Blepharoplasty

Do you have bags under your eyes or excess skin in your upper eyelids?

Blepharoplasty in Houston with facial plastic surgeon Dr. Raghu Athré can improve the look of both the upper and lower lids.

As a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Raghu Athré utilizes his expertise and meticulous technique to achieve natural-looking enhancements that harmonize with your unique facial features. Discover the Athré Facial Plastics difference.

Actual Patient
Actual Patient
5/5

"I've got nothing but compliments. A lot of people don't notice because my eyes look normal now, like they should look without the heavy upper lids."

– Chris, blepharoplasty patient

About Blepharoplasty

Other common terms for blepharoplasty include eye lift, eye lift surgery, or an eyelid lift.

The eyes are the windows to the soul, and a lot of the time they are the first thing that others notice about you. Unlike full facial rejuvenation, which often requires significant downtime, the eyes are one of the easiest and quickest areas to rejuvenate. Blepharoplasty, more commonly known as eyelid surgery, is a quick and simple procedure to rejuvenate the eye region and drastically improve the overall appearance of the face.

Dr. Athré is one of the best surgeons in the Houston area for eyelid surgery.

Key Takeways

  • Rejuvenates the eyes: Address concerns like drooping upper lids, under-eye puffiness, and wrinkles for a refreshed and youthful appearance.
  • Improved vision (in some cases): Upper blepharoplasty can address drooping eyelids that obstruct vision, enhancing your field of view.
  • Minimally invasive procedures: Both upper and lower blepharoplasty are outpatient procedures with a relatively quick recovery.
  • Long-lasting results: Enjoy a brighter and more youthful look for years to come.
  • Natural-looking enhancements: Dr. Athré prioritizes techniques that achieve subtle improvements, maintaining a balanced and harmonious appearance for your eyes.

About Blepharoplasty

What is a eyelid surgery?

As aging occurs, the thin skin around the eyelids begins to lose its elasticity and its ability to stretch.

As a result, the excess skin of the upper eyelid can begin to overhang and cause droopy eyelids or hooded eyelids. “Crow’s feet” or deep-set wrinkles can also appear around the eyes.

Other signs of aging, such as hollowing, bulging fat due to thinning skin, or excess skin around the lower eyelids and cheeks, can typically be seen around the lower eyelid. Upper and lower blepharoplasty surgery removes excess skin and fat to create a smoother, more refreshed appearance.

Surgical procedures to rejuvenate the eyes can be broken down into two categories:

  1. Upper Blepharoplasty: Upper blepharoplasty is a group of surgical procedures used to rejuvenate the upper eyelid. Another name for upper blepharoplasty is an eyelid lift or upper eyelid lift.
  2. Lower Blepharoplasty: Lower blepharoplasty deals with the rejuvenation of the lower eyelids and the interface between the lower eyelids and the cheeks. Frequently, the crow’s feet region is grouped together with the skin of the lower eyelid.

Upper Blepharoplasty (Upper Eyelid Surgery)

Upper blepharoplasty is one of the most common cosmetic surgical procedures.

 

It is performed to rejuvenate and enhance the upper eyelid region. With age, the upper eyelid can become droopy, hooded, or saggy. The excess skin can be so severe that it can affect the field of vision.

From a surgical standpoint, this is due to excess skin of the upper eyelid (dermatochalasis or dermatochalasia) and herniated fat. The upper eyelid has two fat compartments: the middle fat pad and the medial fat pad. As the skin and supporting tissues weaken and thin, these fat pads can bulge out causing increased fullness. Upper blepharoplasty surgery removes excess skin and fat to return the eyelids back to a youthful and natural look. In the surgery, an incision is made in the natural crease of the upper eyelid.

Despite being a common procedure, upper blepharoplasty is complicated and does not have a one-size-fits-all approach. Dr. Athré considers numerous factors, such as the natural shape of the eye, ethnic background, and skin type, to modify the eyelid surgery to obtain the best post-operative result and minimize scarring.

Prior to the procedure, the functionality of the eye to open and close properly as well as its ability to crease properly are carefully examined. Most upper blepharoplasty procedures are done under local anesthesia and take approximately one hour. Full recovery and a return to normal activity within a week after the procedure is common.

To see an upper eyelid blepharoplasty surgery,click here. Please note, the video shows actual surgical footage of an upper blepharoplasty procedure.

Click here to learn more about Upper Blepharoplasty.

Lower Blepharoplasty (Lower Eyelid Surgery)

Lower eyelid surgery is also called a lower blepharoplasty.

Lower eyelid surgery has two main objectives:

  1. Address and fat bags or fat bulging of the lower eyelid region.
  2. Address the excess skin of the lower eyelid.

There are two main techniques for performing lower blepharoplasty: the subciliary approach and the transconjunctival approach.

The subciliary approach uses an incision along the lower lash line, and the transconjunctival approach makes an incision in the wet, inner surface of the lower eyelid. Dr. Athré is well-versed in both of these approaches and will customize the procedure depending on what is best for your particular case.

Most lower eyelid blepharoplasty surgeries are performed under local anesthesia with oral sedation. They can also be performed under general anesthesia based on patient preference. Most lower eyelid blepharoplasty patients can return to daily life activities within 24 hours and are able to wear makeup and return to work within 7-8 days after surgery.

Click here to learn more about Lower Blepharoplasty.

Non-Surgical Approaches to Blepharoplasty

Not smoking and not rubbing the area around your eyes can significantly help prevent the early onset or wrinkles and under eye sagging.

Also, sunglasses while outside will prevent photodamage to the thin skin around the eyes and prevent squinting.

Chronic squinting in bright sun will increase the prevalence and formation of fine lines in the crow's feet area and in the lower eyelid skin.

A medical-grade sunscreen will also prevent sun damage to the thin eyelid skin.

The next level of rejuvenation is to use medical-grade skin care products.

The Athré Skin Rx Eye Cream is formulated with retinol and hyaluronic acid to reduce fine lines and plump tissues.

For patients who wish to drastically reduce the appearance of wrinkles around the eye area, Botox may be appropriate. Botox, Dysport, and other neuromodulators are excellent for softening the fine lines in the crow's feet region. Botox may also provide a slight lift of the eyebrows, causing the amount of excess skin on the upper eyelid to appear less significant.

Fillers can help plump up the lower eyelid and cheek area to reduce the appearance of lower eyelid bags. Dr. Athré has a specific filler procedure just for this area called Ocu Rx™.

Finally, chemical peels and laser resurfacing can thicken thinned tissues and remove much of the lines and wrinkles in the area around the eye.

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About Asian Eyelid Surgery

Asian eyelid surgery is a type of upper blepharoplasty that specifically addresses the concerns of Asian patients.

Asian patients may have one or more of the following upper eyelid characteristics that separate them from patients with other ethnic backgrounds:

  • Lack of an upper eyelid crease (no double eyelid)
  • Partial upper eyelid crease
  • Partial upper eyelid crease with multiple mini creases
  • Possible lack of a supratarsal crease or “double eyelid”
  • Epicanthal fold and the medial portion of the eyelid as it contacts the nose
  • Fullness and excess fat of middle and lateral portions of the upper eyelid

These characteristics can add complexity to eyelid surgery in Asian patients. These patients need more detailed analysis to prevent over-Westernizing their eyelids, which can cause excessive and possible irreversible scarring.

Asian eyelid surgery can be done to achieve a natural crease of the upper eyelid and remove multiple creases to create one, singular dominant crease.

Benefits of Blepharoplasty

With blepharoplasty Houston patients are offered a range of benefits that extend far beyond aesthetics. Here's a closer look at how eyelid surgery can enhance your appearance, well-being, and even your vision.

Restore a Youthful and Refreshed Look

The eyes are a central feature of the face, and their appearance can significantly impact how we perceive age and energy. Drooping eyelids, under-eye puffiness, and wrinkles can create a tired or aged look. Eyelid surgery addresses these concerns by strategically addressing upper eyelid drooping, under-eye puffiness, and wrinkles and fine lines.

Improve Field of Vision

In some cases, drooping upper eyelids can obstruct your peripheral vision. Eyelid surgery, particularly upper blepharoplasty, can address this issue by lifting the eyelid and improving your field of view.

Enhanced Confidence and Self-esteem

By restoring a more youthful and refreshed eye area, eyelid surgery can boost your confidence and help you feel empowered in your everyday life.

Natural-looking Results

At Athré Facial Plastics, achieving natural-looking results is paramount. Dr. Athré prioritizes techniques that subtly address concerns in the upper and lower eyelid areas. The final outcome complements your facial features, maintaining a balanced and harmonious appearance.

Long-Lasting Results

Modern eyelid surgery techniques offer long-lasting results. While individual results may vary, the effects of a successful eyelid surgery can be enjoyed for several years.

Faster Recovery

Eyelid surgery is a minimally invasive procedure with a relatively quick recovery. Dr. Athré utilizes advanced techniques to minimize downtime and discomfort.

Upper Blepharoplasty Pricing

Upper blepharoplasty, often called an upper eyelid lift, is a cosmetic procedure that rejuvenates the appearance of tired, drooping eyelids.

Over time, the skin around the eyes can lose elasticity, resulting in hooded or sagging upper lids that may impact appearance and, in some cases, even vision. Upper blepharoplasty removes excess skin and subtly tightens the area to restore a refreshed, naturally youthful look without an "operated" appearance.

This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, making it a comfortable option with minimal downtime.

Upper Blepharoplasty

$3,750 Starting Range

  • + Facility Fees ($1,000)
  • + Anesthesia (Local $1,000)

Lower Blepharoplasty Pricing

Lower blepharoplasty, or lower eyelid surgery, targets under-eye bags, puffiness, and sagging skin to help restore a refreshed, youthful appearance.

As we age, the skin and tissues around the eyes lose elasticity and volume, often leading to persistent bags or hollows that can make us look tired or older than we feel. Lower blepharoplasty focuses on removing or repositioning fat, tightening loose skin, and smoothing the under-eye area, all while preserving a natural, rejuvenated look.

This procedure is typically performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on individual needs, with most patients able to return to daily activities within 10 to 14 days.

Lower Blepharoplasty

$4,000 Starting Range

  • + Facility Fees ($1,000)
  • + Anesthesia (Local $1,000)

Treatment Areas

Blepharoplasty addresses a range of age-related concerns.

What conditions does a eyelid surgery address?

Eyelid surgery, encompassing both upper and lower blepharoplasty, addresses a range of age-related concerns in the delicate eye area:

  • Drooping upper eyelids (ptosis): Excess skin or weakened muscles can cause the upper eyelid to droop, obstructing vision and creating a tired appearance. Eyelid surgery removes excess skin and tightens underlying muscles to lift the eyelid, improving both vision and aesthetics.
  • Under-eye puffiness: Bulging fat pads and loose skin contribute to under-eye puffiness, creating a fatigued look. Eyelid surgery can address these concerns by carefully removing or repositioning excess fat and tightening loose skin for a smoother and more youthful under-eye area.
  • Wrinkles and fine lines: The thin skin around the eyes is prone to wrinkles and fine lines.

While blepharoplasty may not completely eliminate these, it can significantly improve their appearance.

Actual Patient
Actual Patient

Ideal Candidates for Blepharoplasty

The perfect candidate for eyelid surgery are individuals concerned with:

Sagging upper eyelids
Under-eye puffiness
Fine lines around the eyes
Drooping upper eyelids that impact vision

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Athré to discuss your goals and determine if this procedure aligns with your desires.

Blepharoplasty Recovery

Blepharoplasty patients can usually return to work after 7-8 days.

After eyelid surgery, you will have some bruising and swelling around the eyelids. Dr. Athré will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions and check your healing at post-operative appointments. Blepharoplasty patients can usually return to work after 7-8 days. The appearance of the eye area will continue to improve over several months as residual swelling diminishes and the tissues settle into their optimal position.

Blepharoplasty Results:

Blepharoplasty offers long-lasting improvements. While individual results may vary, the effects of a successful surgery can be enjoyed for 10-15 years or even longer. This longevity depends on factors like your anatomy, lifestyle choices, and sun exposure. Dr. Athré prioritizes techniques that achieve subtle and natural-looking improvements.

Blepharoplasty FAQ's

See below for frequently asked questions about blepharoplasty.

Patient Review

"I've got nothing but compliments. A lot of people don't notice because my eyes look normal now, like they should look without the heavy upper lids."

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Care You Can Trust

Call 281-214-9674 to schedule your consultation or complete the form to receive a callback.

Dr. Raghu Athré combines empathetic care, expert treatment, and innovative solutions 
to deliver a personalized experience and extraordinary facial plastic surgery results. Schedule your in-office or online consultation with Dr. Athré to begin your transformation with a top plastic surgeon in Houston.

"To anyone contemplating a procedure, go in for a consult and just do it!"

Request a personal consultation with Dr. Raghu Athré.