UVA Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
650 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Suite 200, 2nd Floor
Charlottesville, VA 22911
Phone: (434) 924-5078
Monday–Friday | 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

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Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, restores a more refreshed and youthful look to the upper face by addressing lax eyelids, puffiness, and bags around the eyes. Whether performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, blepharoplasty can create a brighter, more rested appearance while maintaining your natural expression. At UVA Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in Charlottesville, Virginia, every treatment plan is personalized to your anatomy and cosmetic goals, with an emphasis on natural-looking results and patient safety.

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What Is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that rejuvenates the eyelids by removing or repositioning excess skin, fat, and, when appropriate, tightening surrounding tissues. Commonly addressed concerns include:

Excess upper eyelid skin
Puffy upper eyelids
Loose or crepey lower eyelid skin
A tired or aged appearance around the eyes
Visual obstruction caused by excess upper eyelid skin

Upper and lower eyelid surgery may be performed separately or together depending on your concerns and desired outcome.

Who Is a Candidate for Blepharoplasty?

Candidates for blepharoplasty are women and men who meet the following criteria:

Are bothered by excess eyelid skin, under-eye bags, or fat pockets at the corners of the eyes
Have realistic expectations for their results
Are in good overall health
Do not smoke or are willing to stop before surgery

During your consultation, your surgeon will determine whether upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or a combination of both is appropriate for you.

How Is Blepharoplasty Performed?

Our surgeons customize blepharoplasty to each patient’s anatomy and aesthetic goals using the following techniques:

Upper eyelid surgery is performed through a carefully placed incision hidden within the natural eyelid crease, allowing removal of excess skin and, when appropriate, repositioning or removal of excess fat.
Lower eyelid surgery may be performed through an incision just below the eyelashes or through an incision inside the eyelid (transconjunctival approach), depending on your anatomy and treatment goals. Fat may be either repositioned or removed to create a smooth transition between the lower eyelid and cheek.

Blepharoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia with IV sedation or general anesthesia. In general, lower blepharoplasty is performed with general anesthesia.

Our Blepharoplasty Surgeons

At UVA Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, our plastic surgeons provide individualized care using advanced facial rejuvenation techniques to restore a refreshed, natural appearance.

Can Blepharoplasty Be Combined With Other Procedures?

Yes, many women and men benefit from combining brow lift surgery with one or more of the following procedures:

Your surgeon will develop a customized treatment plan based on your anatomy and aesthetic goals.

What Is Blepharoplasty Recovery Like?

Most patients return home the same day after surgery. Mild swelling, bruising, and temporary tightness around the eyes are expected and improve steadily during recovery.

Recovery Timeline

Week 1

Rest with your head elevated.
Cold compresses help minimize swelling and bruising.
Sutures are typically removed within one week.

Week 2

Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities.
Light exercise may gradually resume as directed by your surgeon.

Long Term

Incisions fade gradually over several months.
Final results become increasingly apparent as swelling resolves.

Why Choose UVA Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

• Dual-boarded oculoplastic surgery-trained and fellowship-trained plastic surgeons experienced in facial rejuvenation
• Personalized surgical plans
• Academic medical center resources
• Commitment to natural-looking outcomes
• Patient safety at every stage

Insight From Our Surgeons

Blepharoplasty improves the appearance of the eyelids, but does not lift the eyebrows. Patients with a low or heavy brow may benefit from combining eyelid surgery with a brow lift to achieve the most balanced, refreshed result.

Blepharoplasty FAQ

When can I wear makeup again?

Most patients may begin wearing eye makeup approximately 10 to 14 days after surgery, once the incisions have healed. Your surgeon will provide individualized instructions based on your recovery.

Will I look natural?

Yes. Our goal is to restore a refreshed, well-rested appearance while preserving your natural eye shape and facial expression. Most patients simply look less tired rather than noticeably different.

How long do blepharoplasty results last?

Upper eyelid surgery typically provides long-lasting improvement, often for 10 years or more; lower eyelid surgery often lasts longer. Be aware that the natural aging process continues over time.

Will my scars be visible?

Upper eyelid incisions are carefully hidden within the natural eyelid crease. Lower eyelid incisions are placed just below the eyelashes or inside the eyelid, depending on the technique used. As healing progresses, scars typically become very difficult to notice.

Your Next Step

To learn more about eyelid surgery at UVA Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in Charlottesville, request a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons using the online form or call (434) 924-5078 to schedule an appointment.