Chicago Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, treats upper and/or lower eyelids that have succumbed to the effects of aging or gravity. Men and women who have had eyelid surgery enjoy a refreshed and well-rested appearance.

Candidates for Eyelid Surgery

You may be an appropriate candidate for eyelid surgery if you are in good physical health (i.e., free of any chronic medical conditions that could delay your recovery), do not smoke and have concrete goals for surgery. If you have any serious eye conditions, you may not be a suitable candidate for eyelid surgery.

Preparing for Eyelid Surgery

First, you will need to meet with our plastic surgeons to discuss blepharoplasty and verify that you are a suitable candidate. They will review your medical history and ask about any pre-existing health conditions or prior surgeries. Be sure to reveal any cardiovascular or thyroid disorders and eye-related conditions or diseases, including glaucoma, dry eye or retinal problems.

After reviewing your health record, our surgeons will explain the procedure in detail, covering the benefits, potential risks and cost. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions and you will receive a list of pre-operative instructions. This list could include having some medical testing performed or ceasing to smoke or use certain medications, vitamins or supplements.

The Surgical Procedure

Eyelid surgery is performed on an outpatient basis. After your anesthesia has been administered, our plastic surgeons will make an incision in either the natural crease of the upper eyelid or below the lash line. Depending on the specific treatment plan, fat deposits are repositioned, the muscles and tissues are tightened and any excess skin is removed. Then, the incisions are closed with sutures.

Recovering from Eyelid Surgery

You will need a loved one to drive you home from your procedure and assist you for the first day or two after surgery. Your eye area will be swollen and bruised after surgery, but this will subside within a few weeks. It’s important to rest as much as possible in the days following your procedure; avoid bending, lifting or any strenuous activities. You will meet with our surgical team several times to check the progress of your healing, and they will advise you as to when you can return to work and your normal routine.

Eyelid Surgery Risks

Potential eyelid surgery complications include infection, excessive bleeding or tearing, dry eyes, temporarily blurred or impaired vision, anesthesia-related complications and numbness or changes in skin sensation. Our surgeons will carefully review the potential risks with you during your initial consultation so you can make informed decisions about your care.

Other Considerations

Eyelid surgery does not affect creases or wrinkles around the eye area or on the forehead. Brow lift or facelift is more suitable to address facial wrinkles or sagging skin. Please ask our surgical team for more details about combining eyelid surgery with another procedure for a more transformative makeover.