Blepharoplasty

During the surgery, local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia ensures you feel no pain. After surgery, patients typically experience mild swelling, tightness, and a sensation of dryness or irritation, but significant pain is uncommon. If needed, most discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or mild prescription medication. Cold compresses and keeping your head elevated also help alleviate swelling. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days with minimal discomfort. 

Most patients will need four to five appointments throughout the eyelid surgery process. It begins with an initial consultation, during which Dr. Lugo will create a surgical plan. A pre-operative appointment is scheduled three to four weeks before surgery to review your medical history, provide detailed instructions, and ensure you are fully prepared. On the day of surgery, you will undergo a brief pre-surgical review prior to the procedure. Post-operative care includes a follow-up within the first week to monitor healing and remove any sutures if necessary. Additional follow-ups at 1 month and 3 to 6 months ensure optimal healing and long-lasting results.

While some improvement is noticeable within 1-2 weeks, final results take several months to develop fully. Initial swelling and bruising subside significantly within 10-14 days, allowing most patients to return to daily activities. By 4-6 weeks, the eyelids appear smoother, more lifted, and naturally refreshed. However, residual swelling may take 3 to 6 months to resolve completely. Once fully healed, the results are long-lasting, with many patients enjoying the look for years to come.

Blepharoplasty incisions are strategically placed within the fine folds and creases of the eyelids, making any scarring virtually invisible once healed. For upper blepharoplasty, the incision is hidden in the natural eyelid crease, while for lower blepharoplasty, it is either placed just below the lash line or inside the lower eyelid, leaving no external scar. Initially, scars may appear slightly pink, but they fade significantly over the next few months until they blend with the surrounding skin. 

Light activities, such as taking gentle walks, can be resumed within a few days after surgery. However, strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and bending over should be postponed for at least 2-3 weeks to prevent swelling and complications. Activities that increase blood pressure—such as running, weightlifting, or yoga—can exacerbate bruising and slow healing, so it’s best to ease back into workouts gradually. Most patients can return to full exercise routines after 4-6 weeks, depending on their healing progress.

A mommy makeover involves combining surgical options that can help women regain their figures. Upper blepharoplasty or lower blepharoplasty eyelid surgery can be included in a mommy makeover to minimize the appearance of sagging eyelids, bags under the eyes, and crow’s feet. This can help women look and feel more confident after childbirth.

Yes, a blepharoplasty can be combined with other aesthetic procedures to achieve a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. During a consultation, Dr. Lugo can recommend the most suitable treatment plan to meet each patient’s individual needs and goals.

As with any surgical undertaking, blepharoplasty involves certain potential complications, including infection, bleeding, or changes in vision. However, these risks can be reduced by selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon and adhering to post-operative instructions carefully.

Selecting the right plastic surgeon is critical for achieving natural-looking results. When researching for the best eyelid surgery plastic surgeon in Athens, GA, look for a board-certified provider with extensive experience in facial procedures. Dr. Liana Lugo is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and is a member of ASPS and ASAPS, ensuring the highest standards of safety and expertise. Reading patient reviews, viewing before-and-after photos, and scheduling a consultation to discuss your goals can help you determine if a surgeon is the right fit. 

The duration of a blepharoplasty procedure depends on the extent of the surgery and whether it is performed on the upper or lower eyelids or both. For example, on average, an upper blepharoplasty takes about 1-2 hours to complete, and it can be done under local anesthesia. 

Eyelid surgery can help fade the appearance of dark circles if they are caused by other factors, such as bags on the lower eyelids casting shadows. However, if dark circles are caused by other factors, such as genetics or allergies, additional treatments may be necessary.

Most patients can return to work and other normal activities within a few weeks after undergoing a blepharoplasty. Full recovery time can vary depending on the nature of the procedure. During the recovery period, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort.

The outcome of a blepharoplasty can be long-lasting, but it can be affected by the natural aging process and lifestyle factors such as smoking or excessive sun exposure. Patients can help preserve their results by following a healthy lifestyle and skincare regimen.

The incisions made during a blepharoplasty are typically concealed within the natural creases of the eyelids, so any scarring is usually minimal and barely visible.

Ideal candidates for facial aesthetic treatments are those with relatively healthy lifestyles who avoid smoking and are without serious eye conditions (if considering upper or lower blepharoplasty). If you’re tired of looking older than you feel and want the best care and results, visit top board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lugo.