Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
If your eyes constantly look tired, aged, or stressed no matter what you’re actually feeling, you’re not alone. Signs of aging around the eyes can belie your emotions and make you look older and more exhausted, despite feeling energetic and youthful. To restore a more lively appearance in the upper face, Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery and MedSpa offers upper and lower blepharoplasty to smooth puffiness and skin inelasticity in the eyelid contours. Blepharoplasty can be an excellent procedure to regain a brighter and more youthful look, while addressing concerns such as “hooding,” under-eye bags, dark circles, and drooping eyelids.
The skin and tissue around the eyelids is extremely delicate and requires the skill of an experienced double board-certified facial plastic surgeon to achieve a good result. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Atlanta-area practice to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mark Beaty.
Explore Topics On This Page:
- What is Eyelid Surgery?
- Effects of Aging
- Eyelid Surgery Benefits
- Eyelid Surgery Candidates
- Eyelid Surgery Procedure
- Eyelid Surgery Results
- Eyelid Surgery Recovery
- Duration of Eyelid Surgery
- Eyelid Surgery Scars
- Eyelid Surgery Downtime
- Eyelid Surgery Longevity
- Eyelid Surgery Experience
- Upper vs. Lower Blepharoplasty
- Complements to Eyelid Surgery
- Additional Blepharoplasty FAQs
- Why Choose Us for Blepharoplasty
What Is Eyelid Surgery?
Commonly known as eyelid surgery, blepharoplasty improves the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. Eyelid surgery removes excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids to decrease puffiness below the eyes, reduce wrinkles around the eyelids, and correct upper lid drooping. By addressing these common concerns, the procedure can help restore a more alert, refreshed, and youthful appearance to the eyes.
How Does Aging Affect the Eyelids?
As we age, our skin gradually loses its elasticity. Paired with the constant pull from gravity, this loss in elasticity causes excessive skin to collect around the upper lids, leading to drooping eyelids. Additionally, underlying muscle laxity and the loosening of the skin can prompt lower-lid aging.
What Are the Benefits of Eyelid Surgery?
Blepharoplasty can brighten the upper face by improving the appearance of:
- Upper eyelid “hooding,” wherein excess skin droops into a patient’s field of vision
- Puffiness in the upper and lower eyelids, leading to an aged or fatigued look
- Dark circles and shadows underneath the lower lids
- Fine lines around the eyes, including crow’s feet
Eyelid surgery also offers the benefits of inconspicuous post-operative scarring and long-lasting results. The rejuvenation achieved from blepharoplasty alone can provide a beautiful outcome, but the results are often further refined when eyelid surgery is combined with a brow lift for patients who would like to correct a drooping brow.
Who Is a Candidate for Blepharoplasty?
Physically healthy men and women ages 30 and older who are interested in fighting the effects of aging skin are the best candidates for eyelid surgery. Blepharoplasty patients should have healthy facial tissue and muscles as well as realistic expectations. Individuals with serious eye complications, pre-existing medical conditions, or active diseases are not good candidates for this procedure.
Ideal candidates may include individuals who:
- Notice sagging or “hooding” of the upper eyelids
- Experience puffiness or bags under the eyes
- Feel that their eyes make them look older or more tired than they feel
- Want to improve symmetry or smooth fine lines around the eyes
- Do not smoke or are willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
Eyelid Surgery / Blepharoplasty Before and After
Before 
After 
Before 
After What Can I Expect During Eyelid Surgery?
Every eyelid surgery at Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery and MedSpa is customized to meet the unique needs of the patient. During your consultation, Dr. Beaty will perform a detailed assessment of your eye area and discuss whether upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or a combination of both will help you achieve your desired outcome. He will explain the recommended surgical approach, answer your questions, and ensure you feel fully informed about your options. Here’s what you can expect from each procedure
Click Here To Watch Upper Eyelid Surgery Performed at Our Office
Upper Eyelid Surgery
Incisions will be placed in the natural crease of the upper eyelid, so they will remain hidden when the eyes are open. Any excess fat or skin will then be removed. Because of the strategic placement of the incision, all signs of surgery are generally nonexistent once the healing process is complete. *Individual results may vary!
Lower Eyelid Surgery
In order to remove excess skin from the lower eyelid, an incision will be placed just below the lower lash line. Dr. Beaty may also use a transconjunctival incision, or an incision hidden on the inside of the lower eyelid, as an additional way to remove excess fat and correct lower eyelid puffiness.*Individual results may vary!
Eyelid surgery is an outpatient procedure that is performed by double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Beaty in the operating room. In selected patients, upper blepharoplasty may be performed in the office under local anesthesia. The blepharoplasty procedure typically lasts anywhere from one to two hours.
When Can Patients Expect to See Results from Eyelid Surgery?*
Patients typically begin to see noticeable blepharoplasty results within several weeks. Although eyelid surgery will not stop the aging process, the results are long lasting. While upper eyelid surgery may need to be repeated after 10-20 years, the effects of lower eyelid surgery can last a lifetime.
What Can I Expect From Recovery After Blepharoplasty?
Both lower and upper eyelid surgeries are minimally invasive and require little recovery time. After a blepharoplasty procedure, Dr. Beaty will loosely cover the patient’s eyes with gauze. In addition, cold compresses and lubricating ointment may be applied. Patients may experience bruising, swelling, dry eyes, or irritation, but these symptoms typically fade within a week or two following the procedure.
Your surgeon will prescribe eye drops and ointments to keep the eyes moist during the recovery period. Normal activities can be resumed one to two weeks following the procedure.
“WOW! 7 months ago I had a blepharoplasty- Lower - external, canthoplasty , facial fat graphing and ultherapy face procedure and I must say that at 60 I am Overwhelmed with how much more confidence it has given me to be in front of my audience. It all looks very natural, and Dr. Beaty and his team went overboard to make sure that I was confident and comfortable all the way through the journey. Would I do it again? YES! What took me so long? IDK! Dr Beauty And his staff are truly 5 Star, kind, considerate and professional! I would highly recommend him for any of your plastic surgery needs!”
“First, I myself am a surgeon and Dr. Beaty was recommended to me by a retired facial plastic surgeon I know. Dr. Beaty's care has been impeccable, from his pre-op explanations to the operative experience and post-op care. I am very happy with the results of my surgery...it is exactly what I was hoping for. And his staff is stunning...you will feel like family walking in the door. From the front desk, to nursing, to the pre-op coordinator and billing, they are caring, friendly, competent and efficient. I'm delighted to provide this well-deserved, very positive review!!”
How Long Does Blepharoplasty Take?
Patients can opt to have surgery done on either the upper or lower eyelid, or both. For that reason, the surgery can take from 45 minutes to two hours.
Will I Have Scarring After Eyelid Surgery?
On the upper eyelid, Dr. Beaty makes the incision in the natural crease of the eyelid. This hides any future scarring. In the lower eyelid, they make the incision just below the eyelash or on the inside of the eyelid, depending on your circumstances. Neither option is visible. Scarring isn’t typically an issue with blepharoplasty.
When Can I Return to Normal Activities After Blepharoplasty?
During your consultation with Dr. Beaty, he will stress the importance of being diligent with the use of your cold compress at the beginning of your recovery. This will eliminate much of your swelling. Getting back to normal after eyelid surgery is not usually a long process. For the first week you need to avoid elevating blood pressure to your face. This means you shouldn’t bend over deeply, and you shouldn’t lift any heavy weight or strenuously exercise. But for most patients, they’re pretty much back to normal in a week or so. You may need to miss 3-5 days of work.
How Long Do Eyelid Surgery Results Last?
The changes made by Dr. Beaty with these surgeries are permanent. The tissue they remove, the fat that is repositioned, the levator muscles that are tightened — these are all permanent changes.
Unfortunately, these surgeries can’t stop the aging process. That’s just a fact of life. But your eyelids will never again sag to the degree or extent that merited you to come to see us at Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery and MedSpa. The consensus is that blepharoplasty takes about 10 years off the patient’s facial age. Any future aging will start from a younger place. You’ll enjoy your younger-looking eyes for the rest of your life.
How Painful Is Recovery After Eyelid Surgery?
Most patients report that recovery after eyelid surgery is relatively quick and comfortable, which is another great aspect of eyelid surgery with our team. We can even perform many upper eyelid procedures right in our location in Atlanta. We do provide prescription pain medication, but many of our patients don’t feel it is necessary, instead feeling that over-the-counter options sufficiently handle the discomfort.
How Do Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty Differ?
The goals of upper and lower blepharoplasty are the same — to rejuvenate the eyes, but there can be differences between the two eyelids. The main differences between the surgery on the upper and lower eyelids are what needs to be addressed and where the incisions will be placed. For the upper eyelid, Dr. Beaty places the incision within the natural crease in the eyelid, making it virtually invisible. In the lower eyelid, the incision is made along the eyelash line or inside the lower eyelid.
Upper eyelid surgery usually focuses on removing or tightening sagging skin. In more extreme cases, this is called hooding. Dr. Beaty removes skin and tightens underlying muscles around the eye to firm up the area. Many of these upper eyelid procedures can be done in the office.
Lower eyelid surgery often seeks to correct puffiness under the eyes. These under-eye bags are caused by excess skin and tissue in the area. In some patients, their lower eyelids can droop to the degree that the white part of the eye under the iris becomes visible, requiring tightening of the lid.
Can I Combine Eyelid Surgery with Other Procedures?
Blepharoplasty is a great rejuvenation procedure because the eyes hold such a prominent place in our facial anatomy. Most people say the eyes are the first thing they notice when meeting a new person.
Still, many of our patients from around the Atlanta area seek broader rejuvenation, so they are interested in combining procedures. If they want to address sagging and descending brows, a brow lift is a good complement to eyelid surgery. That way the face from the eyes to the hairline is rejuvenated. A facelift or Dr. Beaty’s signature ProLift™ can extend the rejuvenation from the eyes down through the mid to lower face. Rhinoplasty could be combined with eyelid surgery, as well.
If you’re interested in a wider range of rejuvenation, let’s talk about it during your consultation with Dr. Beaty, and we can consider complementary procedures.
Additional Blepharoplasty Frequently Asked Questions
Is Blepharoplasty Covered by Insurance?
Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery and MedSpa does not accept insurance. For patients whose upper eyelid concerns significantly impact vision, partial coverage may be worth exploring with your ophthalmologist. We are happy to provide the necessary CPT codes and documentation for patients who wish to submit a claim to their insurance independently.
How Do I Prepare for Eyelid Surgery?
Preparing for eyelid surgery is an important step in ensuring a smooth procedure and recovery. Patients are typically advised to avoid medications and supplements that can increase bleeding, such as aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs, for a period before surgery. Smoking should be stopped well in advance, as it can interfere with healing. If you wear contact lenses, you will need to switch to glasses for a short time after surgery. Dr. Beaty will provide personalized pre-operative instructions so you feel fully prepared going into your procedure.
Will Eyelid Surgery Affect My Vision?
Eyelid surgery is designed to improve the appearance of the eyes, and in some cases it can actually enhance vision if excess upper eyelid skin was obstructing your field of view. The procedure does not change the structure of the eye itself. Temporary blurred vision may occur immediately after surgery due to ointments or swelling, but this typically resolves quickly as the eyes heal.
Will Blepharoplasty Change My Eye Shape Or Expression?
When performed with precision and a conservative approach, blepharoplasty is intended to refresh your appearance, not change the natural shape of your eyes. The goal is to reduce heaviness, puffiness, or sagging while maintaining your unique features and facial expressions. Most patients find they look more rested and alert rather than "different." Dr. Beaty's meticulous technique ensures your results feel like a younger, more refreshed version of you.
When Can I Wear Contact Lenses After Surgery?
Patients are usually advised to wait about one to two weeks before resuming contact lens wear, depending on how the eyes are healing. During early recovery, the eyelids may be sensitive and it is important to avoid unnecessary irritation. Dr. Beaty will evaluate your healing at follow-up appointments and let you know when it is safe and comfortable to resume wearing contacts.
Will My Blepharoplasty Results Look Natural?
Yes, natural-looking results are a primary goal of eyelid surgery at Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery and MedSpa. By carefully removing or repositioning excess skin and fat, the procedure enhances the eye area without creating an overdone appearance. As swelling subsides in the weeks following surgery, your results should continue to refine, revealing a smoother, more refreshed look that still feels like you.
Why Choose Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery & MedSpa for Your Eyelid Lift?
When it comes to rejuvenating the delicate eye area, experience, precision, and an artistic eye are essential. At Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery and MedSpa, your eyelid lift is performed by Dr. Mark Beaty, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with decades of specialized expertise in aesthetic facial surgery. With a reputation for natural-looking results and minimal scarring, Dr. Beaty carefully tailors each procedure to suit the individual’s anatomy and cosmetic goals.
Dr. Beaty understands that even subtle changes around the eyes can significantly impact your overall appearance. His meticulous approach ensures that excess skin, puffiness, and drooping are addressed without creating a “surgical” or overcorrected look. Whether you’re seeking upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, or a combination of both, you can feel confident knowing your care is in the hands of a nationally recognized leader in facial plastic surgery.
Patients from across Atlanta and beyond trust our team for their ability to deliver personalized treatment in a welcoming, professional environment. With convenient locations in Midtown and Alpharetta, we offer both in-office and surgical center procedures, depending on your needs. From consultation to recovery, our goal is to help you look refreshed, feel confident, and enjoy lasting results that complement your natural beauty.
Schedule a Consultation Today!
Do not hesitate to book a consultation. Call today, or submit an online contact form and our office will get back to you. Our physicians and staff look forward to serving your needs!
