Upper Eyelid Lift

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Englewood and Denver, CO

An upper eyelid lift is a surgical procedure that rejuvenates the upper eyelids by removing/repositioning excess skin and fat. (1)

The eyes are one of the most expressive and captivating features of the face, but over time, sagging upper eyelids can make a person appear tired, sad, or older than they are. Excess skin on the upper eyelids may droop over the lash line and even interfere with vision. An upper eyelid lift, or upper blepharoplasty, is a precise and transformative surgical procedure that restores a refreshed, open, and naturally youthful appearance to the eyes.

Under the leadership of Dr. Mario Imola and Dr. David Kowalczyk, the team at Colorado Facial Plastic Surgery has become a premier destination in Colorado for facial plastic and reconstructive procedures that enhance harmony and restore balance. As double board-certified surgeons, they approach each eyelid lift with artistry, precision, and a deep understanding of facial anatomy.

If you are ready to rejuvenate your eyes and restore a refreshed appearance, contact Colorado Facial Plastic Surgery online or call (303) 839-7980 to schedule your consultation.

Before and After Photos

Blepharoplasty Before & After Patient #2207
Blepharoplasty Before & After Patient #2207
Blepharoplasty Before & After Patient #2205
Blepharoplasty Before & After Patient #2205
Blepharoplasty Before & After Patient #2206
Blepharoplasty Before & After Patient #2206
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About Upper Eyelid Lifts

An upper eyelid lift, also known as upper blepharoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess skin, muscle, and fat from the upper eyelids. As skin elasticity naturally decreases with age, the delicate tissues surrounding the eyes begin to sag. This can obscure the natural contours of the upper eyelid, making the eyes appear smaller or tired. The goal of upper blepharoplasty is to correct these effects by smoothing the upper eyelid area while preserving natural eye shape and symmetry.

Benefits

Under the expert care of Dr. Imola and Dr. Kowalczyk, our patients experience benefits such as:

  • Natural-looking rejuvenation that enhances the overall balance of the face
  • Improved vision if excess skin previously obstructed the eyelids
  • A brighter, more youthful appearance around the eyes
  • Minimal visible scarring thanks to discreet incision placement
  • Long-lasting results that age gracefully with the rest of the face

Ideal Candidates

An upper eyelid lift may be ideal for individuals who are beginning to notice heaviness, puffiness, or sagging skin around the eyes. This procedure benefits a wide range of patients seeking to refresh their appearance while maintaining natural facial harmony. Ideal candidates often include:

  • Those with drooping upper eyelids that create a tired appearance
  • Individuals whose excess eyelid skin interferes with vision
  • Patients who have noticed puffiness or excess fat deposits around the eyes
  • Adults in good overall health who do not smoke or are willing to stop temporarily
  • People with realistic expectations and a desire for subtle, natural-looking improvement

Personal Consultation

Your journey to rejuvenated eyes will begin with a personal consultation at Colorado Facial Plastic Surgery. During this appointment, Dr. Imola or Dr. Kowalczyk will listen carefully to your concerns and desired outcomes. They will evaluate your eyelid anatomy, muscle tone, and skin condition to determine the most effective surgical plan.

You will have the opportunity to ask questions, review before-and-after photos of previous patients, and learn about the expected recovery process. The consultation also allows your surgeon to assess whether you would benefit from additional procedures, such as a brow lift or lower eyelid surgery, to enhance your overall facial balance. Dr. Imola and Dr. Kowalczyk personalize each eyelid lift to a patient’s unique concerns. Whether your goal is purely aesthetic or also functional, your surgeon will create a fully customized treatment plan that delivers subtle, elegant, and long-lasting results that suit your facial structure.

If you are ready to plan your upper eyelid lift, contact Colorado Facial Plastic Surgery online or call (303) 839-7980 to schedule this consultation.

Preparation

Preparing for your upper eyelid lift will involve several important steps to ensure your safety and the best possible outcome. Before your procedure, Dr. Imola or Dr. Kowalczyk will review your medical history, current medications, and any previous eye conditions. They may ask you to stop using medications or supplements that can increase bleeding risk, such as aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, certain herbal remedies, and others.

In the days leading up to surgery, patients must avoid alcohol, nicotine, and excessive sun exposure, all of which can affect the healing process. You should also plan for someone to drive you to and from your appointment and stay with you during your initial recovery. Our staff will provide complete preoperative instructions, including how to care for your skin, what to bring on the day of your procedure, and how to set up a comfortable recovery area at home. These small steps will help ensure a smooth surgical experience and optimal results.

Procedure

Dr. Imola and Dr. Kowalczyk perform upper eyelid lifts with the patient under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on comfort level and the extent of correction. Once you are comfortable, your surgeon will begin by marking the natural crease of your upper eyelid to guide precise incisions. Through these incisions, they will carefully remove excess skin and adjust small amounts of fat or muscle to restore smoothness and definition. Your surgeon will then carefully close the incisions with fine sutures to minimize scarring.

The entire procedure usually takes about one to two hours, depending on whether your surgeon performs it alone or in combination with other treatments. Throughout the process, Dr. Imola and Dr. Kowalczyk maintain a strong focus on symmetry, proportion, and subtlety. Their goal is not to change the character of your eyes but to refresh and highlight your natural expression. Patients often describe the final result as looking like themselves, only more rested and revitalized.

Recovery

Recovery following an upper eyelid lift is generally straightforward, with minimal discomfort and manageable downtime. Patients can expect mild swelling or bruising around the eyes for the first 7-14 days, which they can reduce with cold compresses and elevating the head. Dr. Imola and Dr. Kowalczyk usually remove sutures within a week.

Most patients can return to normal activities within seven to ten days, though they must avoid strenuous exercise for at least two weeks. You may notice your eyelids feeling slightly tight as the tissues heal, but this sensation will gradually fade. Patients can wear makeup and contact lenses after gaining approval. As your recovery continues, you will notice your eyes appearing more open, alert, and youthful. Scars will remain hidden within the eyelid crease and continue to fade over the following months. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon will help ensure your healing stays on track and your results remain consistent.

Results

The results of upper eyelid lift surgery are both immediate and long-lasting. Once initial swelling subsides, most patients notice smoother eyelid contours and an overall brighter, more awake appearance. These improvements can last for several years, especially when patients maintain a healthy lifestyle and protect their skin from excessive sun exposure. (2)

Unlike temporary treatments that require regular maintenance, an upper blepharoplasty offers a lasting rejuvenation that blends seamlessly with the rest of your facial features. Most patients experience renewed confidence as they enjoy a rested, youthful appearance that reflects how they truly feel. Dr. Imola and Dr. Kowalczyk take pride in achieving results that are natural, elegant, and harmonious, enhancing not only the eyes but the entire face.

Corresponding Procedures

Patients who undergo upper eyelid lift surgery often choose to complement their results with other facial rejuvenation procedures for a more complete transformation, including:

  • Lower Eyelid Lift: Addresses under-eye bags and puffiness to create a smoother, firmer lower eyelid contour.
  • Forehead Lift: Elevates sagging brows and softens forehead creases, creating a more open and balanced look when performed alongside upper blepharoplasty.
  • Facelift: Restores definition to the midface and jawline, harmonizing the refreshed eye area with the rest of the face.

Cost of Upper Eyelid Lift in Denver, CO

The cost of upper eyelid lift surgery varies based on the complexity of the procedure and whether your surgeon performs additional facial rejuvenation treatments at the same time. During your consultation, our staff will provide a personalized quote that reflects your specific treatment plan. Colorado Facial Plastic Surgery also offers financing options for qualifying patients who wish to divide the cost of their treatment into manageable payments.

Schedule your consultation today to explore your upper eyelid lift treatment options. If you have any questions or prefer to schedule over the phone, please call our Englewood office directly at (303) 839-7980.

FAQ

How long do the results of an upper eyelid lift last?

The results of upper blepharoplasty typically last ten years or longer. While the aging process continues naturally, the improvement in eyelid contour and smoothness is long-lasting.

Will I have visible scars after an upper eyelid lift?

No, Dr. Imola and Dr. Kowalczyk place incisions within the natural crease of the eyelid, leaving scars that are virtually invisible once healing is complete.

Can an upper eyelid lift improve my vision?

Yes, in cases where excess skin droops over the eyelashes or obstructs the line of sight, removing this skin can significantly improve peripheral vision.

How soon can I return to work after an upper eyelid lift?

Most patients feel comfortable returning to work within seven to ten days, depending on individual healing speed and job type.

Is an upper eyelid lift painful?

We administer anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure. During your recovery, you may experience slight discomfort, but you can manage it with prescribed medication during the first few days. Most patients describe the recovery as comfortable.

Can I combine an upper eyelid lift with other procedures?

Yes, many patients combine blepharoplasty with treatments such as a brow lift, lower eyelid lift, or facial fat transfer for comprehensive rejuvenation.

References

  1. Patel BC, Malhotra R. Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty. PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537078/
  2. Vasović DD, Karamarković MLj, Jovanović M, et al. Comprehensive Evaluation of Quality of Life following Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty: A Prospective Analysis. Medicina. 2024;60(3):500. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60030500