Blepharoplasty: How Long-Lasting Is the Result and Who Is This Surgery Suitable For?

Blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) is one of the most popular plastic surgeries worldwide. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), more than 115,000 eyelid surgeries are performed annually in the U.S. alone. It helps eliminate drooping eyelids, under-eye bags, and gives a more youthful appearance.

But how long does the effect last? Is this procedure right for you? Let’s find out.

What Is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a surgical correction of the eyelids aimed at removing excess skin, fat pockets, and tightening tissues. It can be performed as a standalone procedure or in combination with a facelift.

Main Types of Blepharoplasty:

• Upper blepharoplasty – eliminates excess skin and fat pockets, making the eyes look more open.
• Lower blepharoplasty – removes under-eye bags and dark circles, tightens the skin.
• Transconjunctival blepharoplasty – a minimally invasive method without external incisions, used to remove fat pockets.
• Circular blepharoplasty – a comprehensive correction of both upper and lower eyelids.

Interesting fact: According to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), more than 90% of patients are satisfied with their blepharoplasty results and report a significant improvement in their appearance and quality of life.

How Is the Surgery Performed?

Preoperative Preparation

Before the surgery, the patient is required to:
✅ Undergo a general blood test and a coagulation test (to rule out clotting issues).
✅ Consult an ophthalmologist (if necessary).
✅ Refrain from smoking and alcohol for 2 weeks before the procedure.

Procedure Steps

Blepharoplasty is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation (the patient is awake but relaxed). In some cases, general anesthesia may be used.

Duration of the surgery:

• Upper blepharoplasty – 30-45 minutes.
• Lower blepharoplasty – 40-60 minutes.
• Circular blepharoplasty – 1.5-2 hours.

Stages of the surgery:

1.Marking the skin in a sitting position.
2. Administration of anesthesia.
3. Making the incision:

• On the upper eyelid – along the natural crease.
• On the lower eyelid – under the lash line or through the conjunctiva (leaving no external scar).

4. Removal of excess skin and fat pockets.
5. Suturing with cosmetic stitches.
6. Cooling the eye area to reduce swelling.

Stitches are removed after 5-7 days, but dissolvable sutures may not require removal.

Interesting fact: Modern laser and radiofrequency technologies help minimize blood loss and accelerate healing after surgery.

How Long Does the Effect of Blepharoplasty Last?

The average duration of the effect is 10-15 years. However, studies show that in 30-40% of patients, the results last more than 20 years.

Factors influencing the longevity of the results:
✅ Age – younger skin retains results longer.
✅ Genetics – predisposition to puffiness and ptosis affects the outcome.
✅ Lifestyle – smoking, stress, and lack of sleep accelerate aging.
✅ Skincare – regular moisturizing and sun protection prolong the effect.

A study in the British Journal of Plastic Surgery found that 60% of patients retained the effects of upper blepharoplasty even 12 years after surgery.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Blepharoplasty?

Indications for surgery:
✔️ Drooping upper eyelids that restrict vision.
✔️ Deep wrinkles around the eyes.
✔️ “Bags” and puffiness under the eyes.
✔️ Significant eyelid asymmetry.
✔️ Genetic predisposition to fat pockets.

Contraindications:
❌ Ophthalmic diseases (glaucoma, dry eye syndrome).
❌ Uncontrolled diabetes.
❌ Blood clotting disorders.
❌ Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
❌ Oncological diseases.

Interesting fact: According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), about 70% of patients undergo upper blepharoplasty not only for aesthetic reasons but also to improve peripheral vision.

Recovery Process

Recovery after blepharoplasty takes 10 to 30 days.

Main stages:

• 3-5 days – swelling, bruising, mild eye dryness.
• 7-10 days – suture removal, reduced swelling.
• 2-3 weeks – the skin looks natural again.
• 3-6 months – final result.

A study by the American Academy of Ophthalmology found that complications occur in less than 5% of patients, with the most common being dry eyes and temporary eyelid asymmetry.

Blepharoplasty is an effective way to rejuvenate your look, providing long-lasting results for up to 15 years or even longer.

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