Eyelid Surgery in Upland & the Inland Empire
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, removes or repositions extra skin, fat and muscle around the eyes. It can lift heavy upper lids, smooth puffy bags under the eyes and help you look more awake and less tired.
The eyes are often one of the first places to show age. Drooping upper lids can make you look sad or worn out, and in some cases can even block part of your vision. Some people also inherit puffy or hooded eyelids at a younger age. Inland Empire patients choose this surgery to look as rested as they feel.
Who is a good candidate?
- Adults with loose or hooded skin on the upper eyelids
- People with bags or puffiness under the eyes
- Those whose drooping lids make them look tired, sad or angry
- Younger patients with inherited baggy or heavy eyelids
- Healthy individuals without serious eye conditions
- People with realistic goals who are willing to follow care instructions
Dr. Smiley's technique and philosophy
Dr. Smiley performs upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both, based on your concerns. For the upper lids, he makes a thin incision in the natural crease of the eyelid, removes extra skin, fat and muscle, and closes it with fine dissolvable stitches. The crease helps hide the scar once healed.
For the lower lids, an incision just below the lash line allows him to remove or redistribute fat and tighten the skin. If you have puffiness but little extra skin, he may use a transconjunctival approach, which places the incision on the inside of the lower lid so it is not visible. His goal is a smoother, refreshed look that still looks like you. Eyelid surgery is sometimes combined with a brow lift or facelift.
What to expect
Consultation
Your first visit is at our Upland office at 330 East 7th Street. Dr. Smiley will review your medical history, medications, supplements, alcohol and tobacco use, and allergies. He may also review records from your eye doctor and check your vision and tear production. Being completely honest helps him lower the chance of complications. Call (866) 372-3288 or text (714) 403-7092 to set up a visit.
The procedure
Eyelid surgery is performed in an accredited surgical facility, not at the Upland office. Most patients go home the same day.
Recovery
Swelling, bruising and mild discomfort around the eyes are normal for the first week or two. Cold compresses and keeping your head raised can help. If non-dissolvable stitches are used, they are typically removed within the first week. Many people feel comfortable going out in about 10 to 14 days. Wear sunglasses outdoors, as the bright Inland Empire sun can irritate healing eyes. Everyone heals differently.
Risks and safety
Risks of eyelid surgery include bleeding, infection, dry or irritated eyes, trouble fully closing the eyes for a time, scarring, asymmetry and, rarely, vision changes. Anesthesia also carries risk.
Dr. Smiley explains these risks at your consultation and reviews your eye health before surgery. Results vary, and no specific outcome can be guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
Will eyelid surgery leave visible scars?
Upper lid scars sit in the natural crease, and lower lid incisions are placed just under the lashes or inside the lid. Most scars become hard to see as they heal.
Can eyelid surgery improve my vision?
When heavy upper lids block your view, removing the extra skin may help. Your eye doctor's records and a vision check help determine this.
How long does it take to recover from blepharoplasty?
Most bruising and swelling fade within about two weeks, though some mild swelling can last longer. Everyone heals at their own pace.
Can I have upper and lower eyelid surgery together?
Yes. Many patients treat both at once. Dr. Smiley will recommend what fits your concerns.
Book your consultation in Upland. Call (866) 372-3288 or text (714) 403-7092. Consultations are complimentary.
Learn more about this procedure on Dr. Smiley's main site: Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) at dr-smiley.com.