Refresh Your Eyes: What to Know About Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Many people are surprised at how much their eyelids affect the way they look and feel. Heavy, sagging, or drooping eyelids can make you appear tired, limit your field of vision, and affect day-to-day comfort. For patients throughout Washington D.C., Chevy Chase, and Tysons Corner, eyelid surgery, also called blepharoplasty, has become a popular option for restoring a brighter and more refreshed appearance.
Why do people consider eyelid surgery?
Blepharoplasty is performed for both functional and cosmetic reasons. Some patients seek treatment because their upper eyelids droop into their line of sight, making reading, driving, or working more difficult. Others want to reduce puffiness, loose skin, or under-eye bags that make them look older than they feel. In either case, eyelid surgery can provide meaningful improvement by removing excess skin and repositioning fat to create a natural, rested look.
During your evaluation, your oculoplastic specialist will review your symptoms, vision concerns, and cosmetic goals to determine whether eyelid surgery is right for you. Every patient is different, so recommendations may vary based on anatomy and health history.
Expertise you can trust
Our oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Jewel Sandy, provides individualized assessments to help patients understand whether upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or a combination of both can best address their needs. Her training in eyelid anatomy and reconstructive techniques allows her to guide patients through safe, effective, and natural-looking treatment options.
Upper eyelid surgery
Upper blepharoplasty is often the best option when the skin of the upper lids begins to sag or fold. This can be caused by aging, genetics, or muscle laxity around the eyes. When the skin becomes heavy enough, it may droop into the lashes or interfere with peripheral vision.
The procedure removes excess skin and improves eyelid contour. Many patients notice immediate improvement in how open and awake their eyes appear, along with better visual function if drooping lids were blocking their sight.
Lower eyelid surgery
Lower blepharoplasty focuses on under-eye puffiness, bags, or loose skin. This procedure can smooth the lower lids, soften shadows, and create a more youthful appearance. Depending on individual needs, the surgeon may reposition fat, tighten skin, or address muscle laxity to create a smooth and natural result.
Lower eyelid surgery is generally performed for cosmetic enhancement, although some patients experience irritation or tearing from lax lower lids.
What to expect during treatment
Most eyelid procedures are performed in an outpatient setting with local anesthesia and light sedation. Patients typically go home the same day. Recovery is usually easier than expected. Mild swelling or bruising can occur for the first week, and many people return to normal activities within ten to fourteen days.
Your specialist will give you personalized instructions for aftercare, activity restrictions, and follow-up visits. Final results continue to improve over several weeks as swelling resolves.
When to schedule an evaluation
If you struggle with heavy lids, puffiness, or concerns about how your eyes look or feel, scheduling an eyelid evaluation can help you understand your options. A consultation is the best way to learn whether blepharoplasty is appropriate for your goals and which approach may work best for you.
Improving the appearance and function of your eyelids can make a real difference in your confidence, vision, and daily comfort. Call today to schedule an evaluation with our oculoplastic specialist.
