Eye Procedures

Home » Surgical » Eyelid Surgery » Awake Blepharoplasty

Offered at Wave Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Orange County.

What Is Awake Blepharoplasty?

If you’ve been thinking about eyelid surgery but feel uneasy about general anesthesia, Awake Blepharoplasty might be the perfect solution. This procedure refreshes and lifts the eyelids using only local anesthesia with light sedation, meaning you stay comfortable and aware—without the grogginess or risks of being fully under.

At Wave Plastic Surgery, our team specializes in awake plastic surgery procedures, offering advanced techniques tailored to enhance the natural beauty of your eyes. With extensive expertise in eyelid surgeries and Asian eyelid aesthetics, our surgeons take a meticulous approach to achieving refreshed, balanced, and natural results. Whether you’re seeking a subtle lift or a more defined eyelid crease, we prioritize precision and artistry to deliver brighter, more youthful eyes—all with minimal downtime and a smooth recovery.

Benefits of Awake Blepharoplasty

Opting for Awake Plastic Surgery instead of a traditional eyelid lift offers several advantages:

  • Faster recovery: Less swelling and bruising means you’ll return to normal activities sooner.
  • Lower risk: Since you’re avoiding general anesthesia, there’s no risk of anesthesia-related side effects like nausea, dizziness, or memory fog.
  • Greater precision: Because you’re awake, your surgeon can fine-tune the procedure in real-time by having you open and close your eyes to ensure the most natural outcome.
  • Less post-surgery discomfort: Local anesthesia keeps the area numb, reducing pain during and after surgery.
  • More natural results: Less trauma to the tissues means smoother healing and less scarring.

For many patients, Awake Anesthesia provides a safe, effective way to achieve a refreshed, more youthful eye appearance—all under local anesthesia.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Awake Bleph?

Awake Eyelid Procedures are an excellent option for people who want to enhance their eyes without the risks of general anesthesia. You might be a good candidate if you:

1. Have sagging or puffy eyelids that make you look tired or aged.
2. Struggle with droopy upper eyelids (ptosis) that affect your vision.
3. Want to refine or enhance your eyelid crease, especially if you have a monolid.
4. Are generally healthy and prefer a quicker recovery with fewer risks.

If you’re unsure whether this approach is right for you, our team at Wave Plastic Surgery can help determine the best plan during a consultation.

How Does Blepharoplasty Under Local Anesthesia Work?

Awake Plastic Surgery is designed to be as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Here’s what to expect:

1. Numbing the area: Your surgeon will gently inject local anesthesia around your eyelids. You may also receive mild sedation to help you relax.
2. Precision eyelid contouring: Excess skin, fat, or muscle is carefully removed or repositioned to restore a youthful, well-balanced look.
3. Real-time adjustments: Because you’re awake, your surgeon may ask you to open and close your eyes during the procedure to ensure perfect symmetry.
4. Minimal incisions, faster healing: The incisions are placed in the natural creases of your eyelids, making them nearly invisible once healed.

How Long Does Eyelid Surgery Take?

Most Awake Blepharoplasty procedures take one to two hours, depending on whether you’re having upper, lower, or both eyelids treated. The complexity of the procedure and the amount of tissue being adjusted can also affect the duration. Because general anesthesia isn’t used, there’s no prolonged recovery period at the surgical center—patients can typically go home within an hour or so after the procedure. While some mild swelling and tightness are normal, most patients feel well enough to move around comfortably on the same day.

Quick Recovery & Aftercare

Healing after eyelid surgery under local anesthesia is usually smoother and quicker than traditional eyelid surgery. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Expect some swelling and bruising for the first few days, but it typically subsides within a week.
  • Give your eyes a break. Avoid excessive screen time, reading, or anything that strains your eyes for the first few days. This helps prevent unnecessary irritation.
  • Follow your aftercare instructions. Cold compresses, prescribed ointments, and keeping your head elevated while sleeping can all help speed recovery.
  • Pain is minimal. Most patients only need Tylenol or ibuprofen for discomfort—no strong pain meds are necessary.

Most people feel comfortable returning to light activities within a few days and regular routines within a week or two.

Natural-Looking Eyelid Lift Results

At Wave Plastic Surgery, our Awake Eyelid Lift technique enhances your natural features while maintaining a balanced, refreshed appearance. Patients typically see:

  • Brighter, more alert-looking eyes that appear naturally rejuvenated.
  • A smoother, more defined eyelid contour with improved symmetry.
  • A refined yet noticeable enhancement that complements your overall facial aesthetics.
  • Minimal scarring and long-lasting results thanks to precise surgical techniques and reduced tissue trauma.

While initial swelling subsides within the first couple of weeks, final results improve as the eyelids heal over the next few months. To see how our procedures have transformed patients’ appearances, visit our Before & After Gallery for tangible results from Wave Plastic Surgery.

Client Testimonials

Schedule Your Awake Blepharoplasty Consultationat Wave Plastic Surgery

If you’re considering eyelid surgery under local anesthesia, the team at Wave Plastic Surgery is here to help. With locations in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Francisco, our renowned eyelid surgeons specialize in Awake Plastic Surgery and advanced eyelid techniques designed to deliver stunning, natural results.

Ready to refresh your look? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes! Awake Blepharoplasty is a safe and effective alternative to traditional eyelid surgery. Local anesthesia numbs the area thoroughly, while light sedation keeps you relaxed, making the procedure comfortable.

Not at all. The numbing medication ensures you don’t feel any pain during the procedure, and most patients experience only mild discomfort during recovery—similar to having irritated eyes after a long day.

You’ll notice a difference immediately, but your eyelids will look their best after about four to six weeks once any residual swelling fades.

Give us a call today to schedule your consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons at Wave Plastic Surgery.

References

  • Ohana, O., Ayala-Haedo, J., Anagnostopolous, A., & Lee, W. W. (2021). Local Anesthesia Injection in Upper Blepharoplasty Surgery: A Side at a Time or Both Sides at Once? A Prospective Randomized Study. Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.], 47(2), 241–244. https://doi.org/10.1097/DSS.0000000000002718
  • Vagefi, M. R., Lin, C. C., McCann, J. D., & Anderson, R. L. (2008). Local anesthesia in oculoplastic surgery. Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery, 10(4), 246–249. https://doi.org/10.1001/archfaci.10.4.246

Subscribe to Receive Exclusive Email Specials

Specials and Announcements(Required)
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Specials and Announcements(Required)
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Get Your Consultation Today

Give us a call today to schedule your double eyelid surgery consultation with one of our plastic surgeons at Wave Plastic Surgery.

Our Double Eyelid Surgery Specialists

Plastic Surgeon Peter Lee

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 shining results are evidence of Peter’s expertise.

Plastic Surgeon Ben Lee

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

Plastic Surgeon Denise -Wong

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.

Medically Reviewed By Dr. Ben Lee

M.D., F.A.C.S.

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.

Learn More About Dr. Ben Lee

Frequently Asked Questions About Monolid and Double Eyelid

Monolid eyelids lack a visible crease above the lash line, while double eyelids have a distinct fold, making the eyes appear more open or rounded.

Yes, products like eyelid tape or glue can create a temporary crease on monolid eyes, giving the appearance of a double eyelid.

Double eyelid surgery, also known as Asian blepharoplasty, is generally permanent, but results may vary slightly over time due to natural aging.

Epicanthoplasty is a surgical procedure that reduces the inner corner fold (epicanthal fold) to make the eyes appear larger and more open, often done alongside double eyelid surgery.

Give us a call today to schedule your consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons at Wave Plastic Surgery.