Blepharoplasty, also know as an eyelid lift, is one of the most frequently performed plastic surgery procedures. San Francisco Bay Area Blepharoplasty patients may benefit from eyelid surgery, if their upper eyelids are heavy with redundant skin, or if the lower eyelids are baggy and full.

Upper Eyelid Surgery (Upper Blepharoplasty)

Upper Eyelid Surgery (Upper Blepharoplasty) is most frequently performed to remove excess upper eyelid skin. When the skin is blocking upward gaze or peripheral vision, sometimes insurance will help cover the cost. Without visual impairment, the procedure is considered cosmetic. The presence of excess upper eyelid skin makes the lid look heavy, and gives a tired or sleepy appearance.

Lower Eyelid Surgery (Lower Blepharoplasty)

Lower Eyelid Surgery (Lower Blepharoplasty) is usually performed to remove excess fullness in the lower lid. Lower eyelid fat makes the eyes look puffy and sad. Removal of the lower eye bags, smooth the contour of the lower eyelids, and restores a rejuvenated and more rested appearance.

Quad Blepharoplasty (Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty)

When Upper Eyelid Surgery and Lower Eyelid Surgery are combined, it is termed a Bilateral Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty. Since the procedure includes a Blepharoplasty of all four eyelids, it is more simply referred to as a Quad Bleph (four eyelids).

Since the eyelids frequently age at the same rate, a Quad Bleph can provide balanced rejuvenation for the area around the eyes. This helps retain the upper and lower eyelid as a matched set, and is an important part of maintaining facial harmony. Another advantage of a Quad Bleph is the single recovery period for the two operations.

People with significantly dry eyes may not good candidates for the combined procedure. Working on both the upper and lower eyelid at the same time will often increase the symptoms of dry eyes. If you have symptoms of dry eyes, and you are considering upper and lower eyelid surgery, Dr. Mele may recommended the Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty be performed separately. This will allow time for the operated eyelid to recover, and reduce problems with dry eyes during your recovery.