Eyelid Surgery
Plastic Surgery in Atlanta, GA
There’s a point where it’s not about looking older, it’s about looking more tired than you feel. For many patients, those changes show up first around the eyes: a heaviness that wasn’t there before, persistent puffiness, or a subtle loss of definition that shifts your overall expression.
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is designed to address those changes with precision. By refining excess skin, repositioning fat, and restoring natural contours, the goal is not to change how you look, but to bring clarity back to your expression in a way that feels like you again.
WalkerMD Facial Plastic Surgery is located 20 minutes from Downtown Atlanta and 12 minutes from Brookhaven.
What is Eyelid Surgery?
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure often performed for cosmetic reasons to refresh the eyelids and accentuate the natural beauty of your eyes. While many patients seek blepharoplasty to enhance appearance and achieve a more youthful look, the procedure may also address functional concerns, such as vision impairment caused by drooping eyelids. 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, highly precise blepharoplasty procedure if desired, allowing for a more comprehensive result. The blepharoplasty procedure involves carefully made incisions, removal or repositioning of excess skin and fat, and muscle tightening to achieve a natural, youthful appearance. Eyelid surgery can be performed as an outpatient procedure, making it convenient for most patients. As the eyes are considered the most engaging and important part of your face, eyelid surgery can address 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
An upper eyelid lift focuses on removing skin redundancy with or without conservative fat removal or repositioning. As skin loses elasticity with age, many patients notice drooping upper eyelids and sagging skin that can affect facial expression and appearance. For upper blepharoplasty patients, this procedure restores a youthful position of the eyelids by lifting sagging skin and tissue, rejuvenating the overall appearance of the eyes. Ptosis, or drooping of the upper eyelids, may be addressed in conjunction with upper blepharoplasty. Most patients seek blepharoplasty between their mid-30s and mid-50s to correct these age-related changes.
Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower eyelid surgery, also known as lower lid blepharoplasty, focuses on correcting under-eye bags and puffiness by repositioning or removing excess fat under the eyes, camouflaging the “tear trough,” reducing dark shadows, and, when needed, conservatively removing excess loose skin from the lower lid. Incisions for lower lid surgery are often placed along natural folds or just beneath the lower lashes to minimize visible scarring while allowing precise removal or repositioning of excess fat deposits and skin. Bilateral eyelid surgery, which addresses both upper and lower eyelids simultaneously, provides comprehensive rejuvenation of the eye area.
Before & After Results
What Categories of Blepharoplasty Are There?
Cosmetic Blepharoplasty
Cosmetic eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a popular procedure for facial rejuvenation that addresses eyelid problems affecting the appearance of the eyes and face, helping you achieve a more youthful look. This procedure can correct several issues, reducing droopiness and removing excess skin and fat to create 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. For less severe cases, non-surgical alternatives such as targeted fillers, fat grafting, or laser resurfacing are also available.
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 Sets Dr. Walker Apart as the Premier Blepharoplasty Practice in Atlanta, GA?
- Dr. Thomas Walker is a double Board-certified facial plastic surgeon who focuses exclusively on facial plastic surgery, enabling a level of precision and anatomical understanding that is difficult to replicate in broader surgical practice.
- His approach to eyelid surgery is intentionally conservative, prioritizing long-term eyelid function and natural positioning. With thousands of facial procedures performed, he remains one of the most refined practitioners in eyelid surgery.
- Dr. Walker has fellowship training in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, which provides additional specialization in both cosmetic and functional techniques.
- Every surgical plan is customized based on eyelid anatomy, brow position, skin quality, and overall facial balance. The results are designed to look like a more rested version of you, not an obvious surgical change.
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 whether the procedure is for the upper or lower eyelids, the surgeon’s experience, anesthesia, and the 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.)
- 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 Are the Benefits of Eyelid Surgery?
As an Atlanta blepharoplasty patient, there are numerous benefits to this procedure, but some of the more frequently expressed ones include:
- Restores a more rested, refreshed appearance and youthful eyes without altering your natural expression
- Reduces heaviness in the upper eyelids that can make the eyes appear smaller or fatigued
- Softens under-eye puffiness and improves contour through fat repositioning or removal
- Improves peripheral vision in cases where excess upper eyelid skin interferes with sight
- Enhances overall facial appearance and balance by refining one of the most expressive areas of the face
- Provides long-lasting results, though the natural aging process will continue to influence the eye area and facial appearance over time
Who Are the Best Candidates for Eyelid Surgery?
A good candidate for eyelid surgery in Atlanta is one who:
- Individuals noticing heaviness or excess skin in the upper eyelids
- Patients with under-eye bags or persistent puffiness
- Those experiencing visual obstruction from drooping upper eyelids
- Healthy individuals without underlying conditions that could affect healing
- Patients with realistic expectations who are looking for refinement, not dramatic change
Please note that blepharoplasty may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as active eye infections, severe dry eye syndrome, uncontrolled thyroid eye disease, or glaucoma.
How to Begin Your Eyelid Surgery Journey
The first step is a personalized consultation with Dr. Walker, where your anatomy, concerns, and goals are carefully evaluated. During your consultation, you can expect the following:
- You will undergo a detailed evaluation of the eyelids, brow position, and overall facial balance
- Dr. Walker will review whether upper, lower, or combined blepharoplasty is the most appropriate approach
- You will discuss your anesthesia options, recovery expectations, and surgical planning
- Finally, you will receive a customized treatment plan designed specifically for your anatomy and goals
6 Steps to Prepare for My Blepharoplasty with Dr. Walker?
Preparing for eyelid surgery is a straightforward process, but the details matter. Dr. Walker and his team will provide personalized pre-operative instructions based on your medical history and surgical plan. In general, most patients can expect to:
- Review medications and supplements: You may be asked to stop certain medications or supplements that can increase bleeding risk
- Avoid smoking and nicotine: This is essential for proper healing and optimal surgical outcomes
- Plan your transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and stay with you if needed
- Fill prescriptions in advance: Having medications ready ahead of time helps streamline your recovery
- Set up a comfortable recovery space: Prepare your home with essentials like extra pillows, cold compresses, and easy access to medications.
- Schedule time away from work and social activities: Allow yourself the necessary downtime to heal without added stress
Following these steps closely helps create a smoother surgical experience and a more predictable recovery.
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, also known as upper blepharoplasty, specifically addresses drooping upper eyelids that can occur with age, restoring a more youthful and alert appearance and potentially improving vision. The procedure is performed through a small, hidden incision made in the natural upper eyelid crease, carefully designed to minimize visible scarring. This approach allows for the removal of loose and excess skin and fatty tissue as needed, repositioning of the lacrimal gland (tear-producing gland), if necessary, 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 designed to address under-eye bags, puffiness, and contour irregularities—specifically targeting puffy bags caused by excess fatty tissue and skin beneath the eyes that can create a tired or heavy appearance. Rather than simply removing fat, Dr. Walker often focuses on repositioning it to create a smoother, more natural transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek.
There are several techniques used depending on your anatomy and goals:
- Transconjunctival approach (internal incision): Performed through the inside of the eyelid with no visible external scar. This is Dr. Walker’s preferred method in many cases, particularly when addressing fat without significant excess skin.
- Subciliary approach (incision just below the lower lashes): Used when conservative skin tightening or removal is needed in addition to fat repositioning. The incision is placed just beneath the lower lashes for subtle, minimal scarring.
- Adjunct procedures for support: In patients with lower eyelid laxity, additional techniques may be used to maintain proper eyelid position and reduce the risk of postoperative complications.
Even in patients with mild skin excess, Dr. Walker often favors the transconjunctival approach combined with a conservative skin treatment, allowing for refinement without over-resection. This technique is associated with a lower risk of lower eyelid malposition and helps preserve a natural, balanced appearance.
In some cases, treatments such as laser resurfacing or fillers may be incorporated to refine skin texture and contour further.
Combining Eyelid Surgery with Other Procedures
There are clear advantages in terms of cost and downtime when combining procedures, provided it can be done safely. Many patients choose to pair eyelid surgery with complementary treatments, such as injectable fillers or laser resurfacing, to create a more comprehensive result. Additionally, procedures like laser resurfacing can be combined with blepharoplasty to address crow’s feet and further enhance results. Dr. Walker will be happy to discuss various options with you to customize your treatment plan.
Brow Lift
A brow lift is often considered alongside eyelid surgery when the heaviness in the upper eyelid is partially driven by brow descent rather than excess eyelid skin alone. Addressing both areas can create a more balanced and complete upper facial rejuvenation, rather than isolating one component.
Deep Plane Facelift
While eyelid surgery focuses on the periorbital area, a deep plane facelift addresses the midface, jawline, and neck. For patients experiencing more advanced signs of aging, combining these procedures can create continuity across the face, avoiding a refreshed eye area that contrasts with untreated lower facial structures.
Facial Fat Grafting
Fat grafting can complement blepharoplasty by restoring volume in areas where hollowing contributes to a tired appearance. This is particularly useful in the tear trough or midface, where volume loss cannot be addressed through skin or fat removal alone.
Rhinoplasty
Because the eyes and nose are central features, subtle refinements to both can significantly enhance overall facial harmony. In select cases, combining rhinoplasty with eyelid surgery allows for a more cohesive aesthetic outcome.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing is often used to improve skin texture, fine lines, and discoloration around the eyes. When paired with blepharoplasty, it allows Dr. Walker to address both structural concerns and surface-level skin quality, resulting in a more complete outcome.
Eyelid Surgery Recovery
Eyelid surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing you to return home the same day. Initial recovery typically includes mild swelling, bruising, and temporary irritation around the eyes, all of which improve steadily within the first one to two weeks.
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. Following post-operative instructions is important for optimal blepharoplasty recovery and to support the healing process.
Potential risks associated with blepharoplasty include infection, excessive bleeding, asymmetry of the eyelids, and adverse reactions to anesthesias. Patients can expect to see results from blepharoplasty within four to six weeks after surgery, once swelling subsides.
8 Tips for Recovery
- Use cold compresses as directed to minimize swelling and bruising
- Keep your head elevated, including while sleeping, for the first several days
- Avoid strenuous activity, bending, or heavy lifting during early recovery
- Take prescribed medications exactly as instructed
- Keep incision sites clean and avoid rubbing or pulling on the eyelids
- Avoid wearing contact lenses until cleared by Dr. Walker
- Protect your eyes from sun exposure with sunglasses when outdoors
- 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.
Schedule Your
Consultation
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 to refresh your eyes and reveal a brighter, more youthful appearance, helping 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
Schedule a Consultation
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.