Eyelid Surgery (Blepharaoplasty)

Aging, genetics, sun damage and certain environmental stressors can your cause skin to lose its elasticity. In time, your eyelids begin to stretch and sag. Skin and supporting eyelid muscles become weak and loose, affecting your eyes and overall facial appearance. In some instances, droopy upper eyelids and sagging skin on the sides of your eyes can interfere with your vision.

Eyelid surgery specialists at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus can help enhance the appearance of your eyes. Our board certified blepharoplasty plastic surgeons will also treat any related problems that may affect your vision. At Ohio State, our plastic reconstructive surgery specialists also perform reconstructive eyelid surgery for eyes damaged by injury or cancer-related conditions.

What is blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a type of eyelid surgery performed by plastic surgeons to treat upper or lower eyelids that sag or droop. During blepharoplasty surgery, your plastic surgeon removes problematic excess skin, muscle and fat around the eye. After surgery, your eyes will have a more youthful, brighter look.

If you’re considering eyelid surgery, schedule a consultation with a blepharoplasty surgery specialist at Ohio State in Columbus, Ohio. During your consultation, you can also learn more about types of eyelid surgery and any other cosmetic surgery procedures you may be considering. Some people choose to have related cosmetic procedures such as facelift, nonsurgical skin rejuvenation and other types of cosmetic surgery offered by Ohio State’s plastic surgery team.

What to expect during blepharoplasty

During an office visit, your plastic surgeon will listen to your concerns and talk with you about the potential benefits and risks of this procedure. The surgeon will ask about your health and health history and evaluate the condition of your skin and eyes in helping to determine whether eyelid surgery is right for you. Your doctor may recommend upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery or some combination of procedures.  

Preparing for your eyelid surgery 

In a pre-surgery office visit, your Ohio State plastic surgeon will answer your questions regarding eyelid surgery or other procedures you’re considering. Together, you and your doctor will determine the best treatment plan, designed specifically for your needs. 

During your eyelid surgery

During surgery, your surgeon will make tiny incisions in the upper and/or lower eyelids. The skilled plastic surgeons at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center make these subtle incisions within or along the natural creases of the eyelids. Any possible scarring is virtually invisible. Your surgeon will remove excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids and lower eyelids if you’re having both areas treated. They’ll tighten remaining skin to create a smooth, firm appearance.  

In most instances, surgery takes one to three hours. Eyelid surgery is usually done in one of Ohio State’s convenient outpatient surgery locations. You should be able to go home the same day. 

Eyelid surgery recovery

After eyelid surgery, your eyes will be lubricated with a soothing ointment. You may experience some mild bruising and swelling in the treatment areas. This will subside within about two weeks after the procedure. 

Your doctor can prescribe medication if needed to minimize any pain or discomfort. It’s normal to experience certain temporary symptoms such as: 

• Blurry or double vision 
• Sensitivity to light  
• Tearing or watery eyes 

These symptoms can last for several days after eyelid surgery before resolving. You should be able to resume your usual daily routines within a week. It’s important to avoid any strenuous activities for at least two to three weeks after blepharoplasty surgery.  

Why choose Ohio State for eyelid surgery?

If you’re considering eyelid surgery, it’s important to choose a trusted, skilled and experienced plastic surgeon. At The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, you’ll find board certified plastic surgeons with expertise in a wide range innovative eyelid surgery techniques for both upper and lower eyelids.

Because Ohio State is a teaching and research hospital, our surgeons educate and train the next generation of plastic surgery leaders. Ohio State plastic surgeons also conduct research to bring about new advancements in cosmetic surgery, including the latest blepharoplasty treatments.

At Ohio State, you have access to:  

• Our entire team of exceptional surgeons who excel in plastic surgery and other complementary areas of science and medicine 
• Some of the nation’s most advanced and comprehensive cosmetic surgery treatments and care 
• Trusted and safe procedures from board-certified plastic surgeons with high-level skills and extensive experience and expertise 

Contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation

Your eyes and face are an important part of who you are and how you feel about yourself. Trust Ohio State’s team of plastic surgery leaders who have high standards and nationally recognized credentials and expertise. 

Our plastic surgeons can meet with you to discuss all aspects of eyelid surgery. We’ll help you determine if this is the best option for you. Your plastic surgeon will develop a customized treatment plan to deliver beautiful, natural-looking results. Our goal is to meet and exceed your expectations.