Upper vs Lower Blepharoplasty: Understanding The Difference & Who Needs What

Can Eyelid Surgery Refresh Your Look?

Aging around the eyes can play a major role in how young a person looks. Everything from crow’s feet to droopy eyelids and under-eye bags can give off a tired appearance no matter how well-rested a person is. Blepharoplasty is focused on removing and repositioning skin, muscle, and fat to achieve a more youthful look. However, upper and lower blepharoplasty target distinct areas around the eyes to rejuvenate in a natural way.

Rejuvenating the upper eyes

When the upper eyelid begins to droop down too far, obstructing eyesight and affecting confidence, an upper blepharoplasty may be the right next step. The vision obstruction is typically caused by excess skin or protruding fat pads. For individuals with naturally hooded eyes the procedure carefully removes that heavy, overhanging fold of skin to create a more refreshed look.

Targeting under the eye

A lower blepharoplasty focuses on correcting the delicate area below the eye, helping correct under-eye bags, puffiness, and hollowing. Unlike an upper blepharoplasty which can improve functional issues, a lower blepharoplasty is often chosen for cosmetic rejuvenation. The procedure smoothly transitions the lower lid into the upper cheek by removing or repositioning excess fat and tightening skin.

What are the surgical risks?

While the procedure is relatively safe, risks are always a concern when undergoing surgery. In rare cases, an upper blepharoplasty can remove too much skin, preventing the eyelid from completely closing. For a lower blepharoplasty, the risks can include excessive eye exposure, double vision, and damage to the tear ducts. When the procedures are combined, the risk of side effects, asymmetry in results, and trauma to the area can increase.

Can the procedures be combined?

While undergoing procedures back-to-back can increase the intensity of localized trauma and recovery, combining procedures may be a more practical and effective option for some patients. Surgeons may be better able to create balanced proportions around the eye area. Additionally, patients only need to go through a single recovery period and round of anesthesia.

Enhancing your results

Eyelid surgery can do wonders to turn back time, but other surgical and non-surgical procedures can provide additional benefits. A brow lift may help with upper eyelid drooping alongside an upper blepharoplasty. A facelift and neck lift can rejuvenate the entire face and neck, not just the eyes, to create a more harmonious and youthful look.

Turning back time with surgery

An upper and lower blepharoplasty can significantly improve the appearance and function of the eyelids by removing obstructions and wrinkles. A complete eyelid rejuvenation can be transformative, helping people look more rested and youthful. Rather than altering natural facial structures, the treatment simply restores the bright, open look from years past.