Upper Eyelid Surgery, also known as Upper Blepharoplasty is a procedure to rejuvenate your upper eyelid appearance. With aging, the upper eyelid skin can sag, causing a tired, hooded appearance. Fortunately, there is a safe and effective way to remove this excess upper eyelid skin with an upper blepharoplasty (upper eyelid lift). With an upper blepharoplasty, the excess skin is removed, leaving a sharp and youthful upper eyelid crease. This procedure is done by our expert Denver facial plastic surgeons Dr. Brent Smith and Dr. Cory Bovenzi. They are experts in this area and use incredibly meticulous suturing techniques so your incisions heal beautifully. In fact, after healing, it is hard to even find these incisions because they heal so well in your natural existing eyelid crease.
This surgery removes the excess skin from the upper eyelid area and can also remove extra fat in certain cases where that is needed. Commonly, if extra fat needs to be removed this comes from the medial aspect of your eyelid (closer to your nose). Fortunately, whether or not you need fat removed you will have the same well-hidden incision.
Indications: Hooded upper eyelids
Anesthesia: Twilight (local is possible for select patients)
Surgery Type: Outpatient
Surgery time: 1 hour (often less)
Downtime: 1.5-2 weeks
Removal of Stitches: 10 days
Technique: Removal of excess skin and/or fat of the upper eyelid via an incision hidden in the upper eyelid crease
Complementary Procedures: Browlift surgery can be helpful for patients that have hooding caused by low-set eyebrows
Cost: The cost depends on your particular anatomy, whether the surgery is a revision or primary, and whether there are special considerations for your case. To get a quote, you can set up a free consultation online with one of our Denver facial plastic surgeons or give us a call at (303) 741-2211
Upper blepharoplasty, or upper eyelid surgery, offers a range of benefits for those looking to refresh their appearance and improve vision. As we age, the skin around the eyes can lose elasticity, leading to drooping eyelids that may obstruct vision and create a tired look. By removing excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids, upper blepharoplasty can rejuvenate your eyes, giving you a more alert and youthful appearance.
An upper eyelid life not only enhances facial aesthetics but can also address functional concerns. For those experiencing vision impairment due to sagging eyelids, upper eyelid lifts can restore a clearer field of vision, contributing to overall comfort and quality of life. An upper eyelid surgery provides long-lasting results with minimal downtime.
Patients who may benefit from an upper blepharoplasty often show signs of aging around the upper eyelid area, such as excess skin, fat, or sagging tissue. Before considering surgery, patients should schedule a consultation to meet with our board-certified facial plastic surgeons in Denver for a thorough consultation. Aging in the upper eyelid region can result from various factors, including loose skin, bulging fat, or the descent of the brow, often requiring a tailored approach to address these concerns effectively.
In many cases, candidates for upper blepharoplasty may also benefit from a brow lift, as sagging of the brow can contribute to lateral eyelid hooding, or drooping skin near the outer corner of the eye. When this occurs, a brow lift (forehead lift) can help lift and smooth the brow area, enhancing the overall results of an upper blepharoplasty. Depending on the patient’s goals and anatomy, these procedures can be performed together in our Denver Facial Plastic Surgery Clinic. Combining these procedures can enhance overall facial harmony and achieve a more refreshed, youthful appearance.
Upper blepharoplasty is a straightforward outpatient procedure designed to address drooping or excess skin on the upper eyelids. The surgery typically lasts under an hour and provides long-lasting results, with many patients enjoying the benefits for over a decade. Most patients experience minimal discomfort1, often managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
The recovery process from upper blepharoplasty usually takes around 1.5 to 2 weeks. During this time, most swelling and any potential bruising will subside. Sutures are typically removed approximately 10 days post-surgery. After suture removal, it is important to avoid rubbing the eyes or applying pressure to the area, as the incisions will continue to heal. Following these guidelines helps ensure optimal recovery and preserves the aesthetic results of your upper eyelid surgery.
When choosing the right upper blepharoplasty surgeon in Denver, it’s crucial to seek a specialist with extensive experience in facial cosmetic surgery. At Smith Cosmetic Surgery, our team is led by board-certified surgeons with a strong reputation for delivering natural, lasting results. Look for a surgeon who has a deep understanding of facial anatomy and can tailor the procedure to your unique needs. Patient reviews, before-and-after photos, and a personalized consultation are essential steps in your decision-making process. Trust a practice like Smith Cosmetic Surgery that prioritizes patient safety, clear communication, and individualized care to help you achieve a refreshed, youthful appearance.
1 Nwagu, Uche & Bovenzi, Cory & Sagheer, S. & Yan, Brian & Krein, Howard & Heffelfinger, Ryan. (2020). Opioid Prescribing Practices for Postoperative Patients in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 10.13140/RG.2.2.14791.47526.
