Upper Blepharoplasty in Washington, DC

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED TO SERVE WASHINGTON, DC

Excess skin on the upper eyelids can make the eyes look heavy or tired. In some cases, it can also interfere with the upper field of vision. Upper blepharoplasty in Washington, DC removes this excess skin to create a more open appearance while maintaining the natural character of the eyes.

At The DC Cosmetic Surgery Center, Dr. Michael Olding evaluates each patient to determine whether upper eyelid surgery is appropriate for their anatomy and concerns.

What Is Upper Blepharoplasty?

Upper blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes loose or excess skin from the upper eyelids. Aging can cause the skin around the eyes to lose elasticity and begin to fold over the eyelid. Some people also develop hooding because of inherited anatomy.

The procedure focuses specifically on the upper lids. Patients who also have bags, puffiness, or excess skin beneath the eyes may need an additional approach. Our eyelid surgery page provides more information about treating both the upper and lower eyelids.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Upper Blepharoplasty?

Upper blepharoplasty may be appropriate for adults bothered by excess upper eyelid skin or hooding. During your consultation, Dr. Olding will examine the eyelids and surrounding structures to determine whether surgery addresses the source of your concern.

Candidates may have:

  • Excess or loose upper eyelid skin
  • Hooding over the eyelid
  • Visual obstruction related to excess skin
  • Good general health
  • Realistic expectations for surgery

Not every drooping or heavy eyelid is caused by excess skin. Dr. Olding will evaluate the cause before recommending surgery.

What to Expect During Upper Blepharoplasty

Upper blepharoplasty is performed through an incision placed within the natural crease of the upper eyelid. Dr. Olding removes the amount of excess skin needed for correction and may address other tissue when appropriate.

Placing the incision within the eyelid fold helps it become less noticeable as healing progresses.

Many upper eyelid-only procedures can be performed in our office using local anesthesia. The surgical setting and type of anesthesia will depend on the extent of surgery and whether another procedure is performed simultaneously.

Recovery After Upper Blepharoplasty

Swelling and bruising are common during the early recovery period. Cold compresses and keeping the head elevated may help reduce these effects.

Dr. Olding will provide instructions for incision care and explain when you can safely return to work and exercise. Most patients need some time away from work and social activities while the initial swelling and bruising improve. The eyelids continue to settle over the following weeks.

Patients coming from outside Washington, DC can review our patient accommodations when planning for surgery and early recovery.

What Can Upper Blepharoplasty Improve?

Upper blepharoplasty removes excess skin that contributes to hooding of the upper lids. Depending on the degree of correction needed, the procedure may improve both the appearance of the eyelids and visual obstruction caused by redundant skin.

Potential improvements include:

  • Less hooding of the upper eyelids
  • A more open and rested appearance
  • Reduced heaviness caused by excess skin
  • Improved upper peripheral vision when excess skin is obstructing it

Dr. Olding plans the amount of correction according to the patient’s existing anatomy, with the goal of avoiding an overcorrected appearance.

You can review his eyelid surgery before-and-after photos to see examples of previous results.

How Much Does Upper Blepharoplasty Cost?

The cost of upper blepharoplasty in Washington, DC varies according to the surgical plan, anesthesia, treatment setting, and whether another procedure is performed at the same time.

Once your treatment plan is established, our team can review the expected cost with you.

Why Choose The DC Cosmetic Surgery Center?

Surgery around the eyes requires careful evaluation because changes in the upper eyelids can affect both appearance and function.

Dr. Michael Olding is a board-certified plastic surgeon who completed surgical training at Cornell Medical Center and fellowship training at McGill University. He is Professor of Surgery at The George Washington University School of Medicine. He has also served as Chief of Cosmetic Surgery and Director of the Cosmetic Surgery Center.

Dr. Olding performs his own surgeries and emphasizes clear communication and realistic expectations. For upper blepharoplasty, that begins with determining what is causing the eyelids to appear heavy and how much correction is appropriate.

Upper Blepharoplasty FAQs

Upper blepharoplasty is intended to remove excess tissue rather than create a different eye shape. Dr. Olding plans the procedure according to your existing anatomy so the result remains proportionate to the rest of your face.
The incision is typically positioned within the natural crease of the upper eyelid. It may be more noticeable early in recovery, but it generally becomes less visible as healing progresses.
It can help when excess upper eyelid skin extends into the visual field. Dr. Olding can determine whether excess skin is contributing to your symptoms or whether another condition may be responsible.
The skin removed during surgery does not return, so improvement can remain visible for many years. The eyelids and surrounding tissues will continue to change naturally with age.
Yes. Upper eyelid surgery may be performed with lower blepharoplasty or another facial procedure when appropriate. Dr. Olding can discuss whether combining procedures makes sense based on your concerns and surgical plan.

Look More Rested Without Looking Overdone

Changes to the upper eyelids can make the eyes appear heavier or more tired. Upper blepharoplasty can address excess skin while maintaining the natural proportions of your eyelids.

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