Posted May 12, 2025 in Blepharoplasty
Upper blepharoplasty revitalizes aged, tired-looking eyes by removing loose, wrinkled skin. This blog discusses the benefits of this procedure, the recovery timeline, and when patients can expect to see their final results.
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How Does Blepharoplasty Improve the Look of the Eyes?
The eyes are the focal point of the face: they’re the first thing we look at in the mirror, and they are often our most effective way to communicate with others. So when they begin to age, it can feel like a loss of identity. Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that targets common signs of aging that affect the eyes: hanging skin and wrinkles throughout the upper eyelid, as well as fat deposits and crepey skin throughout the lower eyelids. Eyelid surgery patients can receive treatment of the upper lids, lower lids, or both in a quad blepharoplasty.
What Are the Benefits of Upper Blepharoplasty?
Certain factors affect the rate of visible aging around the eyes. For one, the skin of the eyelids is very thin and delicate, and is prone to a loss of elasticity. Additionally, without proper sun protection, the eyes can become easily damaged.
Upper blepharoplasty treats signs of aging in the upper lids: loose, crepey skin that hangs down and obstructs the sight line or warps the appearance of the eye shape. In some cases, upper blepharoplasty can improve the look of crow’s feet and other wrinkles as well.
This truly transformative procedure results in a more open, alert, and youthful appearance that lasts for years to come.
The Upper Blepharoplasty Procedure Steps
Your upper blepharoplasty will be performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you’ll be able to return home immediately after the procedure, although you’ll need a responsible driver to take you home.
The incisions are placed within or right below the natural crease of the eyelid—this means the incision and subsequent scar are invisible when the eyes are open.
Through the incisions, your surgeon will address specific concerns, usually lax muscles and loose, hanging skin. By tightening these tissues and removing excess, the eyelid skin is more taut, looking naturally youthful. The incisions are closed with sutures, and the procedure is complete.
So, When Can I See My Upper Blepharoplasty Results?
Immediately following your blepharoplasty, expect bruising, swelling, and some discomfort. Your aftercare instructions will likely require you to focus on one thing: rest. And frankly, that’s all you’ll want to do for a few days. Blurry vision, dry eyes, and eye fatigue are all common for about a week post-op, so be sure to give your eyes as much rest as possible—avoid straining your eyes by watching a lot of TV or reading for a long time.
Every patient is different, but most upper blepharoplasty patients start to feel enough functional and aesthetic improvement to return to work about five to seven days after surgery. However, final results, meaning your goal result is visible, can take another few weeks.
Upper Blepharoplasty Final Results Timeline
Day One (Surgery Day)
- Mild discomfort or tightness; managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
- Eyes may feel dry or gritty.
- Swelling and bruising begin.
- Ice packs (or a pack of frozen peas) are recommended for the first 48 hours (15 minutes on, 45 minutes off).
Days Two and Three
- Swelling and bruising usually peak.
- You may have blurred vision due to ointment or minor swelling.
- Continue with ice packs and elevate your head while sleeping.
- Light walking is okay; avoid bending or heavy lifting.
Days Four Through Seven
- Swelling begins to decrease.
- When present, the use of tranexamic acid (TXA) significantly reduces bruising. At this point, bruising may change color (purple → green → yellow).
- You might feel tightness or itching around the incision.
- Sutures are often removed between days five and seven.
Week One
- Swelling and bruising start to improve.
- Patients feel comfortable going out in public.
Week Two
- Swelling should be mostly gone.
- Some slight bruising may remain.
Weeks Four and Five
- This is about the time when you should start to see your final results, as bruising and swelling should no longer be concealing them.
- You’ll notice your upper eyelids are smooth, without excess skin.
- Wrinkles should be improved, and you should be able to notice more of your eye shape.
Week Six and Beyond
- For most patients, this is the point where the final results are evident.
- All residual bruising and swelling are gone, and the eyes should look open, alert, and revitalized.
- Upper blepharoplasty patients often remark that the results of the procedure have a rejuvenating effect on the whole face, as the eyes no longer look worn or tired.
Want to Learn More About Upper Blepharoplasty in New Orleans, LA?
Dr. Heath Charvet is a double board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in stunning yet natural-looking facial enhancement, including upper blepharoplasty and his signature deep plane facelift. If you’d like to learn more about how Dr. Heath can help bring the light back to your eyes, call Magnolia Plastic Surgery and MedSpa at (504) 571-5908 or fill out the online form to get started.