Upper vs. Lower Eyelid Surgery: Which Procedure Do You Need?

Do you feel like your eyes are showing signs of aging, but you’re unsure if you need upper or lower eyelid surgery? Eyelid surgery can dramatically rejuvenate your appearance. But which procedure is right for you—upper, lower, or both? In this article, we’ll break down the differences between these two types of eyelid surgery, helping you make an informed decision about your next steps toward a refreshed and youthful look.

What Is Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess skin, fat, or muscle from the upper or lower eyelids to create a more youthful and rested appearance. The surgery can address a range of issues, from sagging upper eyelids to under-eye bags, and is often sought for both cosmetic and functional reasons. At Stevens Facial Plastic & Laser Center, our expert team offers personalized treatment plans to ensure optimal results.

Upper Eyelid Surgery: When Is It Needed?

Upper eyelid surgery focuses on the area above the eye, where excess skin can sag and create a drooping effect. This can not only make you look older or more tired but can also impair your vision if the drooping becomes severe.

Signs You May Need Upper Eyelid Surgery:

• Sagging or drooping eyelids that affect your peripheral vision.
• Excess skin that creates a hooded appearance over your eyes.
• Difficulty applying makeup because of the extra skin on your upper lids.

Upper eyelid surgery is a relatively quick procedure with minimal downtime. It can refresh your appearance, making your eyes look brighter and more open while restoring a youthful contour to your eyelids.

Lower Eyelid Surgery: Is It Right for You?

Lower eyelid surgery addresses concerns such as under-eye bags, puffiness, or loose skin below the eyes. This area is prone to showing signs of aging early, leading to a tired or worn-out appearance.

Signs You May Need Lower Eyelid Surgery:

• Puffy bags or fat deposits under your eyes that make you look perpetually tired.
• Dark circles that are not improving with skincare treatments or makeup.
• Loose, sagging skin below your eyes that creates a wrinkled, droopy effect.

During lower eyelid surgery, excess skin and fat are removed or repositioned to smooth the area and create a more youthful, well-rested look.

Upper vs. Lower Eyelid Surgery: Key Differences

While both procedures are designed to rejuvenate the eye area, there are distinct differences between upper and lower eyelid surgeries.

• Upper Eyelid Surgery: Focuses on correcting drooping skin above the eyes and often improves vision.
• Lower Eyelid Surgery: Targets puffiness, wrinkles, and bags below the eyes to refresh the lower face.

Some patients may benefit from combining both upper and lower eyelid surgeries to achieve comprehensive results. This can provide a balanced, youthful appearance to the entire eye area.

Combining Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery for Optimal Results

For some patients, combining both upper and lower eyelid surgery can deliver the most comprehensive rejuvenation. By addressing both sagging upper eyelids and puffy lower lids in a single procedure, you can achieve a balanced, harmonious look that revitalizes your entire eye area. This combination approach is especially beneficial for those looking to correct multiple signs of aging simultaneously, providing dramatic yet natural results. We tailor each procedure to your unique needs, ensuring that you achieve your desired aesthetic with minimal downtime and maximum satisfaction.

What to Expect During Eyelid Surgery

If you’re considering eyelid surgery, it’s essential to know what to expect from the process. At Stevens Facial Plastic & Laser Center, we guide patients through every step, ensuring they feel comfortable and informed.

1. Consultation: During the consultation, we will evaluate your eyelids and discuss your aesthetic goals.
2. Procedure: Depending on whether you need upper, lower, or both eyelid surgeries, the procedure will typically take 1-2 hours.
3. Recovery: Most patients experience mild swelling and bruising, which subsides in 1-2 weeks. You’ll begin to see results as the area heals, with full results visible within a few months.

Is Eyelid Surgery Right for You?

Eyelid surgery can significantly enhance your facial appearance by restoring a youthful, refreshed look. At Stevens Facial Plastic & Laser Center, our skilled team is here to help you make the best decision for your unique goals. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward a more youthful, vibrant appearance!