What is an Eyelid Surgery?

An eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty in Chicago at That Face, delivers long-lasting results but must be performed with precision and advanced skills to produce a natural result. Our approach is to achieve a rejuvenated look that is natural and never overdone.

Eyelid Surgery (Upper Eyelid)

  • Price range: $3500
  • Recovery time: 3-7 days of social downtime
  • Discomfort level: Mild
  • Anesthesia options: Local, IV sedation, General

Eyelid Surgery (Lower Eyelid)

  • Price range: $5000
  • Recovery time: 5-7 days of social downtime
  • Discomfort level: Mild
  • Anesthesia options: IV sedation, General 

Blepharoplasty Before & After

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Understanding Upper Eyelid Surgery: Finding the Right Time

Ready to Look Refreshed?

The eyes are the window to the soul, and with eyelid surgery, you can make the most of this beautiful feature. As you age, your skin loses its natural elasticity, and the eyelids develop folds and begin to sag. This natural progression leads to a droopy “hooded” look in your eyes. Some people develop visible under-eye bags or bulges. This excess skin can make you appear tired, unhappy, or older than you want. With eyelid surgery, you can achieve a rejuvenated, younger-looking eye area and a more alert and welcoming appearance. Eyelid surgery can improve the appearance of:

  • Droopy eyelids
  • Loose or sagging skin on your upper eyelids
  • Excess skin that interferes with your vision
  • Bags under your eyes
  • Fatty deposits lodged above or beneath the eyes
  • Puffy eyelids
  • Hooded eyes

How Can I Choose a Surgeon that Does Eyelid Surgery in Chicago?

The typical eyelid surgery candidate is 35 years or older, but it may also be an option for younger patients if droopy eyelids or undereye bags are a family trait. Dr. Sulyman-Scott will examine your facial anatomy and ask you questions about your medical history, your aesthetic goals, and what you hope to achieve. Her goal is to ensure you are heard and understood and have a shared goal for your aesthetic outcome. In some cases, another procedure may be more suitable to help you achieve your goals.

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What is the Surgery Like?

The first step in eyelid surgery is the administration of anesthesia. Local anesthesia is typically all that is needed. Dr. Sulyman-Scott will make precise incisions in your eyelids to meticulously remove the proper amount of excess skin and fat.

The incisions will be strategically placed to minimize any visible scars. The muscles may be tightened and lifted. After the incisions are closed with sutures, your eyelid surgery is complete. The entire process typically takes about two hours.

After the procedure, you will need to have someone available to drive you home. Your eyes will be bandaged, your vision may be blurry for a few hours (a result of the anesthetic), and your eyes may be dry or watery.

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How Much Time Will I Need to Recover?

Dr. Sulyman-Scott will monitor your recovery and provide you with detailed instructions for your post-surgery care. You will have stitches for about a week, and it is normal to experience some swelling or bruising. Cold compresses can help alleviate any swelling. Generally, swelling and bruising will subside on their own within 10 to 14 days. Most patients require about one to two weeks of downtime before confidently returning to their regular activities.

It is essential to protect your eyes from the sun and wear dark sunglasses until your eyelids are fully healed. After a week, you will have your initial follow-up appointment with Dr. Sulyman-Scott, and she will remove your sutures. Dr. Sulyman-Scott will monitor your recovery to ensure you are healing correctly. You will have two additional appointments following your surgery—four weeks post-surgery and three months post-surgery.

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Will I Get the Results I Want?

Dr. Sulyman-Scott enjoys performing eyelid surgeries because of how much her patients love their results. A blepharoplasty in Chicago immediately refreshes your eyes and restores a more youthful look that is both subtle and dramatic. Your in-depth consultation before surgery will ensure that you are on the same page regarding the aesthetic outcome of your surgery. It is also essential to Dr. Sulyman-Scott to ensure that you understand the limitations of surgery and that the healing process varies from patient to patient.

How Long Will My Results Last?

After about 10 to 14 days, the swelling and bruising will fade and the results of your eyelid surgery will be revealed. The appearance of your eyes will continue to improve in the weeks following the surgery. You can expect to be very happy with the results of eyelid surgery, enjoying a natural, youthful look with results that will last for many years.

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Eyelid Surgery Recovery Tips 

  1. Follow your surgeon's instructions: It's important to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon strictly.
  2. Apply cold compresses: Using cold compresses can help reduce swelling and bruising. Gently apply them to your eyelids as recommended by your surgeon.
  3. Take prescribed medications: If your surgeon has prescribed any medications, take them as directed to manage pain and swelling and prevent infection.
  4. Protect your eyes: Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes to prevent irritation or injury. Use sunglasses or protective eyewear when going outside to shield your eyes from sunlight and wind.
  5. Keep your head elevated: While resting or sleeping, keep your head elevated with pillows to minimize swelling.
  6. Avoid strenuous activities: Refrain from engaging in strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or bending over for a few weeks to allow proper healing.
  7. Avoid makeup and contact lenses: Avoid wearing eye makeup and contact lenses until your surgeon gives you the green light. This helps prevent infection and irritation.
  8. Eat a healthy diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in nutrients can aid healing. Include foods high in vitamins A and C, such as leafy greens and citrus fruits.
  9. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which promotes healing and helps minimize swelling.
  10. Attend follow-up appointments: Regularly attend your scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and address any concerns.

Eyelid Surgery Complications

All surgical procedures are at risk of certain complications, and so is blepharoplasty. However, the chances are significantly reduced when eyelid surgery is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Sulyman-Scott.

  • While most side effects are mild and temporary, some of the complications associated with eyelid surgery include:
  • Irritated, dry, or itchy eyes
  • Trouble opening and closing your eyes
  • Scarring that is more noticeable than expected
  • Discolored skin tone around your eyes
  • Infection and bleeding
  • Temporary blurred vision or loss

Again, these risks can be reduced by a professional and accredited surgeon experienced in performing eyelid surgeries. Dr. Sulyman-Scott has mastered the most advanced facial plastic surgery techniques to ensure your safety and minimize eyelid surgery complications.

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Eyelid Surgery FAQ

Will my insurance cover my eyelid surgery?

What do I need to do before my eyelid surgery?

What is the ideal age for eyelid surgery?

Will I have visible scarring after eyelid surgery?

Will I be in pain after the surgery?

Will my insurance cover my eyelid surgery?

If your eyelids are significantly obstructing your vision, then your health insurance may assist you with the cost of eyelid surgery. However, if the procedure is being done purely for cosmetic reasons, it will not be covered by insurance.

What do I need to do before my eyelid surgery?

Before your eyelid surgery, it’s important that you: Refrain from eating or drinking for eight hours prior to your surgery, Arrange transportation to and from your procedure, Stop taking aspirin and blood thinners for five to seven days prior to your surgery, Refrain from smoking for two weeks prior to your surgery.

What is the ideal age for eyelid surgery?

Although most people undergo blepharoplasty in their forties or fifties, there’s no perfect age for the procedure. As long as you’re over the age of 18, you could be an ideal candidate for eyelid surgery.

Will I have visible scarring after eyelid surgery?

Dr. Sulyman-Scott will be careful to place your incisions in areas where they will be as hidden as possible. Usually, once you’ve had time to heal, any scarring from eyelid surgery will be almost entirely invisible.

Will I be in pain after the surgery?

Most patients experience only minimal discomfort after eyelid surgery. Any pain you do encounter will likely subside within a day or two of the procedure.

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Dr. Sulyman-Scott is Here to Make You Feel Beautiful

Dr. Sulyman-Scott is one of the few female African American facial plastic surgeons in practice in the USA. As a former nurse and ENT, Dr. Sulyman-Scott understands the importance of genuine care, kindness, and compassion. She will listen to your goals, wishes, and any concerns you may have to ensure that you feel heard and understood. Having mastered the most advanced facial plastic surgery techniques, Dr. Sulyman-Scott is here to create exceptionally natural-looking results that will bring you joy and confidence throughout your life’s journey.

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