What is blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure to reshape or restore the eyelids by removing excess skin, fat, or tissue from the upper or lower lid, often to address aging, drooping, or impaired vision.
Blepharoplasty encompasses surgical procedures on the upper eyelid, lower eyelid, or both. The procedure removes excess skin, fat deposits, or weakened muscle to restore the eyelid's appearance and function. Aging commonly causes the eyelids to lose elasticity and accumulate loose tissue, creating a tired or heavy appearance that can affect how someone looks and, in severe cases, their field of vision.
Upper blepharoplasty addresses drooping skin above the eye, which can hood the eyelid and reduce the visible eye area. Lower blepharoplasty corrects puffiness, hollows, or sagging beneath the eye. Some patients need both procedures for balanced results. Beyond cosmetic improvement, blepharoplasty can restore peripheral vision when excess upper lid skin impairs sight, making it both a reconstructive and aesthetic concern.
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. Recovery involves temporary swelling and bruising around the eyes, with most patients returning to normal activities within one to two weeks. Results are generally permanent, though natural aging continues. Anyone considering eyelid surgery should consult a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss their goals and whether surgery is appropriate. Surgeons in Ontario offering this procedure can be found in the facial plastic surgery provider directory.