Upper lid blepharoplasty is a precise surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids to restore a refreshed, alert appearance. This delicate procedure addresses hooding, puffiness, and sagging that can make you look tired or aged, while maintaining your natural eye shape and expression.
Before / After Gallery
Our before-and-after gallery showcases subtle yet significant improvements in upper eyelid appearance. Each patient’s results reveal brighter, more open eyes without an obvious “surgical” look. You’ll notice how upper lid blepharoplasty can restore a natural, rested appearance while preserving your unique facial features and expressions.
Treatable Areas
- Excess or hooded skin on the upper eyelids
- Fatty deposits causing puffiness in the upper eyelids
- Drooping skin that may interfere with vision
- Upper eyelid heaviness that creates a tired appearance
- Fine lines and wrinkles on the upper eyelids
- Asymmetry between upper eyelids
- Excess skin that makes applying makeup difficult
How Upper Lid Blepharoplasty Works
During an upper lid blepharoplasty, Dr. Beth Collins makes precise incisions along the natural creases of your upper eyelids, where any resulting scars will be virtually invisible when your eyes are open. Through these carefully placed incisions, she removes exact amounts of excess skin and may reposition or remove small fat pockets that contribute to puffiness.
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation, allowing for a quicker recovery and minimal discomfort. Dr. Collins takes careful measurements before and during surgery to ensure just the right amount of tissue is removed, preserving your natural eyelid function and shape while creating a refreshed, rejuvenated appearance.
After the procedure, the incisions are closed with fine sutures. Initial healing takes place quickly, with most patients able to return to normal activities within a short period, though complete healing continues more subtly for several weeks as any residual swelling resolves.
Results You’ll Love
- A more alert, refreshed appearance without changing your fundamental look
- Improved field of vision if excess skin was obstructing sight
- Reduction of heaviness and fatigue around the eyes
- Easier application of eye makeup
- A naturally defined upper eyelid crease
- Elimination of puffiness caused by fatty deposits
- Results that typically last 10–15 years or more
- Natural-looking outcomes that friends notice but can’t quite identify
Are You a Candidate for Upper Lid Blepharoplasty?
- You have excess, drooping skin on your upper eyelids
- You feel your eyes look tired or aged even when you’re well-rested
- Upper eyelid heaviness interferes with your vision or daily activities
- You have difficulty applying makeup due to lack of visible lid space
- Your upper eyelids appear puffy due to fat deposits
- You’re in good general health with no serious eye conditions
- You have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve
- You’re looking for a long-lasting solution to rejuvenate your eye area
Why Choose The Collins Center
- Double board-certified plastic surgeon – Board certified in both general surgery and plastic surgery, with training from Emory University, one of the top plastic surgery programs in the country
- 25+ years of surgical expertise – With over a decade and a half of dedicated surgical practice, Dr. Collins brings proven experience and refined technique to every procedure
- Physician-led care with medical oversight – Every aspect of your treatment is overseen by Dr. Collins, ensuring the highest standard of safety and results grounded in medical science
- Empathetic, patient-centered approach – Dr. Collins’ personal experience with surgical recovery and body transformation enables authentic empathy for the physical and emotional aspects of your journey.
FAQs about Upper Lid Blepharoplasty
How long does upper eyelid surgery take?
The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours to complete, depending on the complexity of your case and whether you’re having both upper eyelids treated simultaneously (which is most common).
What type of anesthesia is used for upper lid blepharoplasty?
Most upper eyelid surgeries are performed under local anesthesia with sedation, though general anesthesia is an option for some patients. Upper lid blepharoplasty is often combined with other procedures. Dr. Collins will discuss the best approach for your specific situation during your consultation.
When can I return to work after upper eyelid surgery?
Most patients return to work and social activities within 7-10 days after surgery, once the majority of bruising and swelling has subsided. If you work from home or have a non-strenuous job, you may feel comfortable returning after just 3-5 days.
Will I have visible scars after upper lid blepharoplasty?
The incisions are made within the natural creases of your upper eyelids, making any resulting scars virtually undetectable once healed. When your eyes are open, the scars are completely hidden within the natural fold of your eyelid.
How long do the results of upper eyelid surgery last?
The improvement is very long-lasting because the excess skin is permanently removed. While your eyelids will continue to age naturally over time, most patients enjoy the refreshed look for 10 to 15 years or longer. Many patients never require a revision, while others may consider a minor touch-up procedure well over a decade later.
Will insurance cover my upper eyelid surgery?
Insurance may cover upper lid blepharoplasty if the excess skin is significantly obstructing your vision. This requires documentation from an ophthalmologist and specific testing. Purely cosmetic blepharoplasty is not covered by insurance.
What is recovery like?
Recovery from upper lid blepharoplasty is typically straightforward. Expect mild discomfort, bruising, and swelling for the first week. Cold compresses and keeping your head elevated help minimize swelling. Sutures are removed after 5-7 days, and most visible signs of surgery fade within two weeks.
Can upper lid blepharoplasty be combined with other procedures?
Yes, upper lid blepharoplasty is often combined with lower lid blepharoplasty for comprehensive eye rejuvenation. It can also complement other facial procedures such as brow lifts, facelifts, or non-surgical treatments like Botox or dermal fillers for enhanced results.







