When you look in the mirror, do you find yourself fixating on your tired-looking eyes? Do you have sagging upper eyelids or drooping lower eyelids that make you look perplexed or even depressed, even though you are a well-rested, happy person? If you answered yes to one or both of these questions, it is time to visit Dr. Florence Mussat at her Chicago plastic surgery office to learn more about blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery.
Why Eyelid Surgery Becomes Necessary
Over time, the body gradually stops producing collagen and elastin, proteins that are essential for healthy, elastic skin. Without these proteins, the skin loses its elastic quality and starts to sag. Muscle tone degenerates and fat is displaced. These cosmetic effects of the natural aging process can affect nearly any area of the body — including the eye region. The result is often drooping upper eyelids that, when severe enough, can impede the line of vision and / or sagging lower eyelids, which can lead to the look of dark circles or “bags” under the eyes. To improve these aesthetic concerns relating to the eyelids, Dr. Mussat performs blepharoplasty.
Dr. Mussat also performs blepharoplasty to improve an aesthetic concern that many individuals of certain ethnic backgrounds share: “monolids,” or the lack of a distinct crease in the upper eyelids.
Suitable Blepharoplasty Candidates
Appropriate candidates for eyelid surgery include those who:
- Are bothered by drooping upper and / or lower eyelids or the lack of a distinct natural fold in the upper eyelids
- Are in sound mental and physical health
- Have reasonable expectations for what eyelid surgery can accomplish — that is, they seek aesthetic improvement, not necessarily perfection
- Have made the decision to undergo the surgical procedure of their own volition
- Comprehend both the rewards and possible risks of the operation
The Blepharoplasty Procedure
Eyelid surgery is an outpatient procedure and is performed under general anesthesia. It takes Dr. Mussat about an hour and a half to perform blepharoplasty, depending on the extent of the patient’s cosmetic concerns and surgical needs.
If Dr. Mussat is treating both the upper and lower eyelids, she will treat the upper eyelids first. She makes an incision in the crease of the upper eyelids, where it is concealed by the natural eyelid fold. She removes any excess skin and fat before closing the incision with dissolvable sutures.
To treat the lower eyelids, the Chicago blepharoplasty surgeon makes an incision either within the lower eyelash line or just beneath it. She again 
removes excess skin and fat before closing the incision with either dissolvable or removable stitches, depending on the location of the incision.
What to Expect Following Eyelid Surgery
Patients should expect to take about three to five days off from work or their usual schedule for the initial phase of the recovery process. During this time, taking over-the-counter pain relievers and applying icepacks periodically to the treatment area should alleviate any minor discomfort. The final outcome of blepharoplasty should be visible in about two weeks.
Chicago Eyelid Surgery FAQs
How painful is eyelid surgery?
Discomfort is usually mild to moderate and well controlled with cold compresses and prescribed pain medicine for a few days. Dr. Stanton says most patients report tightness and soreness, not sharp pain, and are comfortable within about a week.
Is eyelid surgery safe?
When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, blepharoplasty is considered very safe. Risks like infection, bleeding, dry eye, or asymmetry are uncommon and are minimized with proper screening and aftercare.
How much does eyelid lift surgery cost?
Costs vary by surgeon experience, location, and whether upper, lower, or combined lids are treated. Your quote typically includes surgeon’s fees, facility, anesthesia, and aftercare. Insurance rarely covers cosmetic blepharoplasty.
What is the difference between eyelid surgery and blepharoplasty?
They are the same procedure. Blepharoplasty is the medical term for eyelid surgery that removes excess skin and fat and tightens muscle to improve function and appearance.
What is the best age for eyelid surgery?
There is no single best age. Dr. Stanton explains that candidacy depends on anatomy, skin laxity, visual obstruction, and health, with many patients falling between their 40s and 60s.
Can eyelid surgery go wrong?
Complications are rare but possible, such as over- or under-correction, dry eye, scarring, or contour irregularities. Choosing an experienced surgeon and following instructions closely lowers these risks.
Is eyelid surgery worth the money?
Many patients report high satisfaction because their eyes look more rested, and vision can improve when heavy skin is lifted. Dr. Stanton adds that results typically last for years and maintenance needs are low compared to nonsurgical options.
How can I lift my saggy eyelids without surgery?
Nonsurgical options include neuromodulators to help brow position, energy-based treatment for skin tightening, and medical-grade skincare for texture. These can improve mild laxity but cannot remove excess skin like surgery.
How long does eyelid surgery last?
Upper blepharoplasty often lasts 8 to 10 years or longer. Lower eyelid fat removal and tightening are typically long-lasting, though natural aging continues.
How long do stitches stay in after eyelid surgery?
External sutures on the upper lids are usually removed in 5 to 7 days. Lower lid incisions made inside the eyelid use dissolving sutures that do not need to be removed.
Do people regret upper blepharoplasty?
Regret is uncommon when expectations are aligned with anatomy, and the plan is individualized. Dr. Stanton emphasizes the importance of a detailed consultation with photos and measurements to ensure you know what surgery can and cannot do.
Can I fly after eyelid surgery?
Most surgeons recommend avoiding air travel for about 1 week to limit swelling and dryness. Dr. Stanton advises using frequent lubrication drops and avoiding heavy lifting if you must fly sooner, with clearance from your surgeon.
Achieve a Happy, Youthful Look
You get plenty of sleep and are generally a happy person. Make sure the appearance of your eyes reflects that! To schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Mussat to learn how eyelid surgery can give you a happy, younger appearance, contact her office by calling (312) 751-9000.
