Is an Upper Eyelid Surgery Painful?

Eyelid surgeries are typically not considered to be very painful. Most patients are able to stop prescription pain medications and use just Tylenol after 2-3 days. Some bruising around the eyelids may occur, which typically resolves 5-7 days after surgery.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

For upper eyelid surgery, you’ll typically need two to three appointments with Dr. Shastri. The first is your initial consultation, where Dr. Shastri will assess your eyelids. Next is the surgery day itself, which is done on an outpatient basis, so you won’t need an overnight stay. After the procedure, you’ll have a follow-up appointment to ensure everything is healing properly, remove sutures, and address concerns. Depending on your recovery, additional follow-up visits may be needed, but Dr. Shastri will guide you through each step of the process.

How Long Until I See Results?

You’ll start to notice some improvement in the appearance of your eyelids right away after upper eyelid surgery, but the final results typically become clear within 1 to 2 months. Swelling and bruising usually subside within the first few weeks, so you’ll see a noticeable difference as healing progresses.

What Will the Scarring Look Like?

Scarring from upper eyelid surgery is typically minimal and well-hidden. The incisions are made along the natural folds of your eyelids, so they are usually barely noticeable once healed. Over time, the scars will fade and become even less noticeable.

When Can I Exercise Again After My Upper Eyelid Surgery?

After upper eyelid surgery, give your body the time it needs to heal before resuming intense physical activity. Dr. Shastri recommends waiting at least two to three weeks before engaging in strenuous exercises, such as running, weightlifting, or anything that could increase blood flow to your face. However, light activities like walking can be resumed sooner.

Can I Combine an Upper Eyelid Surgery With Other Procedures?

Upper blepharoplasties can be performed alone but are often combined with lower blepharoplasty or other procedures such as brow lifts, facelifts , neck lifts , and chin implants . During the consultation, Dr. Shastri can review your images and help you determine a treatment plan that can comprehensively address all of your facial concerns.

What Are the Risks Associated With an Upper Eyelid Surgery?

Blepharoplasties are generally considered safe surgery with a relatively quick recovery time and limited pain. Risks and complications are rare but certainly are possible no matter how experienced a facial plastic surgeon may be. Risks include the following: Bleeding Infection Scarring Asymmetry Temporary or permanent loss of sensation During your consultation, Dr. Shastri will thoroughly discuss the risks and benefits and take all necessary precautions to minimize the risk of complications.

How Do I Find the Best Upper Eyelid Surgery Plastic Surgeon in Chicago Near Me?

To find the right surgeon for your upper eyelid surgery in Chicago, start by looking for board-certified plastic surgeons with solid experience in eyelid procedures. Take time to review their qualifications, especially their experience with blepharoplasty. Scheduling consultations is key—this gives you the chance to discuss your goals and see if you’re comfortable with their approach. Don’t forget to ask to see before-and-after photos of past patients to get a feel for their work. Finally, checking patient reviews will help ensure you’re choosing a surgeon who delivers excellent results and has a great reputation.

Chicago, IL

Upper Eyelid Surgery

Introduction

Introduction to Upper Eyelid Surgery

Excess skin around the eyes can leave you looking tired and worn out, but upper eyelid surgery offers a transformative solution to restore both the appearance and function of your eyes. Our board-certified surgeons at SG Facial Plastic Surgery in Chicago, use advanced techniques to create natural, beautiful results that leave you looking refreshed and rejuvenated. Let our board-certified surgeons help you achieve the youthful, vibrant eyes you’ve been longing for.

Before & After Photos

Upper Eyelid Surgery B&A

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What is Upper Eyelid Surgery?

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid lift surgery, is designed to improve the appearance of sagging eyelid skin and fat around the eyes. Drooping eyelids or under-eye bags can make a person look tired; in some cases, the excess skin may even impair vision.

The surgery addresses the upper eyelids by removing excess skin and fat that can cause them to droop. The incision is made along the natural eyelid crease, making it virtually invisible once healed.

Close-up of a blonde woman resting her head and elbows on a surface, gazing downward with a contemplative expression. Soft lighting highlights her features, while a dark background enhances focus on her face. - Upper Eyelid Surgery in Glenview, IL

What Are the Benefits of Upper Eyelid Surgery?

Upper eyelid surgery in Chicago offers several benefits that can enhance both appearance and function:

Improved vision
Enhanced appearance
Increased comfort

If you’re considering upper eyelid surgery, consulting with our board-certified surgeons at SG Facial Plastic Surgery in Chicago can help determine if it’s the right option for you.

Who Are the Best Candidates for Upper Eyelid Surgery?

Upper eyelid surgery addresses issues such as sagging eyelids, puffiness, and excess skin around the eyes. Ideal candidates are:

Those without medical conditions that could impair healing, like uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension.
Candidates should not have serious eye conditions, such as glaucoma or detached retina, that could complicate the procedure.
While there is no strict age limit, many candidates are at least 30 years old. However, age is not the sole determining factor; overall health and specific concerns are more critical.
Individuals experiencing vision impairment due to sagging upper eyelids may be considered for blepharoplasty, especially if the condition affects peripheral vision.

It’s essential to consult with our board-certified surgeons to determine if blepharoplasty is appropriate for your specific situation.

Consultation and Assessment

What’s the first step?

During your visit, our board-certified surgeons will start by asking about your facial anatomy goals. After a thorough analysis, he will discuss how he can help you realize your goals while still preserving a natural, balanced facial appearance. He can modify your photographs in real time to ensure that you are both on the same page about a realistic outcome. our board-certified surgeons will take the time to ensure that you feel heard and confident about the surgical plan.

What to Expect on the Day of Upper Eyelid Surgery Surgery

Upper blepharoplasties can be performed in-office with just local anesthesia or can be combined with lower blepharoplasty or other facial surgeries under general anesthesia.
In an upper blepharoplasty, our board-certified surgeons carefully mark incision lines along the natural creases of the upper eyelids and then uses these to remove excess/sagging skin and fat. The remaining tissues are tightened and repositioned to create a smoother eyelid contour.

At the end of the procedure, ointment and ice are applied to the closure. Patients typically spend 1-2 hours in a recovery room after surgery and can be taken home. Sutures are typically removed 5-7 days after surgery.

Upper Eyelid Surgery Recovery

Recovery varies from person to person and depends on how much work is needed, but generally, healing can be thought of in 3 phases:

Phase 1: After surgery, a pressure dressing is typically applied to the forehead, which can be removed at home or in the office 1-2 days later. Patients are given detailed instructions for routine wound care for staples or sutures at the incision sites. They are encouraged to take the first week off for rest and recovery at home, and they typically can return to work after the first week of postoperative appointments.
Phase 2: Gradually, between weeks 2-6 after surgery, swelling and bruising improve; any residual bruising can be easily concealed with makeup during this time. Patients may start to resume exercise and heavy lifting by 3-4 weeks after surgery. By week 6, approximately 75-80% of swelling has resolved.
Phase 3: After 6 weeks, the majority of the forehead swelling has improved, and the face continues to heal and settle for several months. Results are typically not considered final until one year after surgery.

How Much Does an Upper Eyelid Surgery Cost in Chicago, IL?

The cost of upper eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) in Chicago, IL, typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000.

It’s always best to schedule a consultation with our board-certified surgeons to get an accurate estimate based on your specific needs and goals.

Why Choose SG Facial Plastic Surgery?

Choosing SG Facial Plastic Surgery means placing your care in the hands of two fellowship-trained, board-certified facial plastic surgeons whose combined expertise is rarely found under one roof. Dr. Karthik Shastri, recognized as an Echols Scholar at the University of Virginia for ranking among the top 5% of students, completed his facial plastic surgery fellowship at Vanderbilt University Medical Center through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and has been honored with multiple awards for his research during residency. Dr. Kurren Gill graduated at the top of his medical school class and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society before completing his fellowship at Northwestern Memorial Hospital — ranked the No. 1 hospital in Illinois and No. 9 nationally by U.S. News & World Report. Together, they bring advanced techniques in rhinoplasty, deep-plane facelift, eyelid surgery, facial reanimation, and reconstructive surgery to every patient, backed by a shared commitment to safety, innovation, and natural, long-lasting results — and the added confidence of two expert perspectives guiding every case.

Our in-office surgical suite is fully equipped to handle every procedure we perform, eliminating the need for patients to travel to a separate surgery center or hospital — reflecting our commitment to convenience without ever compromising on the standard of care.

Upper Eyelid Surgery FAQ’S

For upper eyelid surgery, you’ll typically need two to three appointments with Dr. Shastri. The first is your initial consultation, where Dr. Shastri will assess your eyelids. Next is the surgery day itself, which is done on an outpatient basis, so you won’t need an overnight stay. After the procedure, you’ll have a follow-up appointment to ensure everything is healing properly, remove sutures, and address concerns. Depending on your recovery, additional follow-up visits may be needed, but Dr. Shastri will guide you through each step of the process.
After upper eyelid surgery, give your body the time it needs to heal before resuming intense physical activity. Dr. Shastri recommends waiting at least two to three weeks before engaging in strenuous exercises, such as running, weightlifting, or anything that could increase blood flow to your face. However, light activities like walking can be resumed sooner.
Blepharoplasties are generally considered safe surgery with a relatively quick recovery time and limited pain. Risks and complications are rare but certainly are possible no matter how experienced a facial plastic surgeon may be. Risks include the following:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Scarring
- Asymmetry
- Temporary or permanent loss of sensation
During your consultation, Dr. Shastri will thoroughly discuss the risks and benefits and take all necessary precautions to minimize the risk of complications.
To find the right surgeon for your upper eyelid surgery in Chicago, start by looking for board-certified plastic surgeons with solid experience in eyelid procedures. Take time to review their qualifications, especially their experience with blepharoplasty. Scheduling consultations is key—this gives you the chance to discuss your goals and see if you’re comfortable with their approach. Don’t forget to ask to see before-and-after photos of past patients to get a feel for their work. Finally, checking patient reviews will help ensure you’re choosing a surgeon who delivers excellent results and has a great reputation.

5.0 – 3 Reviews

Mohs Procedure

I had a very minor Mohs procedure about a year ago. It has healed incredibly well and the scar is barely visible (people do not notice it unless I point it out to them). The receptionist at the hospital told me that Dr. Shastri was “phenomenal” and that I was in great hands before my procedure. This was true. As someone else described in a previous review, Dr. Shastri exudes a calm confidence and is gentle. He did an excellent job stitching up my wound and monitoring the scar throughout the healing process. I appreciate his attentiveness; his skillful suturing is like a work of art. I am grateful that I was referred to him by my dermatologist. He is a phenomenal plastic surgeon — both in his work and bedside manner

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Mohs Surgery

Dr. Shastri was very competent at my facial Mohs surgery and thats saying alot, it was major.. His skill is obvious, as more than 15 tiny stitches were virtually painless and will be hard to spot. He was punctual. Clear regarding the procedure. Super bedside manor. Highly recommend him and his staff.

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Skin Cancer

Wonderful! He patiently explained the different types of skins cancers, identified the one I had, then described how he would treat it. He answered all my questions, even the dumb ones. He just exuded a calm competence. For the skin graft, I felt like I’d had the benefit of an artist ad well as a doctor. Mary, the nurse, contributed greatly to making the entire experience positive. The online system for getting an appointment, confirming it and messaging the medical team is complicated, Byzantine, and frustrating, particularly for old guys like me. However it is definitely worth struggling through it. If I could add more stars I would.

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Meet the Doctor

Schedule a Consultation

Schedule your consultation for upper eyelid surgery with our board-certified surgeons today. Our board-certified surgeons’ expertise in facial plastic surgery ensures you’ll receive personalized care at every step. At SG Facial Plastic Surgery in Chicago, Dr. Shastri and Dr. Gill are dedicated to providing the highest level of treatment using the latest techniques. Contact us now at (847) 535-6545 to begin your journey toward refreshed, youthful-looking eyes.