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Upper Blepharoplasty Before-and-After:
Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Orange County
Upper blepharoplasty, or upper eyelid surgery, is an ideal cosmetic procedure for individuals with droopy or sagging eyelids, which can make them appear older or constantly fatigued. Upper blepharoplasty can also provide functional benefits and improve the field of vision for those whose eyesight is obstructed by sagging skin.
At Wave Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Laser Center, located in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Orange County, we specialize in providing long-lasting, natural results for patients seeking to rejuvenate their eyes with upper blepharoplasty. Explore our patient experiences and transformations through our before-and-after gallery below.
Learn More: What Is Eyelid Surgery?
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Before and After Patient Gallery
Visit our before and after patient gallery and our transformation gallery to view actual patient results from upper eyelid procedures and other cosmetic surgical procedures performed at Wave Plastic Surgery. These images showcase the transformative effects of blepharoplasty and can help you develop realistic expectations for your results.
See more Blepharoplasty Results in our Before & After gallery!
Related: Your Top 5 Questions About Upper Eyelid Surgery
What is Upper Blepharoplasty?
Upper blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgery that rejuvenates the upper eyelids by removing excess skin, muscle, and fat. As we age, the skin around the eyes can lose its elasticity, leading to droopy or sagging eyelids—conditions that may make you look tired or older than you feel. In some cases, the excess skin can obstruct your vision, making daily tasks more difficult.
During the procedure, a small incision is made along the upper eyelid’s natural crease, ensuring any scarring is hidden. The surgeon removes or repositions tissue through this incision to create a more defined, open eyelid contour. The result is a refreshed appearance with eyes that look more youthful and alert.
Upper blepharoplasty is designed to improve your appearance, confidence, and overall quality of life. Many patients find that after the surgery, they feel more awake and vibrant, with eyes that better reflect their inner energy. This procedure is an excellent option for those looking to address cosmetic concerns and vision issues caused by sagging eyelids.
Learn More: Understanding Aging Upper Eyelid Surgery
Get Your Consultation Today
Give us a call today to schedule a consultation with one of the plastic surgery experts at Wave Plastic Surgery to learn more about the procedure and the thread face lift cost.
Preparing for Your Upper Eyelid Surgery in California
Proper preparation is essential for achieving the best possible results from your upper eyelid surgery, also known as upper blepharoplasty. Here’s what you should consider to ensure a smooth experience and a successful outcome:
- Consultation and Pre-Surgery Evaluation: Before your surgery, you’ll have a detailed consultation with your surgeon. During this time, your surgeon will assess your eyelid structure, discuss your goals, and review your medical history. Being open about any medical conditions, allergies, or medications you’re currently taking is crucial. This information helps the surgeon create a personalized surgical plan tailored to your needs.
- Stop Smoking: If you smoke, it’s important to quit at least a few weeks before the procedure. Smoking can impair circulation and slow down the healing process, increasing the risk of complications. Quitting in advance can significantly improve your recovery and the overall outcome of the surgery.
- Avoid Certain Medications: In the weeks before your surgery, your surgeon will provide a list of medications and supplements to avoid. Blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain herbal supplements, can increase the risk of bleeding during and after the surgery. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s guidelines to minimize potential risks carefully.
- Arrange for Post-Surgery Assistance: Upper eyelid surgery is typically outpatient, meaning you can go home the same day. However, you’ll need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery, as you may be groggy from the anesthesia. Additionally, having a friend or family member assist you for the first 24-48 hours post-surgery can make your recovery more comfortable.
- Prepare Your Home for Recovery: Before your surgery, take some time to set up a comfortable recovery space at home. This might include having pillows to prop up your head, stocking up on prescribed medications or eye drops, and ensuring easy access to things you’ll need, like water, snacks, and entertainment.
- Plan for Recovery Time: Depending on your work and daily activities, you might need time off to recover fully. It’s a good idea to plan for at least a week of rest, during which you should avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and anything that could strain your eyes.
Related: How To Choose The Right Eyelid Shape for Your Upper Blepharoplasty
Who is a Good Candidate for Upper Blepharoplasty?
- Adults with Eyelid Sagging: Upper blepharoplasty is most commonly sought by individuals experiencing sagging or droopy eyelids. Excess skin hanging over your upper eyelids can create an older or more tired appearance and may even obstruct your vision. Those dealing with these issues are often excellent candidates for this surgery, as it can effectively remove the excess tissue, resulting in a more youthful and alert appearance.
- Individuals in Good Overall Health: To be considered for upper blepharoplasty, you should be generally healthy. This includes being free from any chronic conditions that could complicate surgery or impede the healing process, such as uncontrolled diabetes or severe cardiovascular issues. Your surgeon will assess your medical history to ensure that you can safely undergo the procedure.
- Non-Smokers or Those Willing to Quit: Smoking can significantly impact your body’s ability to heal after surgery. It affects circulation and can lead to complications such as delayed healing or increased scarring. Therefore, the best candidates for upper blepharoplasty are non-smokers. If you do smoke, you must be willing to quit at least several weeks before and after the procedure to ensure a smooth recovery.
- No History of Severe Eye Conditions: If you have a history of severe eye conditions, such as glaucoma, dry eye syndrome, or other ocular issues, you’ll need to discuss this with your surgeon. Some eye conditions might make upper blepharoplasty more complex or increase the risk of complications, so a thorough evaluation is necessary.
Get Your Consultation Today
Give us a call today to schedule your consultation with one of our plastic surgeons at Wave Plastic Surgery.
The Upper Blepharoplasty Procedure
- Consultation: The process begins with an in-depth consultation, during which your surgeon will evaluate your eyelid structure and skin quality and discuss your goals. They will also review your medical history to ensure you’re a good candidate for the procedure.
- Anesthesia: On the day of the surgery, you’ll be administered either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on your preference and the surgeon’s recommendation.
- Incision: The surgeon will make a small incision along the natural crease of your upper eyelid, ensuring that any scarring is well hidden within the fold.
- Tissue Removal: Excess skin, muscle, and fat are carefully removed or repositioned to create a more youthful and alert appearance.
- Closure: The incision is closed with fine sutures, which will be removed in about a week.
- Recovery: After surgery, you’ll be instructed on caring for your eyes, managing discomfort, and scheduling follow-up visits. Most patients experience swelling and bruising for the first few days, but these effects will gradually subside.
Related: Upper Blepharoplasty Suture Technique at Wave
Upper Eyelid Surgery Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from upper eyelid surgery, or upper blepharoplasty, is generally a smooth process, but it’s essential to adhere closely to your surgeon’s aftercare instructions to achieve the best results. Here’s what you can expect and how to care for yourself during the recovery period:
- Swelling and Bruising: After surgery, it’s normal to experience swelling and bruising around the eyes. These effects typically peak within the first few days and gradually diminish over the next one to two weeks. To help reduce swelling, apply cold compresses as your surgeon recommends and keep your head elevated, even while sleeping.
- Follow-Up Visits: After your surgery, you’ll have scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress. These visits ensure that your eyes are healing correctly and that sutures are removed, usually within a week after the procedure. During these appointments, your surgeon will also address any concerns or questions you may have about your recovery.
- Activity Restrictions: To promote proper healing and minimize the risk of complications, you’ll need to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending over for at least a week following the surgery. These actions can increase blood flow to the eyes, potentially leading to increased swelling or bleeding. It’s also advisable to refrain from activities that might strain your eyes, such as extensive reading or screen time, during the initial recovery phase.
- Eye Care: Proper eye care is critical during recovery. Your surgeon may prescribe eye drops to keep your eyes lubricated and reduce the risk of infection. It’s important to use these drops as directed and follow any additional care instructions provided. This might include gently cleaning the incision sites and avoiding rubbing or touching the eyes.
- Protecting Your Eyes: Your eyes will be more sensitive during the recovery period, so it’s important to protect them from environmental factors like bright sunlight, wind, and dust. Wearing sunglasses when you go outside and avoiding harsh environments can help protect your eyes as they heal.
- Protecting Your Eyes: Your eyes will be more sensitive during the recovery period, so it’s important to protect them from environmental factors like bright sunlight, wind, and dust. Wearing sunglasses when you go outside and avoiding harsh environments can help protect your eyes as they heal.
Related: 5 Do’s & Don’ts After Your Upper Eyelid Surgery
Related: How Long Is Upper Blepharoplasty Recovery?
What Results Can You Expect With Upper Eyelid Surgery in Los Angeles & San Francisco?
One of the most exciting aspects of upper blepharoplasty at Wave Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, Newport Beach, and San Francisco is the dramatic transformation it can achieve. Below, we’ll discuss what you can expect before and after the surgery when you choose one of our renowned California plastic surgery locations.
View More: Transformation Gallery: Before & After
Before Surgery:
- Appearance: Before the procedure, you may notice sagging skin that makes your eyes look hooded or tired. In some cases, the excess skin may even obstruct your field of vision.
- Skin Quality: The skin on your upper eyelids may appear loose and lack elasticity, contributing to an older, fatigued appearance.
- Vision Obstruction: If the drooping skin is severe, it might impair your peripheral vision, making daily activities like reading or driving more challenging.
After Surgery:
- Refreshed Look: Patients typically enjoy a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance after surgery. Their eyes look more open, alert, and vibrant.
- Improved Vision: Upper blepharoplasty can significantly improve the ability to see clearly for those who experience vision obstruction due to excess skin.
- Scar Discreetness: The procedure's scars are well-concealed within the natural eyelid crease and fade over time, becoming almost invisible.
- Enhanced Confidence: Many patients feel more confident and satisfied with their appearance after the surgery.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re considering upper eyelid surgery in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Orange County, contact Wave Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Laser Center to schedule a consultation. Our world-renowned team is dedicated to helping you achieve a natural, youthful appearance through personalized and state-of-the-art cosmetic procedures. Let us help you look and feel your best.
Why Choose Wave for Upper Eyelid Surgery in California?
Schedule Your Eyelid Surgery Consultation
Contact us today to schedule your upper eyelid surgery consultation with one of our plastic surgeons at Wave Plastic Surgery.
Our Blepharoplasty Specialist Surgeons
Peter Lee
M.D., F.A.C.S.
Dr. Peter is CEO and Chief Surgeon of WAVE Plastic Surgery Center with over 20 years of plastic surgery experience, overlooking 30K+ successful plastic surgery cases. He has mentored master surgeons around the world in state-of-the-art techniques, and has been inducted into the RealSelf 100 & 500 Hall of Fame.
His many accolades and first-hand results are evidence of Peter’s expertise.
Ben Lee
M.D., F.A.C.S.
Throughout 20+ years in aesthetic plastic surgery, Dr. Ben Lee has always been passionate about using his skills to impart a lasting, positive impact on the lives of his patients.
“Time and time again, I have witnessed dramatic improvements in a patient’s confidence and well-being after a relatively minor cosmetic or reconstructive procedure. As a surgeon, that brings me great joy.” — Dr. Ben Lee
Denise Wong
M.D., F.A.C.S.
With a focus on Upper Eyelid Surgery, Dr. Wong has a deep understanding of the unique anatomy of the eyelid which is critical in performing this highly technical and intricate surgery. She is experienced in approaching various specific eyelid characteristics for different ethnicities, especially Asian cultures.
She uses precise microplastic surgical techniques to enhance the natural shape and inherent beauty of your eyes, making them appear bigger and brighter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eyelid Surgery
Complete healing from upper blepharoplasty typically takes about 4 to 6 weeks, although the most noticeable recovery happens within the first two weeks. During this time, swelling and bruising will gradually subside, and your eyes will continue to improve in appearance. While you can resume most daily activities after about a week, following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions carefully is important to ensure optimal healing and the best possible results.
Most patients start to look and feel more like themselves about 10 to 14 days after the surgery. By this time, most of the swelling and bruising have diminished, allowing you to go out in public and return to work with confidence. However, subtle improvements will develop over the next few weeks as your eyes fully heal, leaving you with a refreshed and natural appearance.
There isn’t a specific “good age” for blepharoplasty, as the need for the procedure depends more on individual factors like genetics, skin elasticity, and drooping or sagging eyelids. However, many patients begin considering upper blepharoplasty in their late 30s to 50s when signs of aging around the eyes become more noticeable.
If you’re experiencing droopy eyelids that make you look tired or affect your vision, it might be the right time to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options. Call us today at 888-674-3001 to schedule your consultation.
Right after upper eyelid surgery, it’s normal to experience some swelling, bruising, and redness around the eyes. Your eyelids may appear slightly puffy, and you might notice mild discomfort or tightness. While this can be a bit unsettling, it’s important to remember that these effects are temporary and a natural part of the healing process. Most of the initial swelling and bruising will begin to subside within the first few days, and you’ll gradually start to see the refreshed, more youthful look you desire as you heal.
Yes, upper blepharoplasty can make your eyes appear larger and more open. The procedure removes excess skin and tissue drooping over the eyelids, creating a hooded or tired appearance. By lifting and reshaping the eyelids, blepharoplasty helps reveal more of the eye’s natural contour, giving the illusion of bigger, more alert eyes.
However, the goal is to enhance your natural beauty while maintaining a balanced and harmonious look so that the results will be natural-looking and long-lasting. If you want a more refreshed and youthful appearance with eyes that look more open, upper blepharoplasty could be an excellent option. Call today to schedule your eyelid surgery consultation at 888-674-3001.
Contact Wave Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Laser Center today to schedule your upper eyelid Surgery consultation with one of our plastic surgeons at Wave Plastic Surgery.
Medcially Reviewed By Dr. Ben Lee
Proudly using his creativity to help patients regain a sense of wholeness and confidence, Dr. Ben Lee takes a very patient-centered approach to care.
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