Eyelid surgery (or blepharoplasty) is a procedure that targets subtle but impactful elements of the eyelids. Even minor signs of aging can drastically alter how patients look and how they are perceived. Under-eye bags or dark circles can make you look tired, and sagging upper eyelids from excess skin and fat can make you look disinterested. The cosmetic eyelid surgery procedures at our practice revitalize any cosmetic or age-related concerns regarding the eyelids. The result: crafting a newly alert and youthful expression to the eyes.

Depending on the type of eyelid surgery you have, it can address concerns such as:

• Sagging skin or folds in the upper eyelids, including those that can cause vision problems
• Bags under the eyes
• Under-eye puffiness from fatty deposits
• Droopy eyelids (upper or lower)
• Lower eyelid that turns outward
• Fine lines around the lower eyelid
• Excess eyelid skin

Initial Consultation

The first consultation is like a two-way job interview. You are the one interviewing both the procedures and the surgeon. Likewise, the surgeon wants to learn about you to ensure you are matched with the right procedure. The foundation of a good consultation is communication. Ask and answer questions for a healthy flow of discussion. Some elements covered include:

• Medical history
• Before-and-after photos
• Benefits and limitations of procedure options
• What results you want (and what you can expect)
• Concerns about the lower or upper lid

Preparing for the Procedure

The days leading up to your eyelid surgery will involve a few preparation steps. These typically include easy (but crucial) tasks such as:

• Pausing blood-thinner medication
• Obtaining any needed bloodwork
• Arranging for someone to drive you home
• Avoiding smoking and excess alcohol

Day of the Procedure

• Duration: Varies based on procedure complexity, extended time for a combined surgery.
• Anesthesia: Dr. Chiu uses either local anesthesia or general anesthesia. Both options ensure the patient experiences no discomfort at all. General anesthesia is always administered under the supervision of a board-certified anesthesiologist.
• Incisions: All incisions are made as small as possible and kept within the eyelid’s natural creases. This hides any potential scarring from view.
• Adjustments: Based on your plan, Dr. Chiu operates by removing excess skin or fat while repositioning the eyelid’s tissues to a more youthful position.
• Wrapping Up: All incisions are closed. You are taken to a comfortable recovery room. You can rest here until you feel ready to return home with your arranged driver.

Eyelid surgery results may seem subtle at first, but the overall benefits of them are strongly felt in the years following surgery. Many patients report their friends and family commenting on how they look younger, more alert, more interested, and overall revitalized. While the surgery creates changes in real-time, it is important to remember that results appear gradually as you heal.

Key Notes About Eyelid Surgery Results

• Initial results are visible after swelling and bruising go down.
• Full results visible after all residual swelling fades.
• Both upper and lower eyelid surgery results last for years.
• Result duration benefits from good skin care and healthy lifestyle habits (sun protection, high-quality skin care).
• Incisions are carefully placed to hide any scarring.

Many patients combine multiple eyelid surgeries into a single procedure. Additionally, you can combine a blepharoplasty procedure with other options. During your consultation, Dr. Chiu can outline available options. He will discuss what the benefits or drawbacks of different combinations could be. The top procedures to combine with eyelid surgery include:

• Brow lift
• Facelift
• Chin and cheek augmentation
• Injectables treatments
• Neurotoxin®
• Juvederm®
• Radiesse®
• Restylane®

Dr. Chiu uses a variety of methods for eyelid surgery, depending on the patient’s aesthetic and function goals and their individual anatomy. The cost of eyelid surgery depends on these factors and is subject to other fees. At your consultation, Dr. Chiu will provide you with exact pricing details depending on your surgical plan.