Blepharoplasty in NYC | Expert Eyelid Surgery

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is one of the most popular and transformative facial cosmetic procedures available today. Whether addressing upper eyelid drooping, under-eye bags, excess skin, or functional vision problems, blepharoplasty can dramatically refresh your appearance and enhance your eyes. At our Manhattan practice, Dr. Masoud Saman and Dr. Ahmedli specialize in refined blepharoplasty techniques that create natural, youthful results while maintaining your unique facial identity.

What Is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes or repositions excess eyelid skin, fat, and tissue. The procedure can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, depending on your aesthetic goals and functional needs. Over time, the eyelids naturally lose elasticity and accumulate excess skin and fat, creating a tired, aged appearance. Additionally, excess upper eyelid skin can impair vision, and lower eyelid fullness can create prominent under-eye bags.

Blepharoplasty addresses these concerns by carefully removing excess tissue, tightening supportive structures, and sculpting the eyelids to restore a refreshed, alert appearance. The results are often dramatic—patients frequently report that they look more rested, more youthful, and that others comment that they appear healthier simply from the improvement in their eye area.

Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty addresses drooping eyelids, excess upper eyelid skin, and heavy-looking eyes. As we age, the skin and supportive tissues of the upper eyelids lose elasticity, creating a hooded appearance that can make us look tired or sad. In some cases, the sagging skin becomes severe enough to impair vision, making blepharoplasty not only cosmetic but also functionally necessary.

Dr. Saman and Dr. Ahmedli carefully assess the amount of excess skin and fat, considering your unique facial anatomy. During surgery, they remove excess skin precisely, reposition fat if needed, and create natural-looking upper eyelid creases. The goal is to open the eye area while maintaining natural proportions and creating a subtle double eyelid crease that enhances rather than dramatically alters your appearance.

Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty addresses under-eye bags, puffiness, and excess skin that contribute to a tired appearance. Many patients report that their most significant aesthetic concern is fullness or bags under the eyes, which can make them appear fatigued even when well-rested.

Lower blepharoplasty can be performed through a transconjunctival approach (making the incision inside the eyelid, hidden from view) or through an external approach. Our surgeons carefully remove or reposition excess fat, tighten underlying supportive tissues, and remove excess skin if needed. The transconjunctival approach is particularly advantageous for younger patients with good skin quality, as it leaves no external scar.

Benefits and Results

Blepharoplasty offers transformative aesthetic and sometimes functional benefits. Cosmetically, the procedure creates a more alert, refreshed, youthful appearance. Patients frequently report that others comment they look more awake, healthier, and more energetic. The eye area is among the first areas to show signs of aging, and addressing it often makes the entire face appear more youthful.

Functionally, upper blepharoplasty can improve vision if excess skin was obstructing the visual field. Results are long-lasting, typically maintaining their appearance for at least 7-10 years or longer. Recovery is relatively quick compared to more extensive facial surgery, with most patients returning to normal activities within 1-2 weeks.

The Procedure and Recovery

Blepharoplasty is typically performed under twilight anesthesia or general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. Upper blepharoplasty usually takes 30-60 minutes, while lower blepharoplasty takes 45-60 minutes. Combined upper and lower blepharoplasty takes approximately 90 minutes.

Dr. Saman and Dr. Ahmedli make carefully placed incisions—along the upper eyelid crease for upper blepharoplasty or along the lash line or inside the eyelid for lower blepharoplasty. After making these incisions, they carefully remove or reposition excess fat and skin. The incisions are closed with fine sutures, resulting in nearly invisible scars that fade significantly over time.

Initial recovery involves 3-5 days of noticeable swelling and bruising, with gradual improvement over the following weeks. Most patients feel comfortable returning to work within 7-10 days. Cold compresses during the first 48 hours help minimize swelling and bruising. Final results become apparent after all swelling resolves, typically within 2-3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blepharoplasty

Is blepharoplasty painful?

Blepharoplasty is not painful during the procedure, as anesthesia is used. Post-operatively, most patients experience minimal discomfort, primarily mild irritation or scratching sensation. Prescribed pain medication is typically sufficient, though many patients find over-the-counter pain relievers adequate.

How long do blepharoplasty results last?

Blepharoplasty results are long-lasting, typically maintaining their appearance for 7-10 years or longer. While aging continues, the improved eye contours established by the procedure generally remain evident for many years.

Will blepharoplasty scars be visible?

Blepharoplasty incisions are carefully placed along natural eyelid creases or along the lash line, resulting in nearly invisible scars. Most scars fade significantly within 3-6 months and become increasingly inconspicuous over time.

When can I return to work?

Most patients feel comfortable returning to work within 7-10 days. While some swelling and bruising may be present initially, it typically improves significantly by this timeframe.

Can blepharoplasty improve my vision?

Yes, upper blepharoplasty can improve vision if excess upper eyelid skin was obstructing the visual field. Many insurance companies cover upper blepharoplasty for patients with documented visual obstruction.

Can blepharoplasty be combined with other procedures?

Yes, blepharoplasty is frequently combined with other facial procedures such as facelift, brow lift, or non-surgical treatments. Many patients choose combined procedures to achieve comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Our surgeons will discuss combination options during your consultation.