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. Dr. Karthik Shastri, a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon at KSMD Facial Plastic Surgery in Chicago, uses advanced techniques to create natural, beautiful results that leave you looking refreshed and rejuvenated. Let Dr. Shastri help you achieve the youthful, vibrant eyes you’ve been longing for.

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.

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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 Dr. Shastri at KSMD 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. In such cases, the procedure may be covered by insurance.

It’s essential to consult with Dr. Shastri to determine if blepharoplasty is appropriate for your specific situation.

Consultation and Assessment

What’s the first step?

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During your visit, Dr. Shastri 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. Dr. Shastri will take the time to ensure that you feel heard and confident about the surgical plan.

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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, Dr. Shastri carefully marks 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.
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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. If a patient has visual field obstruction related to sagging upper eyelid skin, insurance is typically able to cover a portion of the procedure. Visual field testing can be completed and submitted to insurance companies for authorization prior to the procedure.

It’s always best to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shastri to get an accurate estimate based on your specific needs and goals.

Why Choose KSMD Facial Plastic Surgery?

Dr. Karthik Shastri is a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon based in Chicago. He offers expert care in aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. A graduate of the University of Virginia and Drexel University Medical School, he completed his Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery residency at Albany Medical Center. During a prestigious fellowship at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Dr. Shastri honed his skills, specializing in facelifts, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, and skin cancer reconstruction.

As a member of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) and the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), Dr. Shastri is committed to providing natural, long-lasting results using the latest techniques. At KSMD Facial Plastic Surgery in Chicago, he focuses on delivering evidence-based care and personalized treatment for every patient.

Upper Eyelid Surgery FAQ’S

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Meet the Doctor

Schedule a Consultation

Schedule your consultation for upper eyelid surgery with Dr. Karthik Shastri today. Dr. Shastri’s expertise in facial plastic surgery ensures you’ll receive personalized care at every step. At KSMD Facial Plastic Surgery in Chicago, Dr. Shastri is 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.

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