Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

What is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty (commonly referred to as eyelid surgery) can improve the appearance of your upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both. Eyelid surgery helps to correct sagging eyelids, remove fatty pouches beneath the eyes and remove excess skin from the upper eyelids, giving you a more youthful and refreshed appearance.  This procedure can easily be combined with any other facial procedure such as a brow lift or a facelift for even more dramatic results.

How is Blepharoplasty performed?

Blepharoplasty is an outpatient surgical procedure performed at our facility, Northbrook Plastic Surgery. A fine incision is placed in the crease of the upper eyelid to allow repositioning of fat deposits, tightening of muscles and tissue and/or removal of excess skin creating a firmer upper eyelid contour. For the lower eyelids an incision can be hidden inside the lower eyelid. Through this incision, fat is redistributed or removed and sagging muscles are tightened. Another option is making an incision just below the lash line for removal of excess skin from the lower lid. This procedure takes approximately 1-2 hours, but may vary depending on the patient.

What to expect during the recovery period:

• Mild bruising and swelling around the eyelids are normal after surgery and may last a few days
• Minor discomfort and dry eyes may occur, both can be controlled with medication
• No contacts for 2 weeks
• Makeup can be applied after 10 days
• Return to light activity within a few days
• Resume full activities 3-4 weeks after surgery
• Avoid direct sunlight for at least 4 weeks
• Sutures will be removed 3-5 days after surgery
• Hairline scars in the natural contour of the eyelids will fade in approximately 2 months

In private practice since 1992, Dr. Michael A. Epstein has received critical acclaim for his exceptional results and advanced surgical techniques.  An active member of the prestigious American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, he has been featured on numerous television programs and quoted in dozens of newspapers and magazines nationwide. A trusted resource who is highly respected by both the media and his peers, Dr. Epstein’s training, education and surgical skills have made him one of Chicagoland’s leading and most gifted plastic surgeons. His offices are in Northbrook, Illinois.