Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, removes excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper or lower eyelids to create a more rested, youthful appearance. It’s one of the most popular facial procedures because the eyes are often the first place visible signs of aging show up, and even small changes here can make a noticeable difference in how refreshed someone looks. Many patients seek eyelid surgery not just for cosmetic reasons but because heavy, sagging upper lids can actually interfere with vision.
Whether you’re noticing droopy eyelids, under-eye bags that never seem to go away, or a tired appearance that doesn’t match how you feel, eyelid surgery may be worth exploring. Below, we’ll cover how the procedure works, what it can address, what recovery looks like, and how to know if you’re a good candidate.
What Is Eyelid Surgery and How Does It Work?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that addresses excess or sagging tissue around the eyes. Depending on your goals, it can involve the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.
During upper eyelid surgery, Dr. Johnson removes excess skin and sometimes a small amount of fat from the upper lid, creating a smoother, more open eye contour. This is often the procedure that helps when heavy lids start to droop over the lash line.
Lower eyelid surgery focuses on puffiness or bags beneath the eyes. Dr. Johnson can reposition or remove excess fat pads and tighten loose skin, which softens that tired, hollowed look that under-eye bags tend to create.
Both procedures are typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the surgery and patient preference. Incisions are placed along natural creases of the eyelid, which helps them heal discreetly over time.
Learn more about blepharoplasty in Dallas with Dr. Johnson.
What Eyelid Surgery Can Address
Drooping or Heavy Upper Lids
When the skin above the eyes loses elasticity, it can create a hooded appearance that makes you look more tired or older than you feel. In more advanced cases, this excess skin can sag low enough to limit your peripheral vision, particularly the upper and outer visual field.
Under-Eye Bags and Puffiness
Fat pads beneath the eyes can become more prominent over time, even in people who get plenty of sleep. Lower eyelid surgery addresses this by smoothing the transition between the lower lid and the cheek.
Fine Wrinkles and Excess Skin
Crepey or loose skin around the eyes doesn’t always respond well to topical treatments. Removing this excess tissue during eyelid surgery can create a smoother, more even appearance without changing your natural expression.
Quick tip: Many patients combine eyelid surgery with a brow lift or facelift for a more comprehensive refresh. Dr. Johnson will discuss whether combining procedures makes sense for your goals during your consultation.
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Candidacy and What to Expect Before Surgery
Who Is a Good Candidate for Eyelid Surgery
Good candidates are generally healthy adults bothered by excess upper eyelid skin, under-eye bags, or both. Age isn’t the only factor. Some patients in their 30s already notice hereditary under-eye puffiness, while others don’t seek treatment until later in life.
| You may be a good candidate if… | You should wait or discuss further if… |
| You have excess or sagging eyelid skin | You have an active eye infection |
| Drooping lids affect your vision or comfort | You have certain uncontrolled eye conditions (like dry eye or glaucoma) |
| You’re a non-smoker or willing to quit before surgery | You have unrealistic expectations about results |
| You’re in good general health | You’re currently on blood thinners without medical clearance |
Your Initial Consultation
During your consultation, Dr. Johnson will evaluate your eyelid anatomy, discuss your medical history, and talk through your goals. This is also the time to ask questions about anesthesia, incision placement, and what results might realistically look like for your specific situation.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, eyelid surgery remains one of the top five cosmetic surgical procedures performed in the United States each year.
Explore all facial procedures offered at Dr. Johnson’s Dallas practice.
What to Expect: Before, During & After
Before Surgery
You’ll receive specific pre-operative instructions, which may include adjusting certain medications, avoiding blood thinners, and arranging for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
During Surgery
Eyelid surgery typically takes one to three hours, depending on whether you’re having upper, lower, or combined surgery. Dr. Johnson makes incisions along natural eyelid creases to minimize visible scarring.
After Surgery: Recovery Timeline
| Recovery Phase | Timeframe | What to Expect |
| Immediately post-op | Days 1–3 | Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort around the eyes; cold compresses help |
| Early recovery | Week 1–2 | Most bruising fades; stitches removed if non-dissolvable; light activities resume |
| Mid recovery | Weeks 2–4 | Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities |
| Full results | 1–3 months | Final contour settles as residual swelling resolves |
Recovery timelines are approximate and vary by patient. Dr. Johnson will give you a personalized recovery plan based on your procedure and healing progress.
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Why Choose Dr. Bret Johnson in Dallas
Dr. Bret Johnson is a board-certified plastic surgeon trained at UT Southwestern, home to the nation’s #1 ranked plastic surgery residency program, with additional fellowship training in craniofacial surgery. That background gives him a detailed understanding of facial anatomy, which matters when it comes to a procedure as precise as eyelid surgery.
Dr. Johnson combines the latest surgical techniques with an artistic eye, aiming for results that look natural rather than overdone. Every consultation is personalized: he takes time to understand your concerns, explain your options clearly, and make sure you feel comfortable with your decision before moving forward.
Conveniently located in Dallas, TX at 9101 North Central Expressway, Suite 560, his practice welcomes patients from across the Dallas-Fort Worth area considering eyelid surgery and other facial procedures.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Johnson in Dallas.
Your Next Step Toward Eyelid Surgery
If heavy upper lids, under-eye bags, or a tired-looking appearance have been bothering you, eyelid surgery may help you look as refreshed as you feel. The best way to find out if it’s right for you is a one-on-one consultation, where Dr. Johnson can evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals, and walk you through what results might look like in your case.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Dr. Johnson’s office at 469-250-9065 to schedule your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions: Eyelid Surgery
How painful is eyelid surgery?
Most patients describe discomfort as mild to moderate rather than severe. You can expect some tightness, swelling, and bruising in the days following surgery, which is typically managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief as recommended by Dr. Johnson.
How much does eyelid surgery typically cost?
The cost of eyelid surgery varies based on whether you’re having upper, lower, or combined surgery, along with anesthesia and facility fees. Because every patient’s needs are different, Dr. Johnson provides a personalized quote during your consultation after evaluating your goals and anatomy.
How long does it take to recover from eyelid surgery?
Most patients return to work and light activities within one to two weeks, with final results visible over the following months. Swelling and bruising are most noticeable in the first week and gradually improve, though full healing and settling of results take time.
Will eyelid surgery remove my dark circles?
Eyelid surgery can improve the appearance of under-eye bags and hollowing, but it doesn’t directly address skin discoloration. If dark circles are a primary concern, Dr. Johnson can discuss complementary treatments during your consultation.
Is eyelid surgery only for older patients?
No, eyelid surgery is performed on adults of various ages depending on their anatomy and concerns. Some patients seek treatment for hereditary under-eye puffiness or hooded lids well before other signs of aging appear.
