What Is Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)?
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic or functional procedure that removes excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper or lower eyelids.
The goal is to create a refreshed, youthful appearance and, in some cases, improve vision if drooping lids obstruct sight.
For a deeper dive into the basics, visit our detailed Eyelid Surgery Guide.
Why Do People Choose Eyelid Surgery?
Cosmetic Reasons
Many patients seek eyelid surgery to:
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Reduce puffiness or bags under the eyes
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Eliminate drooping upper eyelids
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Create a brighter, more alert look
Our post on The Transformative Benefits of Blepharoplasty explains how these changes impact overall appearance.
Functional Reasons
Eyelid surgery can also improve vision for those with ptosis or excessive skin.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons confirms that functional blepharoplasty is often covered by insurance when medically necessary.
What Problems Can Eyelid Surgery Solve?
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Sagging eyelids that make you look tired
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Bags under the eyes that don’t respond to skincare
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Impaired vision from drooping upper eyelids
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Excess skin interfering with makeup application
Learn about identifying these concerns in our post on Sagging Eyelids: You Might Need an Eyelid Lift.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?
You may be a candidate if:
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You are in good health and a non-smoker
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You have realistic expectations
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You have noticeable eyelid drooping, puffiness, or bags
Review our Eyelid Surgery FAQs to see if this is right for you.
Types of Eyelid Surgery
Upper Eyelid Surgery
Targets excess skin and fat in the upper eyelids, improving both appearance and vision.
Lower Eyelid Surgery
Removes or repositions fat to reduce under-eye bags.
Combined Eyelid Surgery
Addresses both areas for a comprehensive rejuvenation.
Read more about Upper vs. Lower Blepharoplasty.
How Is Eyelid Surgery Performed?
The procedure typically involves:
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Consultation – Discuss goals and review medical history.
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Marking and Anesthesia – Local anesthesia or sedation is administered.
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Incisions – Made in the natural eyelid creases to minimize visible scarring.
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Tissue Adjustment – Fat is removed or repositioned, skin is tightened.
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Closure – Fine sutures are placed to promote discreet healing.
For a step-by-step view, visit What Happens Before, During, and After Eyelid Surgery.
Recovery After Eyelid Surgery
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Initial swelling and bruising: 7–10 days
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Stitches removal: Around 5–7 days
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Back to work: Within 1–2 weeks
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Final results: Visible after a few months
Our post on Recovery Tips for Eyelid Surgery provides helpful guidelines.
The Mayo Clinic’s blepharoplasty overview also covers recovery expectations.
Risks and Considerations
Like all surgeries, eyelid surgery carries some risks, including:
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Infection
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Dry eyes
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Scarring
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Temporary blurred vision
We discuss these in detail in Is Blepharoplasty Surgery Worth It?.
Cost of Eyelid Surgery in Houston
The cost depends on:
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Upper, lower, or combined procedure
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Surgeon’s expertise
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Facility and anesthesia fees
See our guide on Awakening the Sparkle: Costs and Benefits of Eyelid Surgery for more details.
For national averages, consult RealSelf’s blepharoplasty cost breakdown.
Combining Eyelid Surgery with Other Procedures
Some patients choose to combine eyelid surgery with:
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Facelift (Everything You Need to Know About a Facelift)
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Brow lift (Brow Lift vs. Eyelid Surgery)
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Skin resurfacing (Treat Facial Flaws with Laser Resurfacing)
Why Choose Dr. Ben Cilento for Eyelid Surgery in Houston?
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Dual board-certified in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery
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Decades of surgical experience with hundreds of successful eyelid procedures
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Patient-focused approach with advanced techniques for minimal scarring
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State-of-the-art facility serving Houston, Spring, and The Woodlands
Learn more on our Best Plastic Surgeon in Houston page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do eyelid lift results last?
Most results last 5–10 years, depending on genetics, skin quality, and lifestyle habits.
Will there be visible scars?
Scars are usually hidden in the natural creases of the eyelids and fade over time.
Is eyelid surgery painful?
Most patients report mild discomfort, which is easily managed with medication.
See more in our Common Questions About Eyelid Surgery.
Ready to Brighten Your Eyes?
If you’re searching for eyelid surgery in Houston, Dr. Ben Cilento at Cilento Facial Plastics offers expertise, artistry, and a personalized approach.
Whether your goal is cosmetic enhancement or functional improvement, your journey starts with a consultation.