Upper Blepharoplasty
If your eyes feel heavier than they used to, or your reflection looks more tired than you actually feel, it may not be your imagination. Upper blepharoplasty, also known as upper eyelid surgery, is one of the most precise ways to refresh the eye area by addressing excess skin and droopy eyelids. At MidAmerica Plastic Surgery & Medical Spa in Glen Carbon, Dr. Ryan Diederich helps patients restore a more awake, natural look without changing what makes them recognizable.
Upper blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess eyelid skin, refines fat pads, and restores a clean, defined eyelid crease to improve both appearance and, in some cases, vision. It focuses on the upper eyelids, where redundant upper eyelid skin can create heaviness or even impaired vision.
In addition to cosmetic blepharoplasty, some patients pursue upper eyelid blepharoplasty to improve peripheral vision when excess eyelid skin begins to interfere with sight. Whether for functional or cosmetic reasons, the goal is the same: a smoother, lighter upper lid that looks refreshed and authentic.
Upper Blepharoplasty | Description |
|---|---|
| Best for | Droopy eyelids, excess eyelid skin, impaired vision |
| Treatment type | Surgical eyelid procedure |
| Downtime | About two weeks of social recovery |
| Pain level | Mild to moderate |
| Treatment length | 1–2 hours |
| When results appear | Initial improvement in 2–3 weeks |
| How long results last | Many years, often long-term |
| Cost | Varies based on customization |
Upper eyelid blepharoplasty directly targets structural changes in the eyelids that affect both appearance and function.
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Upper blepharoplasty is designed specifically for the upper eyelids, where sagging skin and excess fat tend to accumulate. The procedure restores a natural eyelid crease and improves contour without affecting surrounding facial features.
(when combined)
We frequently pair upper eyelid surgery with a lower blepharoplasty. If you have under-eye bags or puffiness casting heavy shadows, addressing both at once keeps the whole eye area looking balanced and cohesive.
(when combined)
Sometimes the eyelid isn't the only thing crowding the eye. If your brow sits a little low, it can push that skin downward, making your eyelid look heavier than it actually is. We often pair this procedure with a subtle brow lift or some targeted neuromodulators. Elevating the frame around your eyes opens the whole area up, making you look rested and naturally alert.
Upper eyelid surgery offers both visual and functional improvements, making it one of the most impactful facial procedures with relatively minimal downtime.
A good candidate for upper eyelid blepharoplasty is someone bothered by excess skin or heaviness in the upper lids and is in good overall health.
Before your procedure, you’ll start with an initial consultation where we review your medical history and talk through your goals in detail. In the weeks leading up to surgery, you’ll be asked to stop smoking and avoid any medications or supplements that could increase bleeding. It’s also important to plan ahead, arrange for someone to drive you home and help out during those first couple of days.
At home, you’ll want to have a few essentials ready, like prescribed eye drops and cold compresses to keep you comfortable. Most patients also plan to take a little time off work and focus on recovery, keeping their head elevated as they heal to help minimize swelling and support the best possible outcome.
Upper eyelid surgery is a precise, controlled procedure performed in our fully accredited operating room. Since it is an in-office procedure, you will be able to go home shortly after your procedure is finished.
Most patients are comfortable with local anesthesia and light sedation, though general anesthesia is available depending on preference and complexity.
Swelling and bruising are expected but manageable, with most patients returning to normal routines within about two weeks.
Most patients feel comfortable being seen in public after 10–14 days once the bruising fades.
Light activity can resume within a few days, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for several weeks.
Keep your head elevated, use prescribed eye drops, avoid rubbing the eyelids, and follow all aftercare instructions closely to reduce swelling and support healing.
You’ll notice early improvements within the first two weeks, though final results develop gradually as swelling resolves.
Typical timeline:
Upper blepharoplasty results are long-lasting. While the aging process continues, most patients enjoy their results for many years. Maintaining healthy skin and avoiding excessive sun exposure can help preserve your outcome.
Scars from upper eyelid surgery are carefully placed within the natural eyelid crease, making them difficult to see once healed. Over time, they typically fade to a thin, nearly invisible line. Proper aftercare and sun protection help optimize healing.
Treatment | Best For | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Blepharoplasty | Excess skin and drooping lids | Removes skin surgically |
| Brow Lift | Drooping brow position | Lifts forehead and brow |
| Non-surgical treatments | Mild laxity | Temporary results only |
Yes, many patients combine upper eyelid surgery with procedures like a brow lift to address the upper face more comprehensively. In some cases, fat grafting or lower eyelid procedures may be recommended for balance.
Dr. Ryan Diederich is a board-certified plastic surgeon known throughout the Glen Carbon and greater St. Louis area for his attention to detail and natural-looking results. At MidAmerica, upper eyelid surgery is never rushed or standardized. Each procedure is carefully planned to respect your anatomy, preserve function, and deliver refined outcomes that don’t look surgical.
Patients appreciate the combination of surgical precision, honest communication, and a team that stays involved from consultation through recovery.
If your upper eyelids are affecting how you look or how you see, it may be time to explore your options. Schedule your consultation today with MidAmerica Plastic Surgery & Medical Spa in Glen Carbon and take the first step toward a refreshed, natural appearance.
Dr. Diederich is a Southern Illinois native realizing his dream of giving back to the community. He helps patients feel and look their best with his surgical skills and compassionate care.
Costs vary based on the complexity of your procedure and whether additional treatments are combined. A detailed quote is provided during consultation.
For patients interested in financing, MidAmerica Plastic Surgery & Medical Spa is proud to offer both CareCredit and PatientFi. Let us know during your consultation if you would like to learn more about these resources.
Most patients experience mild discomfort rather than pain, which is well-managed with medication.
Risks include swelling, bruising, dry eyes, or temporary vision changes. Seek medical attention immediately if severe symptoms occur.
Results typically last for many years, though natural aging continues.
Most patients return to normal routines within about two weeks.
Weight changes don’t typically affect eyelid surgery results significantly, though overall facial appearance may shift.
