Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) in Pittsburgh, PA

Eyelid surgery (technically called blepharoplasty) is a procedure to remove fat–usually along with excess skin and muscle—from the upper and lower eyelids. Eyelid surgery can correct drooping upper lids and puffy bags below your eyes—features that make you look older and more tired than you feel and may even interfere with your vision. However, it won’t remove Crow’s feet or other wrinkles, eliminate dark circles under your eyes, or lift sagging eyebrows. While it can add an upper eyelid crease to Asian eyes, it will not erase evidence of your ethnic or racial heritage. Blepharoplasty can be done alone or in conjunction with other facial surgery procedures such as a facelift or browlift. So, if you are struggling with excess skin and muscle over forehead or in the eyelid area, we are here to provide you with topnotch eyelid surgery Pittsburgh at Golla Center for plastic surgery

What is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty surgery in Pittsburgh is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance and function of the eyelids or in the eye area. It targets:

• Upper eyelids: Removes excess skin and fat that creates a hooded or droopy appearance.
• Lower eyelids: Addresses puffiness, under-eye bags, and sagging skin.

This procedure not only refreshes your facial features but can also improve vision by eliminating obstructive eyelid skin.

Benefits of Eyelid surgery in Pittsburgh

• Restores a youthful, alert appearance.
• Eliminates under-eye bags and sagging skin.
• Enhances peripheral vision obstructed by droopy eyelids.
• Boosts self-confidence with refreshed facial aesthetics.

Who is a Good Candidate for Blepharoplasty?

You may be a strong candidate for eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) if you have one or more of the following:

• Upper-lid heaviness or “hooded” skin that hides the natural crease or touches the lashes
• Lower-lid puffiness or bags that make you look tired even when you’re well-rested
• Visual field obstruction from excess upper-lid skin (often noticed while reading or driving)
• Healthy overall and nonsmoking—or willing to pause nicotine products before and after surgery as directed
• Stable eye surface (dry eye symptoms are mild/controlled) and no active eyelid or eye infections
• Realistic expectations and an interest in natural-looking improvement, not a changed identity

Sometimes it’s not only the eyelid. If the brow has descended, a conservative brow lift may be recommended with (or instead of) eyelid surgery for the most balanced, natural result. Your consultation will clarify which option fits your anatomy and goals.

Who should wait: uncontrolled dry eye, untreated blepharitis, active skin conditions around the lids, recent eye surgery, or medical issues that increase surgical risk (e.g., poorly controlled blood pressure or blood thinners that cannot be adjusted). These can often be optimized first so you can proceed safely.

What to Expect During Blepharoplasty Surgery

Before you arrive
You’ll review your plan, photos, and consent forms ahead of time. On the day, your surgeon marks the lids with you sitting upright to match your natural creases and smile lines.

Anesthesia & setting
Most blepharoplasties are performed in an accredited operating room with local anesthesia plus light sedation; some patients benefit from IV sedation or general anesthesia. You’ll be comfortable and closely monitored throughout.

During upper-lid blepharoplasty

• A fine incision is placed within the natural eyelid crease
• Precise removal or reshaping of excess skin and small pockets of fat
• Meticulous closure with tiny sutures to keep the scar hidden in the crease

During lower-lid blepharoplasty (if indicated)

• Transconjunctival approach (inside the eyelid) to address fat pads without an external scar, often combined with skin tightening procedures; or
• Subciliary approach (just beneath the lash line) when subtle skin/ muscle tightening is needed
• Modern techniques favor fat preservation or repositioning to avoid a hollow look
• Support procedures (e.g., canthopexy) may be added to maintain lower-lid shape and stability when appropriate

How long it takes
Upper lids typically take 45–60 minutes; upper + lower lids may take 90–150 minutes, depending on the plan.

Immediately after surgery
You’ll rest in recovery with cool compresses. Ointment may blur vision temporarily, and mild tightness or a “full” feeling around the eyes is common. You’ll go home the same day with a trusted adult.Follow-up
Most patients return within the first week for a check and, if applicable, suture removal. Your team will review activity limits, makeup/contacts timing, and return-to-work guidance based on your procedure and healing.

Pre-Surgery Tips for Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery

Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth procedure and recovery for eyelid surgery Pittsburgh:

1. Consultation: Meet with Dr. Golla to discuss your goals and medical history.
2. Medications: Avoid blood-thinning medications, aspirin, and certain supplements for two weeks prior to surgery.
3. Stop Smoking: Smoking can hinder healing, so it’s essential to quit several weeks before surgery.
4. Arrange Transportation: Plan for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

Post-Surgery Care and Tips

Proper aftercare accelerates healing and ensures optimal results:

1. Rest and Recovery: Use cold compresses to reduce swelling and rest with your head elevated.
2. Avoid Strain: Refrain from heavy lifting or strenuous activities for the first week.
3. Follow-Up: Attend all post-operative appointments with Dr. Golla for monitoring and care.

4. Protect Your Eyes: Use sunglasses to shield your eyes from sunlight and wind.

At Golla Center for Plastic Surgery & Spa, we combine cutting-edge surgical techniques with compassionate care to deliver exceptional results. Our board-certified plastic surgeons are renowned for their expertise, having performed thousands of successful cosmetic procedures.

Located in Pittsburgh, our state-of-the-art facility provides a welcoming and luxurious environment where your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Am I a good candidate for blepharoplasty?
If you have droopy eyelids, under-eye bags, or excess skin affecting your vision or appearance, you may be an ideal candidate. A consultation with Dr. Golla will determine if this procedure suits your needs.

2. What is the recovery time for eyelid surgery?
Most patients experience swelling and bruising for 7–10 days. Full recovery typically takes about 2–4 weeks, during which you’ll notice gradual improvements in appearance.

3. Will the scars from blepharoplasty be visible?
No. Incisions are strategically placed along natural creases, making scars virtually invisible once healed.

4. Is blepharoplasty permanent?
While the results of blepharoplasty are long-lasting, aging continues. Many patients enjoy the benefits for 10–15 years or more before considering further enhancement.

5. Does the procedure hurt?
Blepharoplasty is performed under local or general anesthesia, ensuring comfort during the procedure. Any post-surgery discomfort is manageable with prescribed medications.

Contact us today at 412-963-6677 to schedule your consultation and begin your journey toward youthful, rejuvenated eyes.