Facial Plastic Surgery · Eyes
Blepharoplasty: The Guide to Eyelid Surgery
Types
Upper vs. Lower Blepharoplasty
Upper blepharoplasty removes excess skin (and sometimes fat) that causes hooding of the upper lid; when severe enough to block vision, it can be partly functional and insurance-eligible. Lower blepharoplasty addresses under-eye bags and puffiness, often repositioning rather than removing fat for a smoother, rested look.
Candidacy
Who Is a Candidate
Good candidates are bothered by hooded upper lids, under-eye bags, or a chronically tired appearance, are in good health, and have realistic expectations. An exam distinguishes excess skin from brow descent or other causes, since the right procedure depends on the actual anatomy.
Recovery
Recovery and Results
Bruising and swelling are typical for the first week to two; many patients return to normal activities and makeup within 10–14 days. Results are long-lasting — often a decade or more — though the eyes continue to age naturally. Combining with a brow lift or non-surgical treatments can enhance and prolong the effect.
Alternatives
Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Options
Mild concerns may respond to non-surgical options — under-eye filler for hollows, lasers or energy-based skin tightening — but true excess skin and prolapsed fat are corrected only by surgery. A physician can advise when non-surgical is enough and when it isn't.
Cost
What Blepharoplasty Costs
Costs vary by whether one or both lids are treated and by market; the ASPS surgeon's fee averages in the low thousands per area, with all-in costs higher after anesthesia and facility fees. Functional upper-lid surgery may be partially insurance-covered with documented vision obstruction.
Frequently asked
Common questions
How long does blepharoplasty recovery take?
Most bruising and swelling resolve within one to two weeks, and many patients return to normal activities and makeup within 10–14 days. Final refinement continues over the following weeks.
Is eyelid surgery covered by insurance?
Cosmetic blepharoplasty is not covered. Upper-lid surgery may be partially covered when excess skin is documented to obstruct vision — a visual field test is typically required.
How long do blepharoplasty results last?
Results are long-lasting, often a decade or more, though the eyes continue to age naturally. Good skin care and sun protection help prolong the outcome.
Does blepharoplasty fix dark circles?
It can improve puffiness and bags that cast shadows, but true pigment-based dark circles often need other treatments. An exam determines whether surgery, filler, or skin treatments fit your specific cause.
What's the difference between upper and lower eyelid surgery?
Upper blepharoplasty removes excess upper-lid skin causing hooding; lower blepharoplasty addresses under-eye bags and puffiness. Many patients have one or both depending on their concerns.
References
Sources
- 1.Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) Information — American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 2025.
- 2.Blepharoplasty — clinical overview — American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), 2024.
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