Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty Surgeon in Illinois & Iowa

Safe, Effective Eyelid Lift Consultations and Surgery with Eye Surgeons Associates

As we age, the delicate skin around the eyes begins to sag and lose elasticity. This can result in drooping eyelids that may not only affect our appearance but also impair our vision. At Eye Surgeons Associates, we offer upper eyelid blepharoplasty, an outpatient procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids, restoring both function and a more youthful appearance.

What Is Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty?

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is a specialized surgery that targets sagging, puffy, or heavy upper eyelids. Over time, skin laxity and fat redistribution can cause the upper eyelids to droop, creating a tired or aged look. In more advanced cases, this excess tissue may obstruct peripheral vision or make it difficult to open the eyes.

This procedure, also known as functional or cosmetic eyelid surgery, involves removing the loose skin, tightening the underlying muscles, and eliminating or repositioning fat deposits to achieve a more refreshed and natural appearance. Whether your concerns are functional, cosmetic, or both, our oculoplastic surgeon in Bettendorf and Rock Island can help determine if upper eyelid blepharoplasty is right for you.

Is Your Droopy Eyelid Skin Blocking Your Vision?

Ask yourself these important questions:

  • Do I raise my eyebrows to see better?
  • Does my forehead ache from trying to keep my eyelids out of my vision?
  • Does my eyelid skin rest on my eyelashes—or beyond?
  • Am I having trouble seeing road signs while driving because my eyelid skin is blocking my view?
  • Have I missed seeing another car because my eyelids blocked my view?
  • Do my eyelids get in the way when I read?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you may be a candidate for upper eyelid surgery—and insurance may cover it.

Two Reasons People Choose Upper Eyelid Surgery:

1. Restore Vision (Often Covered by Insurance)
  • Remove excess skin that blocks your sight
  • Improve peripheral vision for safer driving
  • Reduce eyestrain and headaches
  • Make daily activities easier (reading, working, driving)
2. Enhance Appearance (Cosmetic)
  • Look more awake and refreshed
  • Easier makeup application
  • Restore a youthful appearance
  • Boost self-confidence

Who Is a Good Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty may be recommended for patients experiencing visual obstruction, eye fatigue from keeping their eyelids lifted, or dissatisfaction with the appearance of sagging eyelids. Many patients seeking this procedure are over 40, but younger individuals with hereditary eyelid concerns may also benefit.

Before recommending surgery, our team conducts a complete evaluation, including a visual field test to determine whether the excess skin affects your vision. If the surgery is deemed medically necessary, insurance may cover it. For patients seeking cosmetic improvement, our surgeon can help you achieve a more alert and youthful look through a carefully tailored treatment plan.

What to Expect from Upper Eyelid Surgery in Bettendorf

Blepharoplasty is typically performed in our surgical center using local anesthesia with sedation. The procedure generally takes less than an hour, and patients can return home the same day. Most individuals experience minimal downtime and can resume normal activities within a week (but follow your instructions provided by the doctor).

What to Expect on Surgery Day

Upper eyelid surgery is outpatient—you go home the same day:

  • Comfortable IV sedation keeps you relaxed
  • Local anesthesia numbs the area
  • Both eyes done together for balanced results
  • Can combine with lower eyelid surgery if desired

Our team provides detailed aftercare instructions to optimize healing and minimize swelling or bruising. You’ll return for follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure the eyelids heal with natural-looking, symmetrical results.

Recovery and Aftercare

Most patients find recovery easier than expected:

  • Cool compresses for the first two days
  • Mild to moderate discomfort easily managed with over the counter medication
  • No heavy lifting or bending and limit activity for the first week
  • Ointment on incision sites to promote healing
  • Sutures removed in 1-2 weeks
  • Contact lenses can usually be worn after 2 weeks (soft) to 1 month (hard)

To explore more cosmetic and reconstructive services, visit our plastic surgery page.

Schedule a Blepharoplasty Consultation in Bettendorf and Rock Island

If sagging upper eyelids affect your vision or self-confidence, upper eyelid blepharoplasty may offer the improvement you need. At Eye Surgeons Associates, our experienced oculoplastic specialist performs this procedure with precision and care, delivering rejuvenating natural results. Contact us today to schedule your blepharoplasty consultation at one of our Quad City locations and learn more about how we can help you look and see your best.