Drooping eyelids, eyelid puffiness, and excess eyelid skin can make facial features look tired and affect vision over time. The blepharoplasty procedure improves cosmetic and functional concerns by removing skin, fat deposits, and excess fat with precision. Whether choosing upper blepharoplasty for better vision or facial rejuvenation, Dr. Virginia Bailey—a fellowship-trained plastic surgeon in Austin—uses masterful technique for lasting results while preserving the harmony of facial structures and eyes.
Blepharoplasty, also called eyelid surgery, is a targeted eyelid procedure that removes excess skin, fatty tissue, and fat deposits from the eyelids. It enhances the shape of the eyelids, softens wrinkles, reduces the appearance of bags from aging or heredity factors, and improves vision by lifting drooping upper eyelids. As a refined cosmetic procedure, blepharoplasty rejuvenates the eyes and creates a healthier, younger-looking face by addressing thinning tissue and under-eye bags.
Dr. Bailey combines functional and cosmetic techniques to tailor each plan to the patient’s unique facial anatomy, eyebrow structure, and skin elasticity, preserving subtle facial refinements while restoring natural balance.
This method focuses on the upper eyelid, where removing excess skin and fat deposits creates a noticeable eyelid lift. By correcting droopy eyelids and minimizing sagging skin, upper eyelid surgery restores clearer vision and a refreshed appearance. The surgery uses precise incisions along the eyelid crease to remove extra skin and fatty tissue with minimal scarring. Local anesthesia is typically used, ensuring comfort while protecting delicate tissue and facial structures.
Lower blepharoplasty targets the lower eyelid, where patients experience eyelid puffiness, under-eye bags, wrinkles, and dark circles. By removing eyelid fat and excess skin, the procedure smooths the eyelid contour, improving the appearance of bags and facial features. A transconjunctival approach may avoid external incisions, while fat transposition refines results. This technique preserves natural skin appearance, reduces irregularities, and supports a healthier, younger-looking face with faster recovery in the first days and weeks.
For patients with drooping upper eyelids and puffy lower eyelids, a combined procedure may be recommended. This approach addresses multiple concerns at once, improving balance across the eyelids and facial structure. By combining cosmetic procedures with functional techniques, it enhances beauty, refines facial anatomy, and improves harmony with the eyebrow structure. For many people, it improves vision, reduces the appearance of bags, and enhances their sense of aesthetics.
Ideal candidates for blepharoplasty in Austin have visible signs of aging in the eyelids. Common issues include droopy eyelid skin, thinning tissue, and excess skin that obstructs vision, along with under-eye puffiness caused by heredity factors. Many eyelid surgery patients experience a tired or aged appearance from these changes.
Blepharoplasty is a multi-step eyelid surgery that addresses droopy eyelids, eyelid puffiness, and excess skin for a more youthful appearance and, in some cases, improved vision. Dr. Virginia Bailey guides each patient through every part of the journey. Delivering natural results that respect each patient’s sense of aesthetics.
The first step is a one-on-one consultation where Dr. Bailey evaluates eyelid structure, skin elasticity, muscles, and medical history. She determines the best surgical plan—whether functional blepharoplasty or cosmetic blepharoplasty—by:
Blepharoplasty is usually performed as an outpatient procedure with local anesthesia. Key steps include:
Most patients experience mild swelling and bruising for a few days after surgery, resuming light activity within a week. Dr. Bailey provides detailed aftercare instructions to support healing, reduce complications, and guide eyelid surgery recovery time. Key milestones include:
Dr. Virginia Bailey is a fellowship-trained plastic surgeon focusing on blepharoplasty for droopy eyelids, excess eyelid skin, and eyelid puffiness. By combining cosmetic blepharoplasty with functional techniques, she delivers natural, lasting improvements. Her patient-first approach ensures personalized care from consultation to complete healing.
Whether you seek upper eyelid surgery to improve vision or refresh tired eyelids, Dr. Bailey tailors each blepharoplasty procedure to your facial structure. She may also recommend procedures like a brow lift for full facial rejuvenation. Throughout the process, she prioritizes clear communication, minimized risks, and a smooth recovery aligned with your goals.
In Austin, Texas, blepharoplasty typically ranges from about $3,000 to $5,500 or more, depending on factors like surgeon expertise, facility fees, and whether upper or lower eyelids (or both) are addressed. For an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs, we recommend scheduling a personal consultation with Dr. Virginia Bailey’s office.
Most patients seeking blepharoplasty are typically in their 40s to 60s, when signs of aging like droopy eyelids or under-eye bags become more noticeable. However, the procedure can benefit younger individuals experiencing hereditary eyelid issues, making personal consultation the best way to determine the right timing for your needs.
Potential downsides of blepharoplasty include temporary swelling, bruising, and the risk of complications such as infection or poor healing. While most patients experience smooth recoveries and long-lasting benefits, it’s essential to follow your surgeon’s post-operative guidelines and attend follow-up visits to minimize any adverse effects.
Results from blepharoplasty can last 10 years or more, although individual factors like genetics, skin care, and aging patterns play a role in overall longevity. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, protecting your eyes from sun damage, and following your surgeon’s recommendations help extend the benefits and keep your eyes looking refreshed.
Many patients combine blepharoplasty with other cosmetic or reconstructive procedures to achieve comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Below are some common options:
Brow lifts reposition the eyebrows and reduce forehead lines, creating a more open, refreshed look. When combined with eyelid surgery, the entire upper face gains a balanced, youthful appearance.
For those seeking more extensive facial rejuvenation, a facelift addresses sagging skin in the cheeks and jawline. Combining blepharoplasty with a facelift creates cohesive enhancements that blend seamlessly across the face.
Treatments like laser resurfacing or chemical peels improve skin texture and tone. Pairing these procedures with blepharoplasty can enhance overall results and provide a smoother, more radiant complexion.
