An upper blepharoplasty is a specialized cosmetic procedure that
refreshes and rejuvenates the upper eyelids.
Double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Nicholas Karter performs upper blepharoplasty at our Wethersfield, Connecticut, practice to address sagging and heaviness in the upper eyelids for natural-looking, long-lasting results.
This patient was bothered by her neck and jawline. She received a deep plane facelift, deep neck sculpting, upper and lower blepharoplasty, and fat grafting.
We were able to sculpt the deeper structures in the neck and support the muscle along the jawline. We also opened up the area around the eyes and balanced with a little bit... Read More
This patient is only six weeks out from her deep plane facelift, deep neck lift, and upper blepharoplasty.
She is still so early in the healing process but we wanted to share her incredible results so far. By the six week post surgery mark, most patients should be looking pretty good. Certainly most patients would be ready to att... Read More
This patient is three months out from her deep plane facelift, deep neck sculpting, and upper and lower blepharoplasty.
She is a beautiful example of early intervention in facelifting. When to proceed with surgery is a personal choice, but for some patients they feel like they've never had the neck and jawline that fits them. Th... Read More
Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
What Is Upper Blepharoplasty?
Upper blepharoplasty, also known as upper eyelid surgery or an eyelid lift, is a facial cosmetic surgery that reshapes sagging eyelid skin. It addresses concerns such as hooded, drooping, or heavy upper eyelids, which cause an overly tired or aged appearance. In addition to helping you look more vibrant and alert, eyelid surgery can improve your field of vision and give you a more rejuvenated, youthful appearance.
Why Choose Upper Blepharoplasty?
Refreshed, natural-looking results – Upper eyelid surgery removes excess skin and fat, helping you look more energetic, cheerful, and rested without looking overdone.
Long-lasting rejuvenation – The results of upper blepharoplasty are long-lasting compared to temporary injectables and fillers.
Discreet incisions – Precise incisions are hidden in natural eyelid creases with virtually no visible scarring.
Enhanced vision and comfort – Besides cosmetic benefits, upper blepharoplasty can improve vision obstructed by drooping eyelids, enhancing your quality of life.
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Understanding How Aging Affects the Upper Eyelids
As we age, the delicate skin and underlying structures of the upper eyelids gradually change, leading to a tired or heavy-eyed appearance that makes you look older or more tired than you feel. While many assume these changes are solely due to surface-level skin laxity, the real causes extend deeper, involving structural and volume-related changes in the upper eyelids.
Some of the most common concerns patients notice as their eyes age include:
Eyelid hooding – Excess skin on the upper eyelids can create a heavy, tired look and may even begin to obstruct vision.
Loss of eyelid contour – Fat redistribution and skin laxity cause the upper eyelids to lose their natural definition, making the eyes appear smaller or sunken.
Drooping brow impact – The descent of the brow can further contribute to upper eyelid heaviness, exaggerating the appearance of excess skin.
Because these changes involve both skin and deeper support structures, nonsurgical treatments often provide only temporary improvement. Patients looking for long-lasting, natural-looking eyelid rejuvenation benefit most from upper blepharoplasty, which restores your youthful look by addressing the root causes of upper eyelid aging.
Meet Dr. Nicholas Karter
Dr. Karter is fellowship-trained, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon known for his exceptional results and patient-first philosophy. Learn what sets him apart below:
We perform your upper blepharoplasty in the office under local anesthesia, providing a safe, convenient, and comfortable way to achieve a more refreshed appearance. In addition to using a local anesthetic to numb the eyelid area, we offer a mild sedative for added relaxation and comfort.
Dr. Karter carefully places tiny incisions along the natural creases of the upper eyelids to ensure minimal scarring and optimal results. Through these discreet incisions, he:
Removes or repositions excess skin and fat to reduce sagging and puffiness.
Tightens underlying muscles, if necessary, to enhance eyelid definition and create longer-lasting results.
Once Dr. Karter makes the necessary refinements, he meticulously closes the incisions with fine sutures. His precise technique ensures the scars remain well hidden, blending into the eyelid contours for a smooth, rejuvenated look.
From Consultation to Confidence: Your Personalized Surgical Experience
From your first conversation with our team to your one-on-one time with Dr. Karter, we provide a concierge-level experience tailored to your needs.
Complimentary Phone Consultation
Start with a free one-on-one call with Erin, our patient care coordinator. She’ll listen to your concerns, discuss treatment options, and go over important details like technique, recovery, and cost considerations. If we feel like the right fit for you, she will schedule your in-person consultation with Dr. Karter.
Comprehensive In-Person Consultation
During your visit, Dr. Karter will examine your facial anatomy and explore your surgical options in-depth. He will walk you through the details of a deep plane facelift, discuss what to expect after surgery, and create a customized plan based on your goals.
Simple & Seamless Scheduling
When you are ready to move forward, we will coordinate every detail with the surgical center and anesthesia team. We recommend bringing your calendar to your appointment so you can choose your ideal date. A fully refundable 20% deposit is all that is needed to secure your surgery.
Presurgical Preparation & Support
We make sure that you are 100% prepared for your procedure. You will receive a comprehensive recovery kit with everything you need for postoperative care, have presurgical photos taken, and review all necessary consent forms and instructions.
Comprehensive Postoperative Care
We see patients several times throughout their recovery to ensure optimal healing and results. As part of our commitment to exceptional postsurgical care, we also provide laser resurfacing treatments to refine incision lines and support smoother scar healing.
Direct Access to Dr. Karter
Dr. Karter is personally invested in your experience and results. As part of his commitment to your comfort and well-being, he provides you with his personal cell phone number so you always have a direct line to your surgeon when you need it.
Your Upper Blepharoplasty Recovery
Our commitment to your care continues well beyond your procedure. Dr. Karter and his team take a proactive approach to healing, offering structured follow-ups and personalized support to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Minimal downtime – Most patients resume light activities within a few days and return to social engagements in about 10 to 14 days as swelling and bruising subside. Full results gradually emerge over the following weeks.
Comfortable healing – Upper blepharoplasty is a well-tolerated procedure. Most patients manage discomfort using Tylenol or ibuprofen alone. Any mild tightness or irritation typically resolves within the first week.
Comprehensive follow-up care – Dr. Karter closely monitors your healing to ensure your recovery stays on track and promptly addresses any concerns.
Concealed scarring – Dr. Karter carefully places incisions within the natural eyelid creases for discreet healing.
While you’ll notice a brighter, more refreshed look early on, final results are visible over the next 2 to 3 months as residual swelling resolves and your eyelids settle into their rejuvenated appearance.
A Reputation Built on Results
Dr. Karter is very personable, knowledgeable, friendly, and professional. Great experience with great results!
I had a great experience with Dr. Karter for my Botox treatment. I was very nervous but he made me feel completely at ease. He explained everything to me in great detail and even offered multiple products...
I don't even know where to begin. Dr. Karter along with Erin, the Patient Care Coordinator have changed my life. I have always been self conscious of my eyelids and under eyes for as long as I can remember....
Incredible Surgeon and Wonderful Experience
I highly recommend Dr. Karter. Not only is he an incredible surgeon but my experience with all his office staff has been wonderful.
I am just under 3 months...
While your eyelids are one of the earliest indicators of facial aging, the natural aging process still takes its toll on other features. Many patients explore a variety of complementary facial rejuvenation procedures to treat their face comprehensively, including:
At Karter Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery, procedure costs are always tailored to the individual. Once we understand your needs better, we can provide an initial quote during your free phone consultation. We also accept financing through CareCredit® and can help you plan for your investment in long-term facial rejuvenation.
Who’s a good candidate for upper blepharoplasty?
Ideal candidates for upper blepharoplasty typically have heavy, hooded eyelids, drooping eyelids (ptosis) due to hanging skin, or eyelid asymmetry. The best eyelid surgery candidates are nonsmokers in good overall health with realistic expectations about the procedure and recovery requirements.
Can you have the surgery performed in the surgery center instead of in-office?
Yes, we can accommodate this preference. You’re just responsible for any additional surgical facility fees shared with you during your consultation.
Can you have upper and lower blepharoplasty performed together?
Absolutely! This approach is common for patients who wish to address upper eyelid sagging and drooping as well as puffiness or bags under the eyes. Typically, combining upper and lower eyelid surgery doesn’t lengthen your recovery time.
Is an upper blepharoplasty painful?
No, the procedure is typically well-tolerated. Afterwards, you may feel some itching and tenderness, but icing the eyelid minimizes bruising and swelling and provides added comfort. For any additional discomfort, you can alternate Tylenol and ibuprofen.
Does upper blepharoplasty leave scars?
No, Dr. Karter carefully places your incisions in the natural crease of the eyelid. Once the scars have healed completely, it will be impossible to see them when your eyes are open. When your eyes are closed, they will fade and appear very similar to your natural eyelid creases.
How long does an eyelid lift last?
Blepharoplasty results can last 10 to 15 years or longer. However, you may eventually need a follow-up procedure, as the natural aging process may cause the skin around your eyes to gradually age and droop.
Request Your Complimentary Consultation
If you’re ready to explore your facial rejuvenation options with a top facial plastic surgeon in Connecticut, we invite you to request a consultation online or call Karter Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery at
(860) 775-5595 to get started today.
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