery varies based on the complexity of the case and whether it’s combined with other procedures. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed cost estimate and review financing options if needed.