Eyelid Surgery

Because of anesthesia, eyelid surgery is not painful, but recovery may bring mild temporary discomfort. You’ll likely feel some tightness, mild soreness, and swelling, but significant pain is uncommon and subsides within a few days. Dr. Rivera will provide prescribed or over-the-counter pain management options just in case. Cold compresses and keeping the head elevated also help reduce swelling. By following post-operative care instructions, most patients experience a manageable recovery with little to no lingering discomfort.

You’ll need at least three to four appointments. You’ll start with the consultation, during which Dr. Rivera will assess your concerns and discuss your goals. Some patients may require a separate pre-op appointment to review their medical history, finalize details, and receive pre-surgical instructions. The procedure is performed as outpatient surgery, meaning patients return home the same day. Follow-up visits, typically within a few days to a week after surgery, allow Dr. Rivera to monitor healing and remove any sutures if needed.

Dr. Rivera places upper blepharoplasty incisions along the natural eyelid crease and lower blepharoplasty incisions either just below the lash line or inside the eyelid, making scars virtually invisible once healed. In the weeks following surgery, scars may appear slightly pink or raised but gradually fade to thin, barely noticeable lines over time. To aid with healing, Dr. Rivera also provides scar-care guidance, including the use of medical-grade scar creams, sun protection, and proper aftercare.

You should avoid strenuous exercise for at least two to three weeks after eyelid surgery to prevent increased swelling, bruising, or complications from elevated blood pressure. Light activities such as walking can typically be resumed within a few days, but any movement that raises the heart rate or involves bending over should be avoided during the initial healing phase. Most patients can return to moderate exercise, such as low-impact cardio or light weightlifting, after about three weeks, while more intense activities like running, heavy lifting, or high-impact workouts should wait until at least 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery.

Yes, combining eyelid surgery with other procedures is common, whether for further aesthetic enhancements or for functional purposes. We’ve often combined the procedure with a brow lift to reduce further sagging or with a facelift to enhance overall facial harmony. Laser treatments or fat grafting can also be performed simultaneously to improve skin texture and reduce the volume loss around the eyes. Combining procedures can reduce overall downtime and create even more noticeable cosmetic changes.

While eyelid surgery is a safe and commonly performed procedure, all surgeries carry some risks. Temporary swelling, bruising, dry eyes, or sensitivity to light are common but typically resolve within a few weeks. Less common risks include infection, asymmetry, or visible scarring. These are minimized with an experienced surgeon like Dr. Rivera, who will discuss all the risks with you during your consultation and explain the steps he takes to avoid these potential issues.

Start by looking for a board-certified plastic surgeon in Miami Beach with extensive experience in facial procedures, particularly blepharoplasty. A top surgeon should have strong credentials, such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) certification. Beyond credentials, review before-and-after photos to assess their aesthetic approach and ensure they consistently deliver refined, natural outcomes. Reading patient testimonials can also provide insight into their bedside manner and the overall experience. A consultation is the best way to determine if a surgeon is the right fit, allowing you to discuss goals and ask about their surgical techniques, recovery process, and expected results.

• You have loose or sagging skin that creates folds or disrupts the shape of your upper or lower eyelids.
• You look tired due to excess skin.
• Your upper eyelid is droopy, making you appear tired all the time.
• You experience impaired vision from excess upper eyelid skin or droopiness.
• You have fatty deposits that appear as bags or puffiness under your eyes.
• You have excess skin and fine wrinkles on your eyelids.
• You have “crepe paper” type skin and fine wrinkles on your lower eyelids.
• Your upper eyelid skin is not smooth enough to apply makeup.