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The Art of Eyelid Surgery

At Fort Lauderdale Plastic Surgery, doing eyelid surgery in Fort Lauderdale is a key part of our repertoire. Dr. Lisa Learn and her dedicated team are here to guide you through this transformative journey, ensuring your well-being and comfort every step of the way. This surgical technique involves the removal of excess skin, muscle, and fat, as well as the tightening of the eyelid area, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed look.

Dr. Lisa Learn And Her Team Are Skilled In Blepharoplasty Techniques

Blepharoplasty rejuvenates both the upper and lower eyelids, as well as the surrounding areas. The procedure can reduce puffiness, bags, and dark circles under the eyes, and remove excess skin, which can give one a sleepy look. Removing the excess skin also eliminates wrinkles in some cases. When you decide to undergo the procedure, you have some options. You can choose to have just the upper or lower lids done, or both at the same time. Our clients have seen beautiful results through skilled application of the following techniques:

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Upper Eyelid Lift

Addresses excess skin and fat on the upper eyelids. Enhances appearance by reducing hooded or drooping eyelids.

Lower Eyelid Lift

Focuses on reducing under-eye bags and excess skin. Enhances appearance by smoothing the lower eyelid area, reducing puffiness.

Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty

Targets under-eye fat deposits through an incision inside the lower eyelid. Enhances appearance by reducing under-eye bags without external scarring.

Canthoplasty or Canthopexy

Involves tightening or repositioning the outer corner of the eye. Enhances appearance by improving eye shape and preventing a downturned look.

Combination Blepharoplasty

Combines upper and lower eyelid surgery for comprehensive rejuvenation. Enhances appearance by addressing multiple concerns simultaneously, yielding a refreshed look.

Upper vs Lower Blepharoplasty

Upper and lower blepharoplasty address different concerns around the eyes, and many patients benefit from understanding how each procedure works.

Upper blepharoplasty focuses on the upper eyelids. It is commonly used to correct:

* Hooded or drooping eyelids
* Excess skin that folds over the lash line
* A tired or heavy appearance in the upper eye area
* Vision obstruction caused by excess skin

Lower blepharoplasty focuses on the area beneath the eyes. It is commonly used to correct:

* Under-eye bags caused by fat herniation
* Puffiness or swelling under the eyes
* Loose or sagging lower eyelid skin
* A hollow or fatigued under-eye appearance

While upper eyelid surgery improves the lid contour and function, lower eyelid surgery primarily improves smoothness and reduces puffiness. Many patients choose to combine both procedures for a more complete rejuvenation of the eye area.

There Are Many Benefits To Eyelid Surgery

The eyes are often referred to as the "windows to the soul," but they are also one of the first areas to show signs of aging. Fortunately, eyelid rejuvenation surgery, or blepharoplasty, offers a solution.

  • Youthful Appearance: Eyelid surgery can create a more youthful and refreshed look by addressing sagging skin, wrinkles, and puffiness.
  • Enhanced Vision: The procedure can improve vision by removing excess skin that may obstruct the visual field.
  • Boosted Confidence: Achieving a more alert and rested appearance often leads to increased self-confidence.
  • Natural Results: When performed conservatively, eyelid surgery results in a natural, harmonious appearance.
  • Customization: Your procedure will be tailored to your individual needs, addressing specific concerns on the upper or lower eyelids.
  • Long-Lasting: Results can last for many years, making it a cost-effective investment in one's appearance.
  • Minimal Scarring: Small, discreet incisions minimize visible scarring, ensuring a subtle enhancement.
  • Complementary: Eyelid surgery can be combined with other facial procedures for a comprehensive rejuvenation.
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Am I a Candidate for Eyelid Surgery

Ideal candidates for eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) are individuals who are concerned about aging or functional changes around the eyes and are in good overall health.

You may be a good candidate if you experience:

* Drooping or sagging upper eyelids
* Excess upper eyelid skin that creates a hooded appearance
* Under-eye bags or puffiness that do not improve with rest
* Loose or crepey skin beneath the eyes
* A tired or aged appearance even when well rested
* Difficulty seeing clearly due to overhanging eyelid skin
* A desire for a more refreshed, alert, and youthful look

Candidates should be non-smokers or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery to support proper healing. It is also important to have realistic expectations about what eyelid surgery can achieve, as the goal is enhancement rather than changing your natural appearance completely.

During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your eyelid structure, skin quality, and overall facial balance to determine whether upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, or a combination approach is best for your needs.

Eyelid Surgery Before & After

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What To Expect After The Procedure

The initial recovery period typically spans 1 to 2 weeks, during which patients may experience some bruising and swelling around the eyes and the small, inconspicuous incisions, which gradually subsides. Keeping the head elevated, applying cold compresses to reduce swelling, and wearing large, dark sunglasses will help alleviate discomfort. You may also be prescribed medication for pain management. You will be given detailed post-procedure care instructions and we will check in with you regularly to ensure you are doing well during recovery. And, of course, you can contact us anytime with any questions or concerns.

What Happens During Blepharoplasty Surgery

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to remove or reposition excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle from the upper and/or lower eyelids to create a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Upper eyelid surgery typically involves a carefully placed incision within the natural crease of the eyelid. Through this incision, excess skin and small amounts of fat are removed or adjusted to reduce hooding and improve eyelid contour. The incision is then closed with fine sutures to minimize visible scarring.

Lower eyelid surgery is performed through either an external incision just below the lash line or an internal approach inside the eyelid. Fat may be removed or repositioned to reduce puffiness and under-eye bags, while skin tightening may be performed if needed to smooth the lower eyelid area.

In some cases, a combination approach is used to address both upper and lower eyelids in a single procedure. This allows for more balanced and comprehensive rejuvenation of the eye area.

The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and may use local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia depending on the patient’s needs and surgical plan.

Blepharoplasty Recovery Timeline

Recovery after eyelid surgery occurs gradually over several weeks as swelling and bruising improve and the tissues heal.

During the first few days, patients typically experience swelling, bruising, mild discomfort, and tightness around the eyes. Cold compresses, head elevation, and prescribed medications can help manage these symptoms. Many patients prefer to rest at home during this early stage.

By the end of the first week, most bruising and swelling begin to improve, and sutures may be removed if non-dissolvable stitches were used. Many patients feel comfortable returning to light daily activities at this point, although the eyes may still appear slightly swollen.

Within two to four weeks, most visible swelling continues to resolve, and patients often return to work and social activities. Eye makeup may typically be reintroduced once cleared by the surgeon.

Over the next one to three months, residual swelling gradually fades, and the final results of the procedure become more refined. The eyelids appear smoother, more refreshed, and more youthful as healing completes.

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Consult With Our Doctors To Discover How Eyelid Surgery Can Give You A Facial Refresh

If you are experiencing concerns related to drooping eyelids, a perpetually fatigued appearance, or wish to address under-eye puffiness, now is the right moment to explore the benefits of eyelid surgery in Fort Lauderdale, offered by Dr. Learn and Dr. Dudas. To initiate your journey towards rejuvenated eyes, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us. You can reach our team at (954) 393-0254, or for added convenience, connect with us online. Alternatively, feel free to visit our office during regular business hours to learn more about this transformative procedure. Your path to renewed confidence and well-being awaits.

Procedures Often Paired with Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery delivers beautiful results on its own, but combining it with other procedures can create a more balanced, refreshed overall appearance.

  • Facelift: Lifts and tightens the lower face and jawline for more complete facial rejuvenation.
  • Brow Lift: Elevates the brows to open up the upper face and reduce heaviness above the eyes.
  • Laser Skin Resurfacing: Improves skin texture, tone, and fine lines for smoother-looking results.
  • Dermal Fillers and Injectables: Restore volume and soften wrinkles around the eyes and surrounding areas.
  • Neck Lift: Refines the neck and jawline for a more youthful, cohesive profile.
  • Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery): Enhances facial balance by refining the nose alongside the eyes.

During your consultation, Dr. Learn and her team will help determine the best combination of treatments to achieve natural, harmonious results tailored to you.

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Functional vs Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery can be performed for cosmetic improvement, functional correction, or a combination of both.

Cosmetic blepharoplasty is focused on improving appearance. It addresses concerns such as puffiness, under-eye bags, drooping eyelids, and a tired or aged look. The goal is to create a more refreshed and youthful eye area while maintaining natural facial expression.

Functional blepharoplasty is performed when excess upper eyelid skin interferes with vision. In these cases, drooping skin may reduce peripheral vision or create a heavy feeling in the upper eyelids. Removing this excess tissue can improve both visual function and comfort.

Many patients fall somewhere between cosmetic and functional concerns. During consultation, the surgeon evaluates both appearance and eyelid function to determine the most appropriate surgical approach.

Blepharoplasty Results and Longevity

Blepharoplasty results are long-lasting and provide a noticeable improvement in the appearance of the eyes. Many patients enjoy their results for many years, with upper eyelid surgery often lasting 10 to 15 years or longer, depending on individual aging factors.

Lower eyelid surgery results are typically even longer-lasting since fat repositioning and removal address structural concerns that do not change quickly over time. However, the natural aging process will continue, which may gradually affect skin elasticity and facial volume.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, protecting the skin from sun exposure, and following a consistent skincare routine can help prolong results. While eyelid surgery does not stop aging, it significantly resets the appearance of the eye area for a more refreshed and youthful look.

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Patient Testimonials

I wanted to have lower eye Blepharoplasty. After searching on google I found Dr. Learn and decided to have a consultation. The office staff are professional and courteous. The office itself is clean and decorated nicely. Dr. Learn greeted me warmly and answered all my questions. I decided to have her perform my procedure. I made sure to follow all pre-Op and post-Op instructions they provided. It's been only one week since my surgery but I love my results! My scars are barely noticeable and my eyes look natural.

Sharnell K.

As a guy who has never “cared” for his “looks,” I took advantage of the consultation to discuss my face – specially around the eyes and jaw/cheek area. I was not happy with what I thought were droopy eyelids and sagging cheeks. Long story short, I decided on several procedures to immediately improve my “look.” Blepharoplasty - surgery for my upper eyes; and “Profound” - a laser non-surgical procedure to tighten up my cheeks and jawline. Voluma XC and Bellafill would thereafter be considered as dermal fillers. All procedures would be performed in the office with local anesthetic. Surgery day came and went before I knew it. First the blepharoplasty, then the “Profound” laser treatment. With my eyes, I could see an immediate improvement. My “look” has changed to the point that I cannot reuse old social media photos. I “look” that different. Thanks, Dr. Learn.

William L.
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Why Choose Dr. Lisa Learn For Eyelid Surgery?

Choosing Dr. Lisa J. Learn means entrusting your cosmetic journey to a team that prioritizes your well-being, health and comfort above all else. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Learn and her team work tightly together to take conservative action that gives amazing, natural-looking results. Dr. Learn is one of only a few Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine members of the American Society of Plastic Surgery. She is also one of the very few women plastic surgeons in the Fort Lauderdale area with the board-certification and experience to get beautiful outcomes for our patients. We understand that regaining confidence through making you look as young as you feel is vital to your sense of well-being. At our practice, you're not just a patient; you're family. Discover the warmth, expertise, and personalized care that sets us apart.

Eyelid Surgery FAQ

How long does the surgery take?

What are the risks and complications associated with eyelid surgery?

How long will the results last?

Can eyelid surgery be combined with other procedures?

How long does eyelid surgery take?

Will I have visible scars after blepharoplasty?

Is eyelid surgery painful?

How long does swelling last after eyelid surgery?

Can eyelid surgery improve vision?

Can upper and lower eyelid surgery be done at the same time?

When can I return to work after blepharoplasty?

How long does the surgery take?

The procedure usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on whether both upper and lower eyelids are being treated.

What are the risks and complications associated with eyelid surgery?

Potential risks include infection, bleeding, dry eyes, difficulty closing your eyes, noticeable scarring, and temporary or permanent changes in vision. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you in detail.

How long will the results last?

Results can be long-lasting, but aging and gravity will continue to affect your eyes. Many people find that the improvements last for years, and some may benefit from a touch-up procedure later on.

Can eyelid surgery be combined with other procedures?

Yes, eyelid surgery is often combined with other procedures such as a facelift, nose surgery, or neck lift to achieve more comprehensive rejuvenation.

How long does eyelid surgery take?

Eyelid surgery typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on whether the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both are being treated.

Will I have visible scars after blepharoplasty?

Incisions are placed in natural creases or inside the eyelid when possible, which helps make scars very discreet once healed.

Is eyelid surgery painful?

Most patients report mild discomfort rather than significant pain. Any discomfort is usually managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medication.

How long does swelling last after eyelid surgery?

Most swelling and bruising improve significantly within 1 to 2 weeks, although subtle swelling can last longer as healing continues.

Can eyelid surgery improve vision?

Yes, if excess upper eyelid skin is blocking the visual field, removing it can improve peripheral vision.

Can upper and lower eyelid surgery be done at the same time?

Yes, combining both procedures is common and allows for more comprehensive rejuvenation of the eye area.

When can I return to work after blepharoplasty?

Most patients return to work within 7 to 10 days, depending on the nature of their job and individual healing.

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