Double Board-Certified
Plastic Surgeon
30+ Years
Facelift & Eyelid surgery
SMAS Facelift
Natural Result
AAAASF-Accredited
Surgical Facility
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in San Francisco
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure to remove excess fat and skin from the eyelid to make the appearance more youthful. Many of these operations are completed at Bay Area Plastic Surgery each year by double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Leonard Gray. In the upper eyelid area, either a scalpel or a laser can be used as a cutting instrument. It is important to place the incisions precisely and symmetrically so that they lie in the crease and make any scarring difficult to detect. Dr. Gray always uses magnification telescopes and calipers to ensure accuracy during this cosmetic procedure.
Lower eyelid surgery is by nature a conservative cosmetic operation. Dr. Gray takes a conservative approach, removing little or no fat from the lower lid unless there is significant excess. Fat repositioning can be performed. Quite often Dr. Gray uses a filler, such as Belotero®, to fill the depression under the lower lid, and to restore the original contour to the lower lid area. Fat can be used in this area as well, but it is less precise and predictable and has a significantly longer recovery time.
If you would like to learn more about eyelid surgery in San Francisco, CA, please contact Bay Area Plastic Surgery through our online form or call 415-434-8858 to get started today.
Eyelid Surgery Results
How Is Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) Performed?
Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure that reshapes the eyelids to address concerns such as excess skin, puffiness, and fine creases in the eyelid skin. It can be performed on the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both. The approach and incision placement differ for the upper and lower eyelids, but the method is similar: removing loose skin or tissue and removing or repositioning fat.
The results of eyelid surgery are confined to the eyelids. While creases in the eyelid skin can improve, crow’s feet, forehead lines, and dark circles need other treatments. Eyelid surgery can be combined with treatments such as Botox® for a more complete result.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?
Blepharoplasty is ideal for men and women who are bothered by drooping upper eyelids, puffiness beneath the eyes, or a consistently tired or aged appearance. Many patients in San Francisco seek eyelid surgery not only for cosmetic reasons, but also because excess upper eyelid skin can begin to interfere with vision over time.
Good candidates are generally in good overall health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about what eyelid surgery can achieve. During your consultation, Dr. Gray will evaluate your anatomy, skin quality, and goals to determine whether upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or a combination approach is best for you.
What Eyelid Surgery Addresses
| Upper Eyelid Surgery | Lower Eyelid Surgery |
|---|---|
| Excess skin: Sagging or drooping upper eyelid skin that can impair vision or create a tired appearance. | Under-eye bags: Puffy or swollen areas beneath the eyes caused by excess fat or tissue. |
| Fat deposits: Pockets of fat that may cause puffiness or bulging in the upper eyelids. | Excess skin: Loose or wrinkled skin in the lower eyelid area. |
| Wrinkles: Fine lines and creases that develop on the upper eyelids due to aging. | Tear troughs: Deep creases or hollows between the lower eyelids and cheeks. |
Leonard W. Gray, MD, FACS: Double Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
30+ years of breast and body expertise
What Happens During and After Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)?
Eyelid surgery is performed under general anesthesia in Bay Area Plastic Surgery’s AAAASF-accredited surgical suite. If the procedure involves both upper and lower eyelids, Dr. Gray will typically address the upper eyelid first. On average, it takes 1–2 hours to complete the operation, and patients go home the same day.
Recovery Timeline After Eyelid Surgery
Understanding recovery helps patients feel more prepared and confident going into surgery. For the first few days, expect swelling and discoloration around the eyes, and keep your head elevated. Dr. Gray will prescribe pain medication and antibiotics to manage initial discomfort, and strenuous activities should be avoided.
Most patients can expect:
- Swelling and bruising for 7 to 10 days
- Return to work within 7 to 14 days
- Gradual improvement in appearance over several weeks
- Final results visible within 1 to 3 months
Dr. Gray provides detailed post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal healing.
San Francisco Eyelid Surgery FAQs
Will I have visible scars after blepharoplasty?
Eyelid surgery, whether upper or lower, generally does not cause visible scarring. This is because Dr. Gray takes great care to place the incisions within the natural lines and folds of the eyes. Once the surgical healing has passed, the incisions are typically very difficult to see.
Will blepharoplasty treat my crow's feet & forehead wrinkles?
No. The results of eyelid surgery are confined to the eyelids, so crow’s feet and forehead wrinkles need other treatments. Botox® is often the most effective option, as it relaxes the muscles that cause wrinkles on the forehead and around the eyes, and it can be combined with eyelid surgery. Dermal fillers can also help by adding volume to hollow areas for a softer, smoother appearance.
What are the post-op risks?
As with any surgery, blepharoplasty carries some risks. These include:
- Temporary swelling and bruising
- Dry or irritated eyes
- Minor asymmetry between the eyelids
- Infection
Serious complications are rare. To minimize your risk, follow Dr. Gray’s care instructions closely, since the eyes can be sensitive after surgery, and protect your eyes from the sun and wind during the first few weeks of recovery.
Will eyelid surgery help my eyesight?
In some cases, yes. Blepharoplasty can correct a functional issue as well as a cosmetic one. Patients whose excess upper eyelid skin hangs into their line of sight often notice an improved field of vision after surgery. It does not change your eyesight itself, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness. Many patients also find that applying makeup is easier without having to work around the excess skin.
How much does eyelid surgery cost in San Francisco?
The cost of blepharoplasty in San Francisco varies depending on whether upper, lower, or both eyelids are treated, as well as the complexity of the procedure. During your consultation, Dr. Gray will provide a personalized quote based on your goals and treatment plan.
Is blepharoplasty painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort after eyelid surgery. Mild soreness, tightness, and swelling are common in the first few days, but these symptoms are well-managed with prescribed medications and proper aftercare.
When can I wear makeup after eyelid surgery?
Patients are typically able to resume wearing eye makeup within 10 to 14 days, once the incisions have healed sufficiently. Dr. Gray will give you specific guidance based on your recovery progress.
Can eyelid surgery be combined with other procedures?
Yes, blepharoplasty is often combined with a facelift or non-surgical treatments like Botox® and dermal fillers. Combining treatments can create a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Will my eyes look different after blepharoplasty?
The goal of eyelid surgery is not to change the natural shape of your eyes, but to restore a more youthful, refreshed version of your existing appearance. Dr. Gray focuses on subtle, natural-looking results that enhance your features.
How soon will I see results after eyelid surgery?
While some improvement is visible once initial swelling subsides, most patients begin to see noticeable results within 2 to 3 weeks. Final results continue to refine over the following months.
Can men benefit from eyelid surgery?
Absolutely. Eyelid surgery is a popular procedure among men who want to look less tired and more alert without appearing overdone. The approach is tailored to maintain a natural, masculine appearance.
What causes under-eye bags and puffiness?
Under-eye bags are often caused by a combination of aging, genetics, and weakening of the tissues that support fat around the eyes. Blepharoplasty addresses this by removing or repositioning fat and tightening the surrounding structures.
Is there an ideal age for blepharoplasty?
There is no specific “right” age for eyelid surgery. While many patients are in their 40s to 60s, younger patients with genetic under-eye bags or excess skin may also benefit from the procedure.
Why choose Dr. Leonard Gray for blepharoplasty in San Francisco?
Dr. Gray’s meticulous technique, use of magnification tools, and conservative approach to fat removal and repositioning allow for highly precise, natural-looking outcomes. His focus on symmetry, detail, and patient education ensures that each procedure is tailored to achieve refined, balanced results.