Skip to content
Close up portrait of Caucasian middle aged woman pointing to the wrinkles on the upper eyelid. Signs of aging on the face

Understanding Upper Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

Upper eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic or functional procedure aimed at improving the appearance and performance of the upper eyelids. Individuals who may benefit from this surgery often experience:

  • Drooping eyelids that impair vision.
  • Excess skin creating a tired or aged appearance.
  • Puffiness due to fat deposits in the eyelids.

Aging, genetics, and lifestyle factors can all contribute to these concerns. Patients seeking a more refreshed, youthful look or those needing improved vision due to sagging eyelids are ideal candidates.

When Does It Include a Brow Lift?

In some cases, blepharoplasty alone may not fully address a patient’s concerns. If drooping eyebrows are contributing to the heaviness on the upper eyelids, a brow lift may be recommended alongside eyelid surgery. This combination offers:

  • Better symmetry between the eyes and brows.
  • Enhanced overall rejuvenation by lifting the forehead and brow.
  • A more open and youthful appearance of the eye.

During your consultation at SARA Surgery, our team will assess your unique facial structure to determine whether combining a brow lift with upper eyelid surgery is the optimal approach.

The Procedure
  • Consultation: Patients start with a thorough consultation at SARA Surgery, where their concerns and goals are discussed. A full facial evaluation determines if they are a good candidate for blepharoplasty or if additional procedures, such as a brow lift, may be recommended.
  • Anesthesia: The surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia or with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s preference and the extent of the procedure.
  • Incision and Removal of Tissue: Dr. Dickie makes precise incisions along the natural creases of the upper eyelids, ensuring minimal visibility of scars. Excess skin, muscle, and fat are carefully removed or repositioned to reduce sagging and puffiness.
  • Layered Closure: The incisions are closed with fine sutures, which are removed within a few days. The meticulous closure technique helps minimize scarring.
  • Post-Procedure Care: Patients are given specific aftercare instructions, including using cold compresses, keeping the head elevated, and avoiding strenuous activities.
What is the Recovery Like?

Recovery from upper eyelid surgery is relatively straightforward. Patients can expect:

  • Swelling and bruising for the first 1-2 weeks.
  • Use of cold compresses to reduce swelling.
  • Stitches removal within 5-7 days.
  • Resumption of light activities within a few days.
  • Avoiding strenuous activities for 2-3 weeks.

Our team at SARA Surgery will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure optimal healing and minimal scarring. Follow-up appointments will monitor your recovery and address any concerns.

Explore Your Options at SARA Surgery

At SARA Surgery, we take a personalized approach to help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Whether you need upper eyelid surgery, a brow lift, or a combination of both, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation today to discover how we can help you look and feel your best.

Sara Surgery is a premier Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery provider in Morton Grove, Illinois, serving the greater Chicago area. 

Explore News

We are proud to announce that Dr. Sara Dickie was recently quoted in a Wall Street Journal article focused on evolving trends in plastic and cosmetic surgery across regions. The article explores how...
Lower eyelid surgery, or lower blepharoplasty, is a highly effective cosmetic procedure designed to address under-eye puffiness and skin laxity. It’s one of the most requested procedures for those seeking a more youthful,...
At SARA Surgery, many patients ask if it’s possible to combine procedures to save time and recovery. The answer is often yes—but it depends on the surgeries involved, your health, and your recovery...
At SARA Surgery, our mission is to help patients feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin. But there’s a fine line between self-improvement and unrealistic expectations. When dissatisfaction with appearance becomes...
We’re thrilled to announce that Dr. Sara Dickie has been nominated as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor—a prestigious honor that recognizes her excellence, dedication, and leadership in the field of plastic and reconstructive...
The recent buzz around neck-shaping shapewear—like the new launch from Skims—has stirred up conversation about whether compression garments can actually reshape the body. At SARA Surgery, we’re here to separate fact from fiction....