Signs You May Benefit from Eyelid Surgery

Your eyes are often the first feature people notice and is typically one of the first areas to show signs of aging. Drooping eyelids, under-eye bags, or a constantly tired appearance can affect not only how you look, but how you feel about yourself. In some cases, these changes can even interfere with vision. Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, can be a highly effective procedure designed to refresh the eye area and restore a more youthful, alert appearance. 

At The Aesthetic Institute of Chicago, board-certified plastic surgeons Brian Braithwaite, MD, FACS and Lorri Cobbins, MD, FACS offer customized eyelid surgery procedures tailored to each patient’s anatomy and goals. If you’re wondering whether this procedure may be right for you, here are some signs you may benefit from eyelid surgery. 

Drooping Upper Eyelids 

One of the most common reasons patients seek eyelid surgery is sagging or drooping upper eyelids. Over time, the skin of the eyelids loses elasticity, causing it to stretch and fold over the natural crease. This can create a heavy or hooded appearance that makes the eyes look smaller or less defined. 

For some individuals, drooping upper eyelids are more than a cosmetic concern. Excess skin can obstruct the upper field of vision, making everyday activities like reading or driving more difficult. Upper eyelid surgery removes this excess skin for a more open, refreshed look while potentially improving vision. 

Persistent Under-Eye Bags or Puffiness 

Under-eye bags can develop due to aging, genetics, or fat displacement beneath the lower eyelids. While topical treatments and lifestyle changes may help reduce temporary puffiness, they often cannot correct prominent or persistent under-eye bags. 

Lower eyelid surgery can address this issue by removing or repositioning excess fat and tightening the skin, generally resulting in a smoother, more rested appearance. Patients often find that they look less tired and more revitalized, even when they feel well-rested. 

A Constantly Tired or Aged Appearance 

Heavy eyelids, sagging skin, and under-eye bags can give the impression of fatigue or premature aging. This can be frustrating, especially when your appearance doesn’t reflect how energetic or vibrant you feel. 

Eyelid surgery can help restore balance to the face by rejuvenating the eye region. Many patients report that after surgery, they look more alert, approachable, and confident in both personal and professional settings. 

Difficulty Applying Makeup 

Excess eyelid skin can make applying eye makeup challenging. Eyeliner may smudge, eyeshadow can disappear into folds of skin, and mascara may transfer onto the upper lid. For many patients, this daily inconvenience becomes a subtle but persistent frustration. 

By removing excess skin and restoring the natural eyelid contour, upper eyelid surgery can make makeup application easier and more effective, allowing cosmetic enhancements to complement your eyes rather than compete with sagging skin. 

Asymmetry Between the Eyelids 

Facial asymmetry is common, but noticeable differences between the eyelids can become more pronounced with age or be caused by genetics, injury, or muscle weakness. One eyelid may droop more than the other, creating an uneven or unbalanced appearance. 

Eyelid surgery can be carefully customized to improve symmetry while maintaining your natural facial expression. Dr. Braithwaite and Dr. Cobbins take a meticulous approach to help results look balanced and harmonious. 

Fine Lines and Wrinkled Skin Around the Eyes 

The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate than elsewhere on the face, making it especially prone to fine lines, wrinkles, and a crepey texture. While non-surgical treatments may improve surface-level concerns, they cannot remove excess skin or significantly tighten the eyelids. 

Blepharoplasty can address these deeper structural issues, often providing longer-lasting and more dramatic rejuvenation compared to non-surgical options alone. In some cases, eyelid surgery may be combined with other facial procedures for enhanced results. 

You Look Older Than You Feel 

Many patients who are considering eyelid surgery feel that their eyes make them appear older than they truly are. This disconnect between appearance and inner vitality can affect self-confidence and how others perceive you. 

Eyelid surgery is not about changing who you are—it’s about restoring a version of yourself that looks as energetic and youthful as you feel. When performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, results can be subtle yet transformative. 

Determining Eyelid Surgery Candidacy

Ideal candidates for eyelid surgery should be in good health, not smoke, and have realistic expectations about results. While eyelid surgery can be performed on adults of many ages, it is especially popular among patients in their 40s, 50s, and beyond who are experiencing age-related facial changes. 

A consultation with Dr. Braithwaite or Dr. Cobbins can help determine whether eyelid surgery is appropriate for your needs and whether it should be performed alone or in combination with other facial rejuvenation procedures, such as facelift surgery or a brow lift. 

Personalized Eyelid Surgery in Chicago 

At The Aesthetic Institute of Chicago, eyelid surgery is never approached as a one-size-fits-all solution. Dr. Braithwaite and Dr. Cobbins carefully evaluate each patient’s concerns, aesthetic goals, and facial anatomy to craft a personalized treatment plan. Their experience and meticulous attention to detail help produce refined, natural-looking results designed to stand the test of time.

If drooping eyelids, under-eye bags, or a tired appearance are affecting your confidence or quality of life, eyelid surgery may be the option you’ve been looking for. Contact our practice to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward more refreshed eyes and renewed confidence.