Blepharoplasty in NYC — refreshing the eyes without changing the gaze.

Blepharoplasty treats eyelid tissue; a brow lift repositions a descended brow. Some patients have one problem, others have both. Brow position should be assessed before upper-eyelid skin is removed.

No. Brow descent, eyelid ptosis, swelling, asymmetry, and orbital anatomy can create similar symptoms. The eyelid margin and brow must be examined.

Temporary dryness or irritation can occur, and patients with pre-existing surface disease may have greater risk. Conservative tissue removal, closure assessment, and coordination with eye care when needed are important.

A transconjunctival approach uses an incision inside the lower lid and is often used for fat treatment without external skin excision. An external approach may address skin and support but carries different scar and lid-position considerations.

Cosmetic blepharoplasty is not covered. A functional upper-eyelid component may be reviewed when medical criteria and plan benefits are met. Coverage is not guaranteed.

Upper blepharoplasty addresses redundant eyelid skin and hooding that may obscure the fold or visual field. Lower blepharoplasty treats fat prominence, skin laxity, and orbicularis weakening beneath the eye. Many patients need only one level treated; others benefit from combined upper and lower work for balanced results. A focused clinical exam and photographic analysis determine the proper combination and sequencing.

Good candidacy depends on the anatomic driver of your complaint: skin excess, levator dysfunction (ptosis), or brow descent produce similar appearance changes but require different operations. Formal ptosis testing, brow position assessment, and evaluation of eyelid margin height are performed in clinic. If ptosis or brow descent contributes, those issues are treated first or in combination with blepharoplasty. A consultation is required to determine the correct diagnosis and surgical plan.

The transconjunctival approach accesses fat through the inner lid and leaves no external skin scar; it is best for patients with good skin tone and isolated fat prolapse. The subciliary (external) incision allows skin excision, direct orbicularis tightening, and more extensive resurfacing but produces a fine external scar placed just below the lash line. Choice depends on skin quality, laxity, and whether fat repositioning or skin tightening is required. Dr. Mourad selects the approach that balances preservation and structural support for each eyelid.

Most patients have maximal swelling and bruising during the first 3–7 days, with substantial improvement by 10–14 days. Many return to desk work in 7–10 days, while more strenuous activity is typically resumed at 3–4 weeks. Subtle swelling and contour refinement continue for 3–6 months, and final softening can take 6–12 months in some cases. Individual healing varies and depends on procedure extent and whether adjunctive skin resurfacing was performed.

Preoperative ocular surface assessment is essential because eyelid surgery can transiently worsen dry eye symptoms. Patients with significant dry eye or incomplete eyelid closure may need medical optimization before surgery or an altered surgical plan. Temporary irritation and lagophthalmos are uncommon but monitored closely; permanent closure problems are rare when eyelid support is preserved and canthopexy is used when indicated. Dr. Mourad coordinates care with an ophthalmologist when necessary.