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Eyelid Surgery

Plastic Surgery in Atlanta, GA

Are you starting to notice that age is taking a toll on your eyes, especially your eyelids? If you are unhappy with the look of saggy or puffy upper or lower lids, eyelid surgery can help. This procedure is commonly performed on men and women alike to create a youthful, refreshed appearance. Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is a type of surgery that repairs droopy eyelids, removes bags under the eyes, and may involve removing excess skin and fat.

As you age, the natural process leads to signs such as drooping eyelids, excess fat deposits, and changes in the skin around the eyes. Your eyelids stretch, and the muscles supporting them weaken. As a result, excess fat may gather above and below your eyelids, causing droopy upper lids and bags under your eyes.

Besides making you look older or tired, severely sagging skin around your eyes can reduce your field of vision, particularly in the upper and outer corners. Blepharoplasty can reduce or eliminate these vision problems and make your eyes appear younger and more alert. While the results of blepharoplasty are long-lasting, the natural aging process will continue to affect the eyelids over time. Although blepharoplasty can improve puffiness and bags, it may not eliminate dark circles, and crow’s feet or other fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes may require additional treatments such as laser resurfacing or fillers. 

Our Atlanta office is 12 minutes from Brookhaven and 15 minutes from Buckhead.

What is Eyelid Surgery?

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure designed to refresh the eyelids and accentuate the natural beauty of your eyes. As one of several eyelid procedures available for eye rejuvenation, it can be performed on the upper, lower, or both eyelids to rejuvenate the eyes and reduce the appearance of tiredness. The changes are typically subtle yet can make a striking impact on your overall appearance. Upper and lower blepharoplasty in Atlanta is a popular cosmetic surgery that is performed on both men and women.

Both the upper and lower eyelids can be addressed in a single procedure if desired, allowing for a more comprehensive result. As the eyes are considered to be the most engaging and important part of your face, eyelid surgery can correct the aforementioned issues and give you a more youthful, refreshed, and awake look. Even though most blepharoplasty surgeries are considered cosmetic, upper eyelid surgery may be functional if heavy upper eyelids impair vision. A qualified surgeon typically performs blepharoplasty, so patients should review the surgeon’s experience with eyelid procedures and inquire about their success rates and complication management.

Upper Blepharoplasty

Upper eyelid surgery focuses on removing skin redundancy with or without conservative fat removal or repositioning. For upper blepharoplasty patients, this procedure restores a youthful position to the eyelids by lifting sagging skin and tissue, which rejuvenates the overall appearance of the eyes. Ptosis, or drooping of the upper eyelids, may be performed in conjunction with upper blepharoplasty. Most upper blepharoplasty patients seek the procedure between their mid-30s and mid-50s.

Lower Blepharoplasty

Lower eyelid surgery, also known as lower lid blepharoplasty, is focused on removing bags by repositioning or removing protruding fat under the eyes, camouflaging the “tear trough,” improving dark shadows under the eyes, and, at times, conservatively removing excess loose skin from the lower lid if needed. Incisions for lower lid surgery are often placed along natural folds or just below the lash line to minimize visible scarring while allowing precise removal of excess fat deposits and skin.

What Sets Dr. Walker Apart as the Premier Blepharoplasty Practice in Atlanta?

  • Dr. Thomas Walker is a double board-certified Facial Plastic Surgeon who focuses exclusively on facial plastic surgery procedures involving the face, eyes, and neck. This specialization allows him to approach eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) with a deep understanding of facial anatomy, balance, and aging—resulting in natural-looking outcomes that never appear overdone.
  • When considering blepharoplasty or other facial plastic surgery procedures, it is essential to choose a qualified surgeon with board certification, proven experience, and a track record of successful outcomes. Patients should examine before-and-after photos of previous patients to assess the surgeon’s aesthetic style, ensure the surgeon operates in accredited facilities, and look for positive patient reviews and a professional bedside manner that fosters trust and open communication.
  • Dr. Walker has performed thousands of facial procedures throughout his career, with eyelid surgery being one of the most frequently performed and refined procedures in his practice. His meticulous technique and conservative philosophy prioritize long-term eye health, proper eyelid position, and subtle rejuvenation.
  • He completed his medical degree and advanced surgical training at nationally respected institutions, followed by fellowship training in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. This additional specialization provides extensive expertise in both cosmetic and functional eyelid surgery.
  • Dr. Walker is double board-certified and an active member of leading professional organizations, including the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS). These credentials reflect his commitment to the highest standards of surgical safety, innovation, and patient care.
  • In addition to his technical skill, Dr. Walker is known for his thoughtful, individualized approach. Every eyelid surgery plan is customized based on eyelid anatomy, skin quality, facial structure, and aesthetic goals to ensure results that look refreshed—not surgically altered.

Eyelid Surgery Quick Facts

    • Surgery Time: Upper eyelid surgery typically takes about 1 hour; lower eyelid surgery may take 1.5–2 hours, depending on complexity and whether procedures are combined.
    • Price: Blepharoplasty cost in Atlanta varies based on factors such as upper vs. lower eyelids, surgeon experience, anesthesia, and surgical setting. Typical costs in Atlanta range from $3,000 to $5,000 for upper blepharoplasty and $3,500 to $6,000 for lower blepharoplasty. The average cost can vary depending on the specific procedure being considered. (For an accurate estimate, please ask during your consultation.)
    • Financing: Many financing options are available to help make the procedure more accessible.
    • Recovery: The recovery period for upper eyelid surgery is about 1 week, while lower eyelid surgery typically requires approximately 2 weeks. During this initial healing phase, patients should follow aftercare instructions to manage swelling and bruising and ensure proper healing.
    • Results: Long-lasting, natural-looking rejuvenation with continued improvement as swelling resolves

What Types of Blepharoplasty are There?

Cosmetic Blepharoplasty

Cosmetic Blepharoplasty addresses eyelid problems that affect the aesthetics of the eyes and face to create a more youthful look. There are several issues that can be corrected with cosmetic blepharoplasty, giving you a more youthful, rested appearance. Normal aging can cause the skin to stretch and muscles to weaken in both the upper and lower eyelid areas.

Functional Blepharoplasty

Functional Blepharoplasty corrects eyelid issues that affect an individual’s field of vision. If the field of vision is diminished, the surgery would be considered functional surgery as opposed to cosmetic surgery and could be covered by your health insurance, depending on your insurance plan. An ophthalmologic evaluation is typically necessary to assess your visual field prior to undergoing functional upper blepharoplasty.

What Are the Benefits of Eyelid Surgery?

For many patients, the procedure restores a more youthful, rested appearance and helps reduce puffiness, drooping skin, and fine lines around the eyes. Eyelid surgery can significantly enhance overall facial appearance, making patients look more alert and rejuvenated. Upper blepharoplasty can also improve peripheral vision when sagging eyelids block part of the visual field. Because the eyes are the focal point of most facial interactions, eyelid surgery can make you look more approachable, energized, and confident. Results are long‑lasting, and when combined with healthy habits and proper skincare, they can keep you looking refreshed for many years.

Who Are the Best Candidates for Eyelid Surgery?

Men or women who are unhappy with the look or function of their eyelids can often benefit from a blepharoplasty. Healthy individuals without serious eye conditions who have realistic expectations for the outcome of their procedure are ideal candidates.

What’s the First Step?

The first step toward eyelid surgery at WalkerMD is a one‑on‑one consultation with Dr. Walker. 

He will perform an examination of your periorbital area, eyebrows, eyelids, and overall facial balance before recommending the most effective approach for you. He’ll also review your anesthesia options, explain what you can expect before and after surgery, and answer any questions you may have.

How Do I Prepare for My Blepharoplasty?

Prior to surgery, Dr. Walker will provide detailed pre-operative instructions tailored to your procedure and medical history. In general, patients may be asked to stop certain medications or supplements that increase bleeding, avoid smoking, and arrange for transportation on the day of surgery.

You may also be advised to have prescriptions filled in advance, prepare a comfortable recovery space at home, and plan time away from work and social engagements. Following these instructions closely helps ensure a smoother surgery and recovery process.

What to Expect on the Day of Eyelid Surgery

Upper Blepharoplasty

Upper eyelid surgery may be safely and comfortably performed under local anesthesia or twilight sleep, either in the office or operating room, depending on your preference. Upper eyelid surgery is performed through a small, hidden incision in the natural upper eyelid skin crease. This allows for the removal of loose and excess skin and fatty tissue, as needed, repositioning of the lacrimal gland (tear-producing gland), if needed, and correction of eyelid position. The procedure takes approximately one hour. Sutures are placed on the outside and removed 5-7 days after surgery.

Lower Blepharoplasty

Lower eyelid surgery is performed under deeper sedation, typically in the operating room. Under sedation, you are considered to be awake but unaware of the procedure. In most instances, lower blepharoplasty is performed under general anesthesia, with you fully asleep and unaware of the procedure (usually done in conjunction with other procedures such as a brow lift, rhinoplasty, or a deep plane facelift). Dr. Walker will discuss the anesthetic options with you and recommend the most appropriate anesthesia for your specific case.

  • Anesthesia

Lower eyelid surgery may be performed through a carefully planned small incision inside your eyelid, a small incision just below your lash line, or both. Incisions just below the lash line (“subciliary”) are typically used to address excess skin, subtly lifting it to achieve a softer look. Internal incisions (“transconjunctival”) through the inside of the lower eyelid may be utilized if fat protrusion is the sole problem without skin redundancy/excess. This approach is commonly utilized in younger patients or patients with puffy eyelids only. In older patients with excess skin and lower eyelid laxity, Dr. Walker still typically uses the transconjunctival approach, along with an adjunct procedure to tighten the lower eyelid and, if needed, remove excess skin via a so-called skin-pinch procedure. The advantage of the transconjunctival approach is its lower rate of postoperative lower eyelid malposition, and it is therefore Dr. Walker’s most commonly performed and preferred method. In some cases, a laser resurfacing treatment may be incorporated to assist with skin tightening or discoloration, while fillers may be used to achieve smoother and softer results.

Eyelid Surgery Recovery

Eyelid surgery is an outpatient procedure. Once eyelid surgery has been completed on both sides, ointment and cool compresses are applied. The initial recovery period involves managing mild swelling, bruising, and irritation around the incision sites. After recovering from the twilight or general anesthesia and ensuring your comfort, you will be able to go home the same day.

After upper eyelid surgery, some bruising and swelling are to be expected and typically last for 1 week. Stitches from the procedure are usually removed three to five days after surgery. It is recommended that you rest at home and avoid going to work for 1 week after surgery. A cold compress can help reduce discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Mild blurry vision is not unusual after eyelid surgery and usually lasts one week, rarely longer. After 2-3 weeks, you may resume wearing contact lenses or applying eye makeup. If lower eyelid surgery is performed, whether with or without upper eyelid surgery, recovery time is slightly longer, with the lower eyelid surgery being the rate-limiting step and associated with a two-week downtime.

Potential risks associated with blepharoplasty include infection, bleeding, and adverse anesthesia reactions. Patients can expect to see results from blepharoplasty within four to six weeks after surgery, once swelling subsides.

A young woman with long dark hair sits on a bed draped in a white sheet. She looks thoughtfully at the camera, her hands resting on the fabric wrapped loosely around her. She wears a light cream or white turtleneck top. The background is a muted grayish-brown, and soft, diffused lighting highlights her natural complexion in a bedroom setting. - Radiesse in Atlanta, GA

8 Tips for Recovery

  1. Use cold compresses as directed to minimize swelling and bruising
  2. Keep your head elevated, including while sleeping, for the first several days
  3. Avoid strenuous activity, bending, or heavy lifting during early recovery
  4. Take prescribed medications exactly as instructed
  5. Keep incision sites clean and avoid rubbing or pulling on the eyelids
  6. Avoid wearing contact lenses until cleared by Dr. Walker
  7. Protect your eyes from sun exposure with sunglasses when outdoors
  8. Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing

How Much Does Eyelid Surgery Cost in Atlanta, GA?

The cost of blepharoplasty in Atlanta can vary significantly depending on several factors, including surgeon experience, whether you are having upper or lower eyelid surgery, the location of the surgery (office vs. operating room), and the type of anesthesia used. Typical costs in Atlanta for upper blepharoplasty range from $3,000 to $5,000, while lower blepharoplasty ranges from $3,500 to $6,000. The specific blepharoplasty cost will be determined during your consultation, where Dr. Walker’s team will go over estimated costs with you and address any related concerns, such as recovery and complementary treatments. Many financing options are available to help make the procedure more accessible sooner. Although finances are important, you should focus on finding a skilled, caring surgeon you trust rather than on the cost of your procedure. Dr. Walker’s team will be happy to go over financing options with you.

Why Choose Dr. Walker?

Choosing the right surgeon for eyelid surgery is crucial, and Dr. Thomas Walker stands out as one of Atlanta’s and the Southeastern United States’ leading Facial Plastic Surgeons. Double board‑certified and affiliated with top organizations such as the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS), the American Medical Association (AMA), and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), Dr. Walker combines technical expertise with a personalized, artistic approach. He focuses exclusively on facial procedures, allowing him to deliver precise, natural‑looking results.

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If droopy eyelids or under-eye bags are making you look tired or older than you feel, it might be time to explore eyelid surgery. At WalkerMD in Atlanta, Dr. Walker offers a personalized approach designed to refresh your eyes and reveal a brighter, more youthful appearance to help you look as energized as you feel inside.

WalkerMD Facial Plastic Surgery is conveniently located 10 minutes from Buckhead, 12 minutes from Brookhaven, 20 minutes from downtown Atlanta, and 30 minutes from Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport – the world’s busiest airport by passenger count.

Eyelid Surgery FAQ’S

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To discuss your facial plastic surgery options with Dr. Walker, please schedule a consultation. For your comfort and safety, if you are unable to meet in out Atlanta office, we are currently offering secure telehealth appointments.

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