Lower vs Upper Eyelid Surgery: Breaking Down the Differences

by Trudi Schrieber

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, can improve the appearance of upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, to help you look younger, refreshed, and alert. Upper eyelid and lower eyelid surgeries are generally used to target different eye issues. Additionally, both can be used together to target multiple eye irregularities.

During upper eyelid surgery, the surgeon makes an incision along the natural fold of the upper lid, which hides the incision. Excess skin and/or fatty deposits are then removed.

Upper eyelid surgery is great for addressing excess fatty deposits in the upper eyelid that make the lid look puffy. Upper blepharoplasty can also fix drooping upper eyelids that can impair vision, and make you look tired. Some individuals elect upper eyelid surgery to add a fold to the upper eyelid, which can make the eyes appear less narrow. This is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries among individuals with Asian background.

During lower eyelid surgery, the doctor makes an incision near the lower eyelashes, to conceal scarring. Similar to upper eyelid surgery, excess skin or fatty deposits can then be removed. Incisions may also be made on the inside surface of the lower lid for fat removal.

Lower blepharoplasty can remove fine wrinkles in the lower eyelid, and remove excess skin in the area. Additionally, lower eyelid surgery can eliminate annoying bags under the eyes. Plus, drooping lower eyelids, which shows the white below the iris, can be corrected with lower eyelid surgery.

Operation time, common side effects, risks, and recovery are the same for upper and lower eyelids surgeries. The surgery typically takes one to three hours to complete, unless you are receiving both upper and lower eyelid surgeries at once, in which case the procedure could take up to six hours to complete. Most patients will experience swelling and bruising of the treated area, excessive tearing, light sensitivity, and sometimes double vision for up to two weeks following surgery. It typically takes a couple of months for the final result to be stable. Patients will typically receive ointments to keep incisions lubricated for several days following surgery, and stitches are generally removed around two days after the operation.

Patients who are good candidates for upper or lower eyelid surgery are healthy individuals with non-threatening medical conditions, non-smokers, and those without serious eye conditions. If you would like to learn more about how upper or lower blepharoplasty can help you look younger, rested, and alert, contact our representatives today. We’ll arrange your personal consultation with a certified eyelid surgeon in your area.