Upper Eyelid Surgery in San Francisco, CA

Upper eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is not just about rejuvenating your appearance; it's about rediscovering a brighter, more refreshed version of yourself without excess lid skin. Dr. Charles K. Lee, our board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon at L Plastic Surgery in San Francisco, CA, specializes in upper eyelid surgery, offering both men and women the opportunity to look more youthful and revitalized.

Upper eyelid surgery at L Plastic Surgery in San Francisco, CA, offers a rejuvenating solution for droopy or sagging eyelids, enhancing both appearance and vision. Additional benefits include:

• Improves vision by removing excess skin
• Reduces puffiness and tired appearance
• Provides a refreshed, youthful look
• Minimal scarring and quick recovery

The ideal candidates for upper eyelid surgery are individuals who:

• Show signs of aging due to eyelid issues
• Experience vision problems caused by droopy eyelids
• Have droopy or down-turned eyelids due to aging or genetics
• Suffer from bags under the eyes
• Seek a refreshed, rejuvenated appearance
• Desire a natural look

If you identify with any of these factors, consider a consultation with Dr. Lee to explore the possibilities of enhancing your eye appearance.

During the upper eyelid surgery procedure, Dr. Lee makes an incision within the natural fold of the eyelid. The incision is extended outward to address any extraneous skin folds present on the outer portion of the upper lid. Excess fat and skin are meticulously removed, and the incision is closed with thin sutures, that are removed by Dr. Lee or his trained assistant 1 week post operation. In some cases, both the upper and lower eyelids may require attention to effectively address all issues, making the surgery last approximately three hours when combined.

Upper eyelid surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia and will not require you to be under general anesthesia. Following the surgery, patients can anticipate bruising and swelling, which can be managed with ice packs, medicated eye ointments, or eye drops, in addition to elevating the head. These symptoms usually subside within a few days. Most patients experience a straightforward recovery, allowing them to return to their normal activities within a week. The results of the surgery are natural-looking, creating a more youthful and refreshed appearance. Moreover, the incisions are discreetly placed inside the eyelid, ensuring that scars remain hidden.

What is the difference between having an upper or lower eyelid surgery?

For lower eyelid surgery, the incision is typically placed along the lash line to access and remove excess fat and tissue. Patients with puffy lower lids and good skin tone may benefit from transconjunctival blepharoplasty, a special technique. Upper eyelid surgery primarily corrects hanging, aged skin and tissues that contribute to an older appearance or vision impairment.

Will an upper eyelid surgery fix wrinkles and Crow's feet?

Wrinkles on the forehead and around the eyes, such as Crow's feet, may require treatments like a brow lift or facelift, as eyelid surgery primarily focuses on the eyelids. Dr. Lee may recommend combining eyelid surgery with nonsurgical treatments, such as BOTOX, to address these issues effectively.

What about nonsurgical treatments instead of eyelid surgery?

While nonsurgical skin tightening procedures or injectable treatments offer mild, short-term improvements, they may not be suitable for moderate-to-severe loose skin. Eyelid surgery is the better choice for long-lasting results. Dr. Lee can create a personalized treatment plan that combines surgical and nonsurgical procedures for the best outcome.

Can I still wear my glasses after upper blepharoplasty?

Yes, although you may need to be a little careful during the first few days of recovery depending on where your glasses rest. Most patients can continue wearing their glasses shortly after surgery, but our team may recommend temporary adjustments if they place pressure on the healing incision sites. If you wear contact lenses, you'll likely need to wait until your eyes have healed enough to wear them comfortably again. We'll provide personalized guidance based on your procedure and recovery.

Am I too young for an upper bleph?

Not necessarily. While upper blepharoplasty is often associated with aging, some younger adults naturally have excess upper eyelid skin or inherited eyelid characteristics that make them appear tired or interfere with their vision. The decision is based less on your age and more on your anatomy, symptoms, and goals. During your consultation, our team will evaluate your eyelids and discuss whether surgery—or perhaps a nonsurgical alternative—is the most appropriate option for you.

Will my eyes look too wide open after upper eyelid surgery?

This is one of the most common concerns patients have, and when upper blepharoplasty is performed thoughtfully, the goal is not to make your eyes look larger or surprised. Instead, the procedure is designed to remove excess skin while preserving your natural eye shape and facial expressions. A personalized surgical approach helps create results that look refreshed, well-rested, and natural—so friends may notice you look more awake without realizing you've had surgery.

Don't let aging eyes hold you back. Upper eyelid surgery not only rejuvenates your appearance but also corrects obstructions caused by droopy eyelids. When you're ready to transform your eyes and overall look, contact us at 415.933.8330 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lee. Discover a brighter, more refreshed you today.
Schedule Appointment