Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty) at Lakeside Cosmetic Center

​

The eyes are often the first thing people notice, and for many patients, changes to the upper and lower eyelids can significantly affect how rested, alert, and approachable they appear to others. Whether driven by aging, genetics, sun damage, or simply the passage of time, excess eyelid skin and puffiness can leave you looking tired even when you feel your best. Blepharoplasty, or eyelid lift surgery, is one of the most popular procedures at Lakeside Cosmetic Center, and one that Dr. Chelsea Obourn performs with exceptional precision and care. By addressing the upper lids, lower lids, or both, Dr. Obourn is able to restore a naturally refreshed and youthful appearance to the eyes.

​

What is Blepharoplasty?

​

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that addresses excess skin and puffiness of the upper and/or lower eyelids. There are two components that are commonly treated:

​

Excess Skin: Excess skin of the upper eyelids can hang over the eyes, hooding the lids and in some cases obstructing vision. This can interfere with daily activities, including driving, and can also be a cosmetic concern, contributing to a constantly tired appearance or making makeup application difficult. Excess skin of the lower eyelids can similarly contribute to a heavy or aged appearance.

​

Orbital Fat Herniation: In addition to excess skin, the eyelids can take on a puffy appearance due to the herniation of orbital fat. This is fat that normally sits inside the eye socket but slowly protrudes outward as the eyelid tissues weaken over time. Removing or repositioning this fat can significantly refresh the appearance of the eyes. By carefully removing excess skin and/or fat, Dr. Obourn is able to give the eyes a more youthful, rested, and restored appearance.

​

Who is a Good Candidate?

​

You may be a good candidate for blepharoplasty if you:

• Notice excess skin on the upper eyelids that hoods or weighs down the lids

• Feel that your eyes look tired, heavy, or puffy despite feeling well rested

• Have experienced any difficulty with vision, driving, or daily activities due to excess upper eyelid skin

• Are bothered by puffiness of the upper or lower eyelids

• Have difficulty applying makeup due to excess upper eyelid skin

• Are in good overall health with realistic expectations for your outcome

​

A thorough consultation with Dr. Obourn will help determine whether upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, or a combination of both is the right approach for you.

​

Cosmetic & Functional Considerations

​

Upper blepharoplasty may be eligible for insurance coverage in cases where excess eyelid skin is causing a measurable impairment of vision. In all other cases, blepharoplasty is considered a cosmetic procedure and is self-pay. Lower blepharoplasty is considered cosmetic and is not covered by insurance. Dr. Obourn will discuss the details of your specific situation, including cost and any potential insurance considerations, at your consultation.

​

Dr. Obourn's Technique

​

Upper Blepharoplasty: Surgery to remove excess skin of the upper eyelids is performed through an incision hidden in the natural crease of the upper lid, keeping scarring discreet and well concealed. Fine sutures are placed during surgery and are typically removed five to seven days afterward.

​

Lower Blepharoplasty: Surgery on the lower eyelid can be performed through an incision on the inside of the lower eyelid, leaving no external incisions, or through an incision on the outside of the lower eyelid. The approach is partially dependent on whether it is necessary to remove skin from the lower lid. Dr. Obourn will discuss incision placement with you in great detail at your consultation to ensure the best possible outcome for your specific anatomy and goals.

​

Where is the Procedure Performed?

Upper blepharoplasty can be performed comfortably right here in our office using sedating medications and local anesthesia, making it a very accessible procedure for appropriate candidates. Lower blepharoplasty is performed in a fully accredited operating room (OR) setting. Dr. Obourn will discuss the most appropriate setting for your procedure at your consultation.

​

Recovery

​

Recovery from blepharoplasty is generally very manageable. Here is a general overview of what to expect:

​

• First few days: Some swelling, bruising, and tightness around the eyes is normal and expected. Cool compresses and keeping the head elevated can help manage swelling during this time.

• First week: Most patients are comfortable recovering at home. Sutures for upper blepharoplasty are typically removed five to seven days after surgery.

• 2 to 3 weeks: Visible bruising and swelling begin to subside significantly. Many patients feel comfortable returning to social activities, though individual timelines vary.

• 4 to 6 weeks: Most normal activities can gradually resume with Dr. Obourn's clearance.

• Several months: Final results continue to refine as residual swelling resolves and the eyelids settle into their new, refreshed appearance.

​

Dr. Obourn and our care team will provide you with detailed, personalized recovery instructions and are available to support you every step of the way.

​

Pre-Op Considerations

​

Prior to your blepharoplasty, Dr. Obourn will provide you with thorough pre-operative instructions. General guidelines typically include:

​

• Avoiding blood-thinning medications, supplements, and alcohol in the weeks leading up to surgery

• Stopping smoking well in advance of your procedure, as smoking significantly impacts healing

• Completing any required pre-operative labs or medical clearances

• Arranging for a trusted adult to drive you home and assist you during the early days of recovery

• Preparing your recovery space at home ahead of time for comfort and ease

​

All specific instructions will be personalized and reviewed thoroughly before your procedure date.

​

Post-Op Considerations

​

Following your blepharoplasty, you will receive detailed aftercare instructions from Dr. Obourn and our team. General post-operative guidelines often include:

​

• Keeping the head elevated, especially during sleep, to minimize swelling

• Using cool compresses gently around the eyes as directed to help with swelling and bruising

• Avoiding strenuous activity and heavy lifting for several weeks

• Refraining from wearing eye makeup until cleared by Dr. Obourn

• Protecting the eyes and incision areas from sun exposure during healing

• Using any prescribed eye drops or ointments as directed to keep the eyes comfortable and support healing

• Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments so Dr. Obourn can monitor your healing and address any questions

​

Our team is always just a call or message away if you have questions or concerns during your recovery.

​

Risks

​

As with any surgical procedure, blepharoplasty carries potential risks that Dr. Obourn will review with you thoroughly at your consultation. Risks include:

​

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Scarring

• Asymmetry

• Dry eyes

• Vision changes

• Hematoma (collection of blood around the eye) requiring emergency treatment

​

Ready to Learn More?

​

If you are curious about whether blepharoplasty might be right for you, we would love to hear from you. Please complete our surgical inquiry form below and a member of our team will be in touch to guide you through the next steps.

​

Complete the Surgical Inquiry Form.