Blepharoplasty refers to eyelid surgery that is designed to remove the excess fat, along with loose wrinkled skin and muscle, from the upper and lower eyelids. For men and women, it is the most common aesthetic procedure of the skin performed by ophthalmologists, surgical specialists for the eyes.
A properly performed blepharoplasty procedure will brighten the face and restore a more youthful appearance. In many patients, the procedure will improve vision by removing the excessive skin of the upper eyelids which can hang down like heavy hoods and interfere with peripheral vision, or weigh the lids down during reading.

Eyelid surgery is usually performed using local anesthesia and light intravenous sedation. The procedure is most often performed in an outpatient surgical center on an outpatient basis with same day return to home.
The fine incisions made to accomplish the goals of the blepharoplasty are barely visible after several months as they are placed within the normal creases and folds of the upper and lower eyelids. In younger patients who only need removal of fat from the lower eyelids, the incision can be made on the inside of the eyelid, and will therefore leave the most visible skin unaffected.

The blepharoplasty procedure will not eradicate the wrinkles around the eyes (called crow's feet) nor will it elevate a droopy eyebrow. There are other procedures designed for these purposes. Dark circles under the eyes may improve if this is related to large bags and translucent skin, but most often the shadowy appearance of the lower eyelid skin remains, though lessened, after blepharoplasty.  Increased use of a specialized ophthalmic laser on crease lines and wrinkles around the eyes, cheeks and mouth has shown favorable results in furthering the blepharoplasty results.

The best patients for this surgery are those who have stable medical problems and are well motivated. Some medical conditions may increase the risk of blepharoplasty surgery, so discussions with your ophthalmologist during your routine annual eye exam is important.

Fortunately, when performed by an ophthalmologist, complications are infrequent and minor. All patients will experience some bruising and swelling for a few days after the surgery. Some may have temporary blurring of their vision, usually due to the ointments applied to the incisions after surgery.
Careful evaluation of the eyes and facial structures by an ophthalmologist prior to surgery will help the individual considering rejuvenation of the face and eyes decide the best method and surgical specialist.  Often, a full face-lift is not needed to restore aesthetic features and improve visual function;  a well planned blepharoplasty can be very effective and an economic alternative to a more involved surgical procedure.