Is Upper Eyelid Surgery Painful?

Upper eyelid surgery is generally well tolerated, and most patients report minimal discomfort rather than pain. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with sedation, ensuring comfort throughout surgery. Postoperative soreness, tightness, or mild irritation is common but often resolves within a few days.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Patients can expect several appointments as part of their surgical journey. This includes an initial consultation, a pre-op visit, the day of surgery, and one or more postoperative follow-up visits to monitor healing and remove sutures if necessary. Follow-up care is critical to the process, allowing your surgeon to ensure proper healing and address any concerns promptly.

How Long Until I See the Results?

Initial improvements are visible once swelling begins to subside, often within the first one to two weeks. However, final results continue to refine over several months as the tissues fully heal and settle into their new contour. Patients often notice that their eyes appear brighter, more open, and well-rested, with scars fading discreetly into the natural eyelid crease over time. The results are long-lasting and age gracefully.

Can I Combine Upper Eyelid Surgery with Other Procedures?

Yes, upper eyelid surgery is frequently combined with other facial procedures, which can include lower eyelid surgery , brow lift, facelift , or non-surgical treatments such as Botox or dermal fillers. During consultation, Dr. Papafragkou or Dr. Rhee evaluates whether combining procedures is appropriate based on anatomy, goals, and recovery considerations. When done thoughtfully, combination procedures can enhance overall facial harmony while minimizing total downtime.

What Are the Risks Associated with Upper Eyelid Surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, upper eyelid surgery carries some risks, including swelling, bruising, infection, temporary dryness, or asymmetry. Rare complications may include changes in sensation or delayed healing. Choosing a highly trained, board-certified surgeon significantly reduces these risks, and as your surgeon thoroughly reviews all potential risks during consultation, patients can proceed with confidence and clarity.

Upper Eyelid Surgery

Roslyn Heights, NY

Introduction

Eyelid Surgery Services Offered in Long Island and Roslyn Heights, NY

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) can transform your eyes, restoring a younger and less-tired appearance. At Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island in Roslyn Heights, New York, the experienced team of surgical specialists is led by Susie Rhee, MD, and Sotirios Papafragkou, MD, FACS, who trained under the world’s leading expert in eyelid surgery. To learn more about upper and lower eyelid surgery, call the office or use the online booking link.

We are a Plastic Surgery center and offer Breast Reduction, Tummy Tuck, and Mommy Makeover services. Call us to book your appointment today.

Our team at Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island (PSAOLI) proudly serves patients throughout Long Island, including Roslyn, Roslyn Heights, Garden City, and Manhasset, NY.

Before & After Gallery

Before & After Results

A woman with reddish-brown hair and a black top smiles softly while leaning forward.

What is Upper Eyelid Surgery (Upper Blepharoplasty)?

Upper eyelid surgery focuses on removing excess skin and fat around the upper eyelids, which can give the appearance of a “hooded eye” or impair vision. In most cases, this can result from certain genetic factors, but it can be uncomfortable for many patients or visually unappealing to others. This outpatient procedure involves delicately removing excess tissue and fat to smooth the skin and create a more open appearance of the eye. It’s a simple surgery with dramatic benefits.

When Might I Need Eyelid Surgery?

There are both medical and cosmetic reasons to choose eyelid surgery. For example, sagging upper eyelids can impair vision, and sagging lower eyelids can cause chronically dry eyes. But most people choose eyelid surgery because it greatly improves the appearance of the skin around the eyes.

Some common reasons to have blepharoplasty surgery include:

Sagging upper eyelids

Puffy upper eyelids

Under-eye bags

Sagging lower eyelids

Fine lines beneath the eyes

Who Are the Best Candidates for Upper Blepharoplasty Surgery?

The best candidates for upper eyelid surgery are individuals who are bothered by excess upper eyelid skin, puffiness, or a tired appearance that does not improve with rest or skincare. Many patients seek treatment because their eyelids feel heavy or interfere with vision, while others are primarily concerned with aesthetics. Both motivations are equally valid and commonly overlap.

Ideal candidates in the Long Island area are generally in good overall health, do not have uncontrolled medical conditions, and do not smoke, or are willing to stop smoking before and after surgery to promote proper healing.

What Are the Benefits of Upper Eyelid Surgery?

Upper eyelid surgery offers both functional and aesthetic benefits, making it one of the most impactful facial procedures available. By carefully removing excess skin and addressing bulging fat, the procedure restores a more open, refreshed appearance to the eyes while preserving each patient’s natural anatomy. Many patients report looking more awake, less stressed, and more youthful, often without others recognizing that surgery was performed.

From a medical standpoint, upper eyelid surgery can significantly improve visual obstruction caused by sagging skin that overhangs the lashes. Patients who previously struggled with peripheral vision or eye fatigue often experience noticeable relief following surgery. In addition, reducing the weight of heavy upper eyelids can decrease forehead strain and chronic brow tension caused by subconscious overcompensation.

A blonde woman in a black blazer smiles warmly as she hands a white clipboard over a reception desk to a patient.

What’s the First Step?

Begin your journey with a personalized consultation that’s all about creating a plan that suits your goals. From his Long Island practice, Dr. Papafragkou and Dr. Rhee take the time to understand your concerns, goals, and medical history, and to perform a detailed examination of the eyelids and surrounding facial structures.

Photographs may be taken for surgical planning, and you are encouraged to ask questions about technique, recovery, and expected outcomes. If vision obstruction is a concern, documentation may be discussed for functional evaluation. Your surgeon will then outline a customized surgical plan and review all available options to ensure you feel confident and fully informed before proceeding.

What Can I Expect During Eyelid Surgery Recovery?

Most people return to work within a few days or a week. If you wear contact lenses, you must switch to glasses for the next couple of weeks. And, you can’t wear eye makeup of any type during your recovery. If you have stitches, you’ll return to Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island three or four days after your eyelid surgery for removal. It’s important to protect your eyes from the sun and bright light, as they may be extra sensitive for a few weeks. The Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island surgeons have superior skills and can give you outstanding results. If you’re tired of looking tired, call the office or click the online booking tool to learn more about eyelid surgery now.

How Does The Eyelid Surgery Process Work?

Eyelid surgery is usually an outpatient procedure. You receive local anesthesia and a sedative medication to keep you comfortable during the procedure. In upper eyelid surgery, the incision runs along the natural eyelid crease, and the surgeon removes excess fat and skin through it. Tiny sutures or surgical adhesive close the incisions. In lower eyelid surgery, the Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island surgeons create an incision just under the natural lash line to remove extra fat and skin. They also redistribute fat in the area to remove under-eye grooves. By using the natural lines and contours of your eyelids, the surgeons can minimize obvious scarring.

How Much Does Upper Eyelid Surgery Cost in Long Island, NY?

The cost of upper eyelid surgery on Long Island varies based on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, whether one or both eyelids are treated, anesthesia requirements, and whether the surgery is combined with additional procedures. Because eyelid anatomy and goals differ from patient to patient, pricing is determined on an individual basis after consultation.

In some cases, upper eyelid surgery may be considered medically necessary if excess skin significantly impairs vision, which could allow for partial insurance coverage. The team at Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island is happy to guide patients through this process when applicable.

Why Choose Us?

At Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island, our esteemed triple-board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Sotirios Papafragkou, FACS, and Dr. Susie Ree, provide personalized care, natural-looking results, and a seamless treatment process for patients in Roslyn, Roslyn Heights, Garden City, Manhasset, and throughout Long Island.

Dr. P has mastered a broad array of surgical and non-surgical solutions to help patients attain the youthful, energized look they desire. He works with the latest cutting-edge techniques to minimize downtime while enhancing comfort and safety. Dr. Papafragkou is credentialed by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), and the Aesthetic Society (ASAPS) and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).

Dr. Susie Rhee, M.D., is a board-certified plastic surgeon serving patients throughout Long Island, NY. As a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), The Aesthetic Society, and the Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation (ASERF), Dr. Rhee is committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, education, and surgical excellence. She brings extensive experience in both cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, as well as in non-surgical skin rejuvenation treatments that deliver natural, long-lasting results.

Upper Eyelid Surgery FAQ’S

Patients can expect several appointments as part of their surgical journey. This includes an initial consultation, a pre-op visit, the day of surgery, and one or more postoperative follow-up visits to monitor healing and remove sutures if necessary. Follow-up care is critical to the process, allowing your surgeon to ensure proper healing and address any concerns promptly.
Initial improvements are visible once swelling begins to subside, often within the first one to two weeks. However, final results continue to refine over several months as the tissues fully heal and settle into their new contour. Patients often notice that their eyes appear brighter, more open, and well-rested, with scars fading discreetly into the natural eyelid crease over time. The results are long-lasting and age gracefully.
Yes, upper eyelid surgery is frequently combined with other facial procedures, which can include lower eyelid surgery, brow lift, facelift, or non-surgical treatments such as Botox or dermal fillers. During consultation, Dr. Papafragkou or Dr. Rhee evaluates whether combining procedures is appropriate based on anatomy, goals, and recovery considerations. When done thoughtfully, combination procedures can enhance overall facial harmony while minimizing total downtime.
As with any surgical procedure, upper eyelid surgery carries some risks, including swelling, bruising, infection, temporary dryness, or asymmetry. Rare complications may include changes in sensation or delayed healing. Choosing a highly trained, board-certified surgeon significantly reduces these risks, and as your surgeon thoroughly reviews all potential risks during consultation, patients can proceed with confidence and clarity.

Schedule a Consultation

Personalized Care from Two Dedicated Surgeons

If you are considering upper eyelid surgery and want expert guidance in a supportive environment, scheduling a consultation is the next step. The team at Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island welcomes patients from Roslyn, Roslyn Heights, Garden City, Manhasset, and surrounding areas. Appointments can be made by calling the office directly or using the convenient online booking tool.

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