Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions related to eyelid surgery.

Q: Isn't eyelid surgery part of a facelift procedure?

A: Eyelid surgery is a distinct procedure referred to as a blepharoplasty. It is the original "cosmetic" procedure and is still the most common, with about 50,000 persons having the procedure in the United States each year. People look older and more tired once aging skin creates baggy or puffy eyelids, and since this occurs much earlier than wrinkles in the face, it is common for people to elect eyelid surgery years before they need a facelift.

Q: I am in my late 60s. Can I still have eyelid surgery?

A: There are several factors such as age, condition of skin, and general health that are involved in the decision as to whether eyelid surgery is appropriate for you. Generally, in younger persons, blepharoplasty is performed to remove fatty tissue only. In older persons, loss of skin tone may require removing excess skin. If you are in good health without serious eye problems, your age alone should not keep you from having this procedure.

Q: I am of Asian descent. Is the procedure for eyelid surgery different?

A: You need to find a doctor who is familiar with the unique anatomy of the Asian eyelid. It is important to undergo an Asian and not a Western blepharoplasty to match your other features. Only 50 percent of Asians have eyelid creases, and a Western lid crease and Western removal of fat may look very unnatural on an Asian face. Some persons who do not have an eyelid crease may end up with one after surgery anyway, because the scar in the eyelid often causes an eyelid crease to form. If this does happen, the incision needs to be placed in the natural crease lines seen in Asian eyelids.

Q: Will the results of eyelid surgery last?

A: Generally speaking, the benefits of a blepharoplasty are long lasting, and few people need to have the procedure a second time. Fat that has been removed will not come back. However, the skin will have a tendency to stretch again, and the procedure cannot alter or retard the natural aging process.

Q: Can eyelid surgery eliminate the dark color on the lower lids?

A: No. Only makeup can hide the dark shadows often seen under the eyes.