What Is Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper and/or lower eyelids to create a more youthful, refreshed appearance.

At Stevens Facial Plastic & Laser Center, eyelid surgery is customized to each patient’s anatomy to restore natural eyelid contours while preserving function.

What Concerns Can Eyelid Surgery Correct?

Eyelid surgery addresses both cosmetic and functional concerns caused by aging or genetics, including:

  • Excess upper eyelid skin
  • Fat deposits (upper/lower lids)
  • Skin laxity
  • Visual obstruction

By correcting these concerns, blepharoplasty can help patients look more alert and rested without changing their natural expression.

What Happens During Upper Eyelid Surgery?

Upper eyelid surgery removes excess skin and, in some cases, fat to restore a defined eyelid crease and improve vision if obstruction is present.

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or IV sedation in an outpatient setting. Incisions are placed within the natural crease of the eyelid for minimal visibility.

Recovery highlights:

  • Return to light activity: 3–7 days
  • Sutures removed: ~1 week
  • Swelling improves significantly within 1–2 weeks

What Happens During Lower Eyelid Surgery?

Lower eyelid surgery focuses on reducing puffiness and tightening loose skin while maintaining the natural shape of the eye.

We tailor the technique to each patient to avoid distortion or a “pulled” appearance.

Treatment options may include:

  • Fat repositioning or removal
  • Skin tightening
  • Minimally invasive techniques when appropriate

Recovery highlights:

  • Return to normal activity: 3–7 days
  • Swelling and bruising improve over 1–2 weeks

What Is Dr. Stevens’ Approach to Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery requires precision, especially in maintaining natural eye shape and expression. Dr. Stevens applies a conservative, anatomy-driven approach based on decades of experience.

Upper Eyelids

  • Proper incision placement is critical to avoid residual hooding
  • Incisions are extended laterally when needed to fully address excess skin
  • A slight upward slant is used to ensure natural healing and avoid a downward pull
  • Careful pre-surgical marking is one of the most important steps in achieving optimal results

Lower Eyelids

  • Whenever possible, Dr. Stevens prefers non-surgical or minimally invasive approaches first
  • Biostimulators like Bellafill® may be used to soften under-eye hollows
  • Less invasive options include:
    • “Pinch” blepharoplasty (minimal skin removal)
    • CO2 laser resurfacing
    • AccuTite® skin tightening
  • These approaches reduce the risk of lower lid rounding or a pulled appearance
  • Traditional surgery is reserved for cases where more correction is necessary

Who Is a Good Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?

Good candidates for eyelid surgery are individuals who want a long-lasting solution for eyelid aging and are healthy enough to undergo a minor surgical procedure.

You may be a good candidate if you:

  • Are bothered by the appearance of your eyelids despite skincare or non-surgical treatments
  • Want a long-term improvement, not temporary results
  • Are deciding between surgical and non-surgical options
  • Have realistic expectations about subtle, natural-looking results
  • Are in good overall health and able to heal properly

When surgery may be recommended:

  • When non-surgical treatments are no longer effective
  • When excess skin or structural changes cannot be corrected without surgery

A consultation helps determine whether a surgical or non-surgical approach will provide the most natural and effective result.

What Are the Benefits of Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery offers both aesthetic and functional improvements:

  • Look more rested and refreshed
  • Restore confidence in your appearance
  • Natural-looking rejuvenation
  • Long-lasting improvement

What Is the Recovery Timeline for Eyelid Surgery?

Most patients experience a relatively quick recovery compared to other facial procedures.

Typical recovery timeline:

  • Days 1–3: Swelling and mild bruising
  • Days 3–7: Sutures removed, return to light activity
  • Week 2: Most visible swelling resolves
  • Several months: Final results refine

What Are the Risks of Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery is generally safe when performed by a qualified surgeon, but all procedures carry some risk.

Potential risks include:

  • Temporary dry eyes
  • Swelling or bruising
  • Infection (rare)
  • Difficulty fully closing the eyes (rare)
  • Scarring (typically minimal and well-hidden)

We review all risks in detail and takes steps to minimize complications.

What Is the Average Cost of Eyelid Surgery?

The average cost of eyelid surgery in the United States typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether upper, lower, or both eyelids are treated.

At Stevens Facial Plastic & Laser Center, pricing varies based on your anatomy, surgical plan, and whether additional procedures are included. A consultation is required to receive an accurate, personalized quote.

Costs may include:

  • Surgeon’s fee
  • Facility fees
  • Anesthesia fees

In some cases, upper eyelid surgery may be partially covered by insurance if it is deemed medically necessary.

Can Eyelid Surgery Be Combined With Other Procedures?

Yes, eyelid surgery is often combined with other treatments to enhance overall facial rejuvenation.

Common combinations include:

Combining procedures can create more balanced and comprehensive results.

What Do Before-and-After Results Look Like?

Before-and-after photos help patients understand the potential results of eyelid surgery.

What Do Patients Say About Dr. Stevens?

Dr. Stevens is the most caring and professional doctor | have ever been to. So happy with the results!

Dr. Stevens and his staff are awesome. He is very knowledgeable, informative, and superb in his craft. Highly recommend him and his team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Thinner or more elastic skin tends to heal more smoothly, while sun-damaged or lax skin may require additional treatments like laser resurfacing for optimal results.

In some cases, eyelid surgery can be performed to make the eyes appear more symmetrical. The exact technique used will depend on the root of the problem. An in-person evaluation is needed to determine whether eyelid surgery or another procedure can treat asymmetrical eyes.

Yes. Removing fat reduces puffiness, while repositioning fat can smooth transitions and avoid a hollow appearance. The approach depends on your anatomy.

Scars are minimal and typically hidden within natural eyelid creases or along the lash line.

Most patients can resume both within 1–2 weeks once healing has progressed.

Schedule a Consultation

The best way to determine if eyelid surgery is right for you is through a personalized consultation. Dr. Stevens will evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals, and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Schedule
a Consultation

Schedule a consultation in Fort Myers with facial plastic surgeon Dr. Douglas Stevens. Dr. Stevens and his talented staff offer a wide selection of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures to rejuvenate your appearance and restore your youthful facial features.