Eyelid Surgery in Detroit

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle from the upper and/or lower eyelids. It can treat drooping or hooded upper eyelids that impair vision, puffy under-eye bags, excess skin creating a tired appearance, and fine wrinkles around the lower lids. It is one of the most popular facial rejuvenation procedures performed today.

Upper blepharoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelid, addressing hooding and heaviness that can make you look tired or even obstruct vision. Lower blepharoplasty targets under-eye puffiness, bags, and skin laxity. The two procedures are often performed simultaneously for comprehensive eyelid rejuvenation, but each can be done independently based on your specific concerns.

You may be a good candidate if you have significant excess upper eyelid skin, under-eye bags that do not respond to fillers or skincare, or functional vision impairment from drooping lids. Ideal candidates are in good general health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations. Medical conditions such as dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, or thyroid disorders will be evaluated during your consultation.

Incisions for upper blepharoplasty are placed within the natural eyelid crease, making scars virtually invisible once healed. Lower blepharoplasty incisions are placed just below the lower lash line or entirely inside the eyelid (transconjunctival approach) for patients whose primary concern is fat removal without excess skin. Scars typically fade to fine, imperceptible lines within a few months.

Most patients experience bruising and swelling for 1–2 weeks following eyelid surgery. You can typically return to work and normal activities within 10–14 days. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 3–4 weeks. Reading, screen time, and contact lens use may need to be limited in the first week. Final results are usually fully visible within 4–6 weeks.

Eyelid surgery results are long-lasting, often remaining visible for 10–15 years or more. Upper eyelid results tend to be particularly durable. However, the natural aging process continues, and factors such as sun exposure, genetics, and lifestyle can influence how long your results last. Some patients eventually choose a touch-up procedure years later.

Yes, blepharoplasty is frequently combined with a brow lift, facelift, laser resurfacing, or injectable treatments to achieve more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Combining procedures can reduce overall downtime compared to having each done separately, and allows for harmonious, balanced results across the entire upper and mid face.

Blepharoplasty is considered a safe procedure when performed by a qualified surgeon, but risks include temporary dryness or irritation of the eyes, asymmetry, scarring, infection, and in rare cases, difficulty closing the eyes (lagophthalmos) or changes in vision. Choosing a board-certified plastic or facial plastic surgeon with significant eyelid surgery experience minimizes these risks considerably.

Eyelid surgery addresses excess skin, fat, and laxity of the eyelid itself, while a brow lift elevates descended or heavy eyebrows that may be contributing to the appearance of hooded upper lids. Sometimes patients believe they need blepharoplasty when in fact their issue stems from brow ptosis. Your surgeon will evaluate both areas to determine whether one or both procedures are appropriate for your goals.