Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a designed to rejuvenate the eye area by 
addressing sagging, puffiness, or drooping of the eyelids.
Depending on your concerns, you may need upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or a combination of both. Understanding the differences between these two procedures can help you decide which one is right for you. Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Marc Mani is known for his expertise in eyelid surgery, helping patients achieve youthful, refreshed eyes. In this blog, explore the key differences between upper and lower blepharoplasty.
What Is Upper Eyelid Surgery?
Upper eyelid surgery focuses on the skin and fat in the upper eyelid area. Over time, the skin on the upper eyelids can lose elasticity, leading to drooping or sagging. This not only makes the eyes look older and tired but can sometimes impair vision if the drooping skin covers part of the eye.
Key Features of Upper Eyelid Surgery:
- Removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids
- Tightens loose or sagging skin
- Can improve vision if drooping skin is obstructing the field of view
- Typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation
- Minimal scarring, as incisions are made within the natural crease of the eyelid
Patients who undergo upper blepharoplasty often achieve a more youthful and alert appearance. It’s ideal for individuals whose upper eyelids are sagging due to aging, genetics, or other factors.
What Is Lower Eyelid Surgery?
Lower eyelid surgery targets the area under the eyes, addressing issues like puffiness, bags, or fine wrinkles. As we age, fat deposits and skin laxity in the lower eyelids can cause the appearance of tired, puffy eyes. Lower blepharoplasty is designed to smooth and tighten this area, creating a more refreshed look.
Key Features of Lower Eyelid Surgery:
- Removes or repositions fat to reduce puffiness or bags under the eyes
- Tightens loose skin to smooth fine lines and wrinkles
- Can be combined with fat grafting or laser resurfacing for more comprehensive rejuvenation
- Incisions are made just below the lower lash line or inside the lower eyelid to minimize visible scarring
- May involve adjusting the muscles for a more youthful contour
Lower eyelid surgery is an excellent option for individuals with under-eye bags or puffiness that can’t be addressed with non-surgical treatments like fillers.
Upper vs. Lower Eyelid Surgery: Key Differences
While both procedures aim to refresh and rejuvenate the eye area, they target different concerns and use distinct techniques.
- Area of Focus: Upper eyelid surgery addresses sagging skin and fat in the upper lid, while lower eyelid surgery focuses on the lower eye area, reducing puffiness and bags.
- Incision Location: For upper blepharoplasty, the incision is hidden in the natural crease of the eyelid. For lower blepharoplasty, the incision is typically made just below the lash line or inside the lower eyelid to avoid visible scarring.
- Function vs. Aesthetic: Upper eyelid surgery can have a functional benefit by improving vision, whereas lower eyelid surgery is mainly performed for cosmetic reasons.
Learn More from a Respected Plastic Surgeon
If you’re interested in learning more about upper or lower eyelid surgery, or if you’re unsure which procedure is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Marc Mani in Beverly Hills. Call (310) 203-0511 today to make your appointment.
