What Is Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery, medically known as blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic (and sometimes functional) procedure that rejuvenates the upper and/or lower eyelids by removing or repositioning excess skin, fat, and muscle.

The goal is not to change the shape of your eyes—but to restore a rested, alert look while preserving your natural anatomy and expression.

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How Aging Affects the Eyes

As we age, the delicate eyelid skin loses elasticity and structural support:

  • Upper eyelid skin stretches and begins to droop (hooding)
  • Fat pockets bulge, creating puffiness or bags
  • Lower eyelid skin loosens, causing wrinkles and shadowing
  • In severe cases, excess skin can obstruct vision

Blepharoplasty addresses these changes at their source for long-lasting improvement. 

Eyelid Surgery Before & After

Browse Dr. Lee’s before and after gallery,
as a glimpse of what’s in store for you.

View More Eyelid Surgery Results

Types of Eyelid Surgery

Dr. Michelle Lee customizes each eyelid surgery in Beverly Hills to suit the unique anatomy of each patient's eyes, their skin quality, and their individual aesthetic goals.

Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty

  • Removes excess skin and puffiness
  • Corrects hooding that can make eyes look heavy or tired
  • May improve visual obstruction
  • Incisions are hidden within the natural eyelid crease

Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty

  • Treats under-eye bags and puffiness
  • May use a transconjunctival approach (inside the eyelid, no external scar)
  • Loose skin is conservatively tightened
  • Lasers may be used to improve dark circles and skin texture

“Dr. Lee is a life saver! It is very important that a plastic surgeon actually listens to a patient’s wants and needs. That is exactly what Dr. Lee did. I highly recommend her!”

Real Patient Testimonial - Lemont

Benefits of Blepharoplasty

Patients choose eyelid surgery for both cosmetic and functional reasons, including:

  • A brighter, more youthful appearance
  • Reduction of under-eye bags and puffiness
  • Smoother, tighter eyelid skin
  • Improved eye openness and symmetry
  • Possible improvement in peripheral vision
  • Long-lasting, natural-looking results
  • Enhanced confidence and facial harmony

Blepharoplasty is also an excellent complement to brow lift, facelift, or facial rejuvenation procedures.

What Happens During Eyelid Surgery?

Blepharoplasty typically takes 1–2 hours and is performed under local anesthesia or sedation.

  • Incisions are placed in natural eyelid creases or inside the lower lid
  • Excess skin and fat are removed or repositioned
  • Muscles are tightened when appropriateIncisions are closed with fine sutures for minimal scarring

Sutures are either dissolvable or removed within 5-7 days.

Eyelid Surgery Recovery & Healing

Recovery from eyelid surgery is usually smooth and well-tolerated:

  • First 24–48 hours: Swelling and bruising managed with cold compresses
  • 3–7 days: Return to light activities and work
  • 1–2 weeks: Most visible bruising resolves
  • Several weeks: Final refinement of results

Patients receive personalized aftercare instructions to support healing and comfort.

Who Is a Candidate for Blepharoplasty?

You may be a good candidate for blepharoplasty in Beverly Hills if you:

  • Have drooping upper eyelids or under-eye bags
  • Look tired or aged despite feeling well rested
  • Are in good overall health
  • Do not have uncontrolled eye conditions
  • Do not smoke (or are willing to stop temporarily)
  • Have realistic expectations

In some cases, coordination with an ophthalmologist may be recommended.

What is the Cost of Blepharoplasty in Beverly Hills?

The cost of eyelid surgery in Beverly Hills varies based on:

  • Upper vs. lower eyelids (or both)
  • Surgical complexity
  • Anesthesia and facility fees
    Whether procedures are combined

Exact pricing is provided during your private consultation.

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Natural Results Are the Priority

Inspired by leading oculoplastic and facial plastic surgeons, Dr. Michelle Lee’s approach emphasizes:

  • Preserving eye shape and ethnicity
  • Avoiding hollowed or “overdone” eyes
  • Conservative fat removal or repositioning
  • Balanced, symmetrical outcomes

The result is a refreshed appearance—never a surgically obvious one. 

Blepharoplasty Post-Op Video

What to expect after your eyelid surgery and how to properly take care of yourself while healing. 

Procedures Commonly Combined With Eyelid Surgery

For comprehensive facial rejuvenation, eyelid surgery is often combined with:

  • Brow lift or forehead lift
  • Facelift or neck lift
  • Laser skin resurfacing (Fraxel CO₂)
  • Dermal fillers
  • Rhinoplasty

Combining procedures can reduce overall recovery time and cost.

Schedule Your Eyelid Surgery Consultation

Discover how blepharoplasty can restore a brighter, more youthful appearance—while preserving what makes you uniquely you.

Blepharoplasty Frequently Asked Questions

Will eyelid surgery fix my vision?

If drooping skin obstructs your vision, blepharoplasty may improve your visual field.

Is eyelid surgery covered by health insurance?

Cosmetic procedures are not covered, but functional cases may qualify for partial coverage.

Will there be scarring after eyelid surgery?

Incisions are carefully hidden in natural creases or inside the eyelid and typically heal discreetly.

How can I tell if I need an upper eyelid lift or a brow lift?

If lifting the brow improves eyelid hooding, a brow lift may be recommended. Dr. Michelle Lee will assess this during consultation.

Can I undergo other cosmetic procedures at the same time as my blepharoplasty?

Yes. Blepharoplasty is commonly combined with facial procedures for comprehensive rejuvenation.

Why Choose Dr. Michelle Lee for Eyelid Surgery?

Dr. Michelle Lee is a board-certified, Ivy League–trained plastic surgeon recognized for her refined, natural approach to facial surgery. She is nationally recognized, featured on Dr. 90210, and selected by Castle Connolly as a Top Plastic Surgeon. Patients choose PERK Plastic Surgery for:

  • Artistic precision
  • Natural, balanced results
  • Advanced techniques
  • Concierge-level care in Beverly Hills
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