The skin surrounding the eyes is the thinnest and most delicate on the body. The constant movement of the eye, exposure to UV rays, aging and other factors can cause lines, wrinkles, stretching and sagging on the upper (and lower) eyelids. Blepharoplasty, or eyelid lift surgery, can remove excess skin and tighten the upper eyelids for a rejuvenated appearance. Our team at LM Medical NYC offers upper blepharoplasty, or eyelid lift surgery, at our state-of-the-art facilities in Manhattan.

Dr. Lesley Rabach is one of the best facial plastic surgeons in NYC and focuses her expertise on only the face. To transform the upper eyelids, she utilizes her extensive surgical skills and artistic talent to reshape the upper eyelid to portray vibrant, youthful eyes. An upper blepharoplasty can open and reshape the eyes, creating the energetic, beautiful appearance desired.

Benefits of Upper Eyelid Lift Surgery

When the skin on the upper eyelid loosens, sags and wrinkles, it can create a hooded appearance. The eyelid crease can disappear, and the eyes appear smaller in size. An upper eyelid lift surgery can remove the excess skin and fat, tightening the tissue to create a more youthful, open appearance to the eye. Once an upper blepharoplasty has been performed, the eyes look wider and more energetic with a youthful, natural appearance.

Both upper and lower blepharoplasty can be performed separately or together, depending on the patient. Some patients will pair an upper eyelid lift with a brow lift to rejuvenate the entire upper face. The incisions are carefully hidden for a discreet, natural appearance with little to no visible scars.

If you have upper eyelids that droop or sag, making you look older and tired, contact us at LM Medical NYC. We can schedule an eyelid lift consultation with Dr. Lesley to discuss upper blepharoplasty at one of our upscale clinics in Greenwich Village or the Upper East Side.

See More Blepharoplasty Before & Afters

Blepharoplasty FAQS

What is the Cost of Upper Blepharoplasty?
Upper Blepharoplasty starts at $10,000 but pricing for blepharoplasty varies, depending on the complexity of the case, and whether you will need an upper blepharoplasty, a lower blepharoplasty, or both. Exact costs can be obtained in a personal consultation with Dr. Rabach.

Am I a candidate for an upper blepharoplasty?

If you have loose, sagging, drooping or folding skin on your upper eyelids, you are a candidate. The drooping and folding will make your eyelids feel very heavy and might impair your vision.

What is the best age to have an upper blepharoplasty?

Some patients have upper eyelifts in their early thirties, but the majority will have them in their forties. Ultimately, age is not what matters. No matter the age, an upper eyelift will reduce the signs of aging and the effects of drooping.

Where are the incisions made for the upper blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty incisions are made in the crease of the upper eyelid. Sometimes they extend a bit to the outside of the eyelid into your crow’s feet crease. You will have a scar, but the eyelid heals better than any other part of the body because the skin is thin. The scars are visible only when your eyes are kept closed.

Will an upper blepharoplasty get rid of the deep lines on the sides of my eyes?

The treatment for deep lines on the side of your eyes (also known as crow’s feet) can be injected with a neurotoxin. An upper eyelift does not improve that area.

Will I have a surprised look or change the shape of my eye after my upper blepharoplasty?

You will not have a surprised look and the fundamental shape of your eyes will remain the same. A surprised look is the result of a browlift that makes the central portion of the brow too high. And your eyes will look better and younger, so they will look different. But the shape will remain the same.

Are the results of an upper blepharoplasty permanent?

The skin or fat that is removed from your upper eyelids will be gone forever. In fifteen or twenty years you might decide to have a tweak, but the upper eyelift is permanent.

What form of anesthesia is used for an upper blepharoplasty?

We will be using local anesthesia for your upper eyelift. It is an in-office procedure that will take 2-4 hours depending on your recovery post-procedure. We recommend a designated friend or family member be on-call to pick you up or meet you at home.

Can I wear eyeglasses or contacts right after an upper blepharoplasty?

Eyeglasses can be worn right after your blepharoplasty. We actually recommend you bring your eyeglasses or a pair of sunglasses with you to cover your eyes after surgery. This is a perfect way to mask your surgery. We recommend you wait a week before wearing your contact lenses.

Will I bruise after my upper blepharoplasty?

Some patients are more prone to bruising and swelling. The severity of bruising will differ from person to person. Bruising will decrease with icing and tends to resolve within 1-2 weeks.

Is recovery painful?

You will not receive any pain meds after surgery since an upper blepharoplasty is one of the most painless surgeries. You will feel discomfort but your recovery and results will be seen quickly.

How soon can I go to work?

You can work the day after your upper blepharoplasty. But the stitches don’t come out for one week, and there can be swelling and/or bruising around your eyes. If you can wear tinted glasses or if you do not mind if someone sees you like that, then you can return to work immediately. Otherwise plan on taking about a week off of work.

When can I resume exercise?

We recommend you resume regular exercise after a minimum of 2 weeks.

When can I shower/take a bath?

It is okay to take a shower the night of your upper blepharoplasty.

Are there any side-effects from blepharoplasty?

You might experience mild redness, swelling, and some bruising at the incision sites. You may also be sensitive to harsh light. Cool compresses and keeping your head elevated helps reduce the swelling. It is normal to feel some soreness for several days.

Is blepharoplasty covered by health insurance?

Blepharoplasty procedures are considered cosmetic are not typically covered by health insurance.

When do the stitches need to be removed?

The sutures will come out in 4-6 days after surgery.