Expert Eye Rejuvenation for a Brighter Look
Eye rejuvenation surgery, or blepharoplasty, restores a brighter, more youthful appearance by lifting sagging lids, smoothing under-eye bags, and refining the natural contours of the eyes.
Sculpting Youthfulness with Surgical Mastery
The eyes are one of the first places to show signs of aging. Loose skin, puffiness, and under-eye bags can make you look tired, even when you’re not. Eye rejuvenation, or blepharoplasty, is a precise surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat while tightening the eyelid area for a smoother, more refreshed look.
At Balikian Facial Plastic Surgery, Dr. Richard Balikian specializes in both cosmetic and functional eyelid procedures. Whether you’re looking to restore vibrance or improve vision impacted by sagging eyelids, blepharoplasty offers elegant, lasting results.
Types of Eyelid Surgery
Each eyelid procedure is personalized to your needs, anatomy, and cosmetic goals.
- Upper Eyelid Surgery – Removes sagging skin and excess fat from the upper lids that can cause a tired appearance or impair vision.
- Lower Eyelid Surgery – Addresses under-eye bags, puffiness, and sagging skin. Fat can be removed or repositioned to smooth hollows.
- Fat Transposition – In cases with deep tear troughs, Dr. Balikian can reposition fat to soften the transition between lower lid and cheek.
- Transconjunctival Lower Blepharoplasty – A minimally invasive option for younger patients, removing fat through an incision inside the eyelid with no external scarring.
- Skin Pinch Technique – Removes only excess skin from the lower eyelid without disturbing fat or muscle, ideal for mild laxity.
Whether you’re seeking a subtle refresh or more comprehensive rejuvenation, Dr. Balikian will recommend the best approach to achieve natural-looking, balanced results tailored to your unique anatomy.
Patient Transformations
The Blepharoplasty Procedure
Blepharoplasty is typically performed using local anesthesia with sedation. For upper eyelids, incisions are placed in the natural creases; for lower eyelids, incisions are made inside the lid or along the lash line.
Dr. Balikian carefully removes or repositions fat, tightens muscle if necessary, and trims excess skin for a natural-looking lift. Depending on your needs, surgery may take 1 to 2 hours and is performed as an outpatient procedure.
In some cases, eye rejuvenation may be enhanced with laser resurfacing or a brow lift to address forehead sagging and fine wrinkles.
What to Expect During Recovery
Dr. Balikian and his team prioritize a smooth and comfortable recovery. You’ll receive detailed post-op instructions and a take-home care kit to ensure optimal healing.
Initial Recovery
Expect swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort. Ice packs and prescribed ointments help reduce symptoms. You’ll need to keep your head elevated and avoid rubbing your eyes.
Return to Normal Activities
- Most patients resume light activity within 1 week
- Makeup can typically be applied after 10 to 14 days
- Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 2 weeks
Long-Term Results
The results of blepharoplasty can last 10 to 15 years or longer, depending on lifestyle and skin quality. Scars are discreet and fade with time.
Am I a Good Candidate?
You may be a candidate for blepharoplasty if you:
- Have sagging eyelid skin that affects your appearance or vision
- Experience puffiness or bags under the eyes
- Are in good physical health
- Have realistic expectations about the outcome
Dr. Balikian will determine your candidacy during your consultation and help you explore the best approach for your goals.
Eye Rejuvenation FAQs
Can I drive home after surgery?
No. You’ll need someone to drive you, as anesthesia will affect your ability to operate a vehicle.
When can I return to work?
Most patients return to work within 7 to 10 days, depending on job requirements.
When can I wear makeup again?
Makeup can usually be applied after 10 to 14 days.
How long do results last?
Typically 10 to 15 years, though the natural aging process will continue.
What is the difference between upper and lower blepharoplasty?
Upper blepharoplasty reduces hooded skin and can improve visual field when skin hangs over the lashes.
Lower blepharoplasty treats under-eye bags and hollows with fat removal or fat repositioning and conservative skin tightening.
Will it change my eye shape?
The goal is a natural, rested look that keeps your eye shape and expression. Proper technique preserves your unique features.
Can blepharoplasty improve vision?
Upper eyelid surgery can improve peripheral vision if heavy skin is blocking the line of sight. Your exam may include a visual field test.
What about non-surgical options?
Skin care, neuromodulators, light peels, lasers, and tear trough filler can help fine lines and mild hollowing. They cannot remove true excess skin or significant fat pads.
Where are the incisions and will I have scars?
Upper lid incisions hide in the natural crease. Lower lid incisions can be inside the eyelid (transconjunctival, no external scar) or just under the lashes. Scars usually fade to thin lines.
Will it fix crow’s feet or forehead lines?
Not directly. Those lines respond better to neuromodulators, lasers, or resurfacing. These can be combined with surgery for a more complete result.
What is fat repositioning and why use it?
Instead of removing all under-eye fat, your surgeon can shift fat to fill hollows and smooth the lid-cheek junction. This often looks more natural than simple removal.
Can blepharoplasty be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Common pairings include brow lift, fat grafting, laser resurfacing, or facelift to balance the upper and lower face and shorten overall downtime.
How much does it cost?
Pricing depends on upper versus lower lids, technique, anesthesia, and combinations. You will receive a personalized quote after consultation. Financing options are often available.
Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Richard Balikian is a renowned facial plastic surgeon known for his dedication to patients throughout Southern California.
With more than two decades of experience and double board certification in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, he brings together surgical precision and an artist’s eye.
Dr. Balikian is among a select group of specialists whose advanced training is devoted entirely to procedures of the face and neck.
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The Balikian Experience
Patients choose Dr. Richard Balikian for precision facial procedures, personalized care and results that look naturally you.
Learn More About Facial Plastic Surgery
Richard V. Balikian, MD, FACS
Double Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
Balikian Facial Plastic Surgery: Richard V. Balikian, MD, FACS
Tyler Frew, MD
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon