Upper vs. Lower Blepharoplasty: What’s the Difference?

Woman touching the skin around her eyes, highlighting concerns that may be treated with upper or lower blepharoplasty. The eyes often show changes before the rest of the face. Heavy upper lids can make your eyes look smaller or more tired, while under-eye bags and shadows can make you look worn out even after a full night of sleep. Upper and lower eyelid surgery treat different areas, so the right choice depends on what is causing the change.

In Mullica Hill, NJ, Dr. Sean M. Bidic and Dr. Vinay S. Gundlapalli perform blepharoplasty at American Surgical Arts with support from our team. Both surgeons are double board-certified and experienced in cosmetic and reconstructive surgical planning.

What Upper Blepharoplasty Treats

Upper blepharoplasty focuses on the upper eyelids. It may be considered when loose skin, muscle, or fat creates a hooded, heavy, or aged look.

The incision is typically placed in the natural upper eyelid crease. This allows the surgeon to remove or refine excess tissue while keeping the incision discreet once healed.

Upper eyelid surgery may help if you notice:

  • Skin resting on the upper lashes
  • A hidden or less visible eyelid crease
  • Heavy-looking eyes
  • Makeup that smudges or becomes harder to apply
  • A tired expression caused by excess upper lid tissue

What Lower Blepharoplasty Treats

Lower blepharoplasty addresses the area beneath the eyes. It is often used for puffiness, under-eye bags, lower lid laxity, or hollowing caused by changes in fat and tissue support.

Depending on your anatomy, the incision may be placed along the lash line or inside the lower eyelid. The surgeon may remove, reposition, or adjust fatty tissue to create a smoother transition between the lower eyelid and upper cheek.

Lower eyelid surgery may be a better match if under-eye bags, shadows, or hollowness bother you most.

When the Brow or Volume Is Part of the Issue

Sometimes the problem is not the eyelid itself. A low brow can push skin downward and make the upper lids look heavier. In that case, a brow lift may need to be discussed.

Under-eye changes are not always surgical either. If the issue is volume loss rather than extra skin or fat, dermal fillers may be a better option.

Can Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty Be Combined?

Yes. Upper and lower eyelid surgery can often be performed together when both areas need correction. Some people also combine eyelid surgery with facelift surgery or another facial procedure for a more complete result.

Talk Through Your Eyelid Surgery Options

The first step is finding out whether the change comes from extra skin, fat, brow position, volume loss, or a combination of factors. If your eyes are making you look tired, contact us to request a consultation with American Surgical Arts in Mullica Hill, NJ. You can also call 856-362-8898 to meet with Dr. Bidic or Dr. Gundlapalli.

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