Introduction to External Eyelid Blepharoplasty

External eyelid blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery or an eyelid lift, is a transformative procedure that has gained significant popularity in recent years. In the United States, it has risen to among the top five plastic surgery procedures performed on both men and women. In 2025, the demand for this surgery continues to grow as more people seek to rejuvenate the appearance of their eyes. According to data, in just one year, over 175,000 cases were performed in the United States alone. This procedure addresses both problems of aging around the eyelids and issues faced by younger patients, such as dark circles or puffy eyelids, which are often inherited.

Benefits of External Eyelid Blepharoplasty

1. Enhanced Appearance: One of the primary benefits is the improvement in the overall appearance of the eyes. It can make a person look more alert, refreshed, and younger by removing excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids.
2. Improved Vision: In some cases, sagging eyelids can obstruct peripheral vision. Blepharoplasty can help to restore better peripheral vision by removing the excess skin that is causing the obstruction.
3. Long - lasting Results: While natural aging continues, the outcomes of blepharoplasty often last for many years, making it a worthwhile investment in one's appearance.

Types of Blepharoplasty Procedures

• Upper Eyelid Surgery: Incisions are made within the natural creases of the upper eyelid to hide scars. This procedure addresses loose or sagging skin on the upper lids, lifts the eyelid to reveal more of the pupil, enhances vision, and creates a more alert, refreshed appearance. It also addresses excess fat and puffiness around the eye, resulting in a smoother contour.
• Lower Eyelid Surgery: Incisions can be made below the lash line or placed inside the eyelid for minimal visibility. It targets under - eye bags, excess skin, and puffiness, helps to achieve a refreshed, youthful look, smooths and minimizes fine wrinkles under the eyes, tightens the lower eyelid to enhance the eye’s shape and overall facial balance, and may help reduce the appearance of dark circles for a brighter, more awake look.
• Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty: Ideal for younger patients to those in their early forties who have inherited a family tendency for puffy upper and lower eyelids. In this procedure, the incision is made inside the eyelid, avoiding any type of scar. The periorbital fat is then carefully and conservatively teased out of the lower eyelid. If a small amount of skin must be tightened, a laser peel or “skin pinch” may be performed simultaneously.
• Asian (Double) Eyelid Surgery: Creates a defined upper eyelid crease for those seeking a double eyelid appearance.

Top Hospitals for External Eyelid Blepharoplasty in New York City

Criteria for Ranking

When determining the top hospitals for external eyelid blepharoplasty in New York City, several factors are considered. These include the experience and expertise of the surgeons, the quality of the surgical facilities, patient reviews and satisfaction rates, the range of available procedures, and the hospital's reputation in the field of plastic surgery.

Top Three Hospitals

1. Hospital with Dr. John E. Sherman

Dr. John E. Sherman is a board - certified plastic surgeon with over 40 years of experience in the field. He specializes in facial rejuvenation and has provided numerous patients in New York with beautiful results from their blepharoplasty. Dr. Sherman offers both upper - eyelid surgery and lower - eyelid surgery. He has routinely performed transconjunctival blepharoplasty operations over the past 30 years and was featured in an article in Elle magazine about this procedure. His patients often praise his caring and professional approach, as well as the virtually painless experience and excellent results. Before the surgery, he meticulously examines the patient's eyelids to determine the most suitable procedure. Patients are also provided with detailed instructions for preparation, including discontinuing blood thinners, avoiding nicotine, filling prescriptions, arranging transportation, and allowing ample rest time. The surgery is usually performed under intravenous sedation anesthesia supplemented with local anesthesia, and patients are continuously monitored by a board - certified anesthesiologist. Recovery is relatively comfortable, with minimal discomfort and swelling usually lasting up to three weeks, and final results obtained in two months.

2. Hospital with Dr. Philipp Franck

Dr. Philipp Franck, a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, completed his training at two prestigious Ivy League university hospitals. He is an expert in facial plastic surgery, including advanced blepharoplasty. Named one of New York’s rising star surgeons by the New York Times Magazine since 2023, and serving as a clinical assistant professor at Cornell University Hospital in New York, his dedication to patient - centered care and consistently excellent surgical outcomes have earned him a place in Castle Connolly’s list of top doctors nationwide. During the consultation process, he assesses the patient's eyelids, reviews their medical history, and explains the procedure in detail. He offers personalized treatment plans based on the patient's unique needs and goals. The surgery is performed with meticulous precision, and the incisions are placed in strategic locations to minimize scarring. After the surgery, patients are given comprehensive post - operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Many patients choose to combine blepharoplasty with other procedures, such as brow lift or facelift, under his guidance for a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

3. Hospital with Dr. Darrick Antell

Dr. Darrick Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon who is board certified in plastic surgery, emphasizing aesthetic cosmetic surgery. He performs blepharoplasties in his accredited state - of - the - art surgical facility in New York. His goal with the blepharoplasty procedure is to brighten the face and restore a more youthful appearance, and in some cases, improve vision. The surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia and light intravenous sedation on an outpatient basis. The length of the procedure depends on the patient's cosmetic expectations and goals. Dr. Antell carefully makes the incisions along the natural folds of the eyelids to ensure minimal scarring. He also educates patients about the potential risks involved in the surgery, although complications are infrequent and minor when performed by a competent plastic surgeon. Post - operatively, he provides detailed recovery instructions, and patients are advised to follow a specific regimen to ensure a proper and smooth recovery.

Top Five Hospitals

4. Hospital with Dr. Adam R. Kolker

Dr. Adam R. Kolker brings vast experience, technical finesse, meticulous attention to detail, and artistry to the field of eyelid rejuvenation. He offers a variety of techniques for blepharoplasty, including non - surgical lower eyelid rejuvenation, laser resurfacing, skin - pinch blepharoplasty, transconjunctival blepharoplasty, fat grafts for tear trough and volume loss, and lower eyelid fat repositioning. His approach is centered around maintaining the natural shape and "personality" of the eyes while achieving a more youthful and beautiful appearance. From the initial consultation to the recovery and follow - up process, patients experience thoroughness, attention to detail, and warmth from Dr. Kolker and his team. He tailors the treatment plan to each patient's specific physical attributes and desires, ensuring the best possible results.

5. Hospital with Dr. George Lefkovits

Dr. George Lefkovits performs eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) in a state - of - the - art, fully equipped surgicenter in New York. He removes excess skin and fat from both the upper and lower lids during the procedure, and if desired, can relocate fat from the lower eyelids or elsewhere to address hollowness under the eyes. The incisions are well - hidden, with the upper lid incision in the upper eyelid crease and the lower lid incision either just below the lashes or on the inside of the eyelid. He also offers complementary procedures such as Botox® cosmetic injections, forehead lift, and laser resurfacing to enhance the results of the blepharoplasty. After the surgery, he provides detailed recovery instructions, and patients are usually advised to take several days off from work until the stitches are removed. He emphasizes the importance of taking care of the eyes during the recovery period, including protecting them from sun exposure.

Preparing for External Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Medical Evaluation

Before undergoing blepharoplasty, patients should undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation. This includes a review of their medical history, including any existing eye conditions, medications, or previous surgeries. An ophthalmologist may need to provide clearance, especially for individuals with conditions like glaucoma, dry eye syndrome, or other ocular issues that could affect the outcome of the procedure. The surgeon will also assess the patient's general health to ensure they are suitable candidates for the surgery. For example, patients with thyroid disease, high blood pressure, or those who do not produce sufficient tears may have an increased risk of complications.

Lifestyle Changes

• Medication Management: As instructed by the surgeon, patients should discontinue any blood thinners, supplements, and medications that may interfere with the surgery or recovery process. This is crucial to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding during and after the procedure.
• Nicotine - free Environment: Smoking or using nicotine products can impair healing and increase the risk of complications. Patients are advised to stop using nicotine products in the weeks leading up to the surgery and remain nicotine - free throughout the recovery period.
• Rest and Relaxation: It is essential to arrange time off from work and social commitments to allow for a speedy recovery. Giving the body adequate time to rest and heal will support the best possible outcome.

Emotional Preparation

Undergoing any surgical procedure can be a stressful experience. Patients should prepare themselves emotionally for the surgery and the recovery process. It is important to have realistic expectations about the results and understand that the final outcome may take some time to fully manifest. Patients can talk to their friends, family, or the surgical team about their concerns and anxieties to gain support and reassurance.

The Blepharoplasty Procedure

Anesthesia

Upper blepharoplasty or lower blepharoplasty is almost always performed under intravenous sedation anesthesia, supplemented with local anesthesia. In some cases, depending on the patient's needs and comfort levels, general anesthesia may be used for lower blepharoplasty as it tends to be a more complex procedure. A board - certified anesthesiologist is always present to continuously monitor the patient during the surgery to ensure their safety and comfort.

Step - by - Step Process

1. Preparation and Marking: The surgeon carefully marks the areas around the eyelids to determine how much skin or fat should be removed. This step is crucial to ensure precise and accurate results.
2. Incision Placement:
   • For upper eyelid surgery, incisions are made within the natural creases of the upper eyelid to hide scars.
   • For lower eyelid surgery, incisions may be placed either just below the lash line or inside the lower lid (transconjunctival approach).
3. Tissue Removal or Repositioning: Excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle are removed or repositioned to create a more youthful contour. The surgeon takes great care to ensure that the natural shape and balance of the eyes are maintained.
4. Closing the Incisions: The surgeon uses very fine sutures to minimize scarring. Stitches are typically removed within a few days, and the incisions are then allowed to heal.

Recovery After External Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Immediate Post - operative Period

After the surgery, the patient is transferred to the recovery room and will be discharged from the clinic approximately one hour after the procedure. They are usually advised to have a trusted companion to take them home. The main requirement immediately after discharge is to maintain an ice compress on the eyelids for several hours to reduce bruising. Patients may experience mild swelling, bruising, or irritation in the first few days.

First Week

During the first week, patients should continue to use cold compresses and keep their head elevated to further reduce swelling. Sutures are usually removed within 5 - 7 days. Many people resume light activities within a week or two, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few weeks. Patients may feel self - conscious about their appearance during this time, but most of the bruising will start to fade within 10 days.

Long - term Recovery

Swelling usually lasts up to three weeks, and the final eyelid result is obtained in two months. As the swelling diminishes, patients will start to see the refreshed, youthful appearance of their eyes. Full healing can take a few months, but changes are noticeable much sooner. It is important to follow the surgeon's post - operative instructions carefully, including using any prescribed eye drops, avoiding sun exposure to the eyes, and attending follow - up appointments.

Potential Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, external eyelid blepharoplasty carries certain risks and potential complications. However, these occurrences are very rare, and most patients experience a smooth healing process. Some of the possible risks include:

• Infection or Bleeding: Though uncommon, proper wound care and following post - operative instructions help minimize this risk. The surgical team will provide detailed instructions on how to care for the incisions to prevent infection.
• Dryness or Irritation: Eyes may feel dry or irritated following surgery. Prescribed eye drops usually alleviate this symptom, and patients are advised to use them regularly as directed.
• Temporary Changes in Vision: Blurred or double vision can occur but typically resolves on its own. If this persists for an extended period, patients should contact their surgeon immediately.
• Scarring: While scars are usually discreet and well - concealed, some individuals may experience more visible scarring. The surgeon will take precautions to minimize scarring during the procedure, and patients can follow after - care instructions to promote proper healing of the incisions.

Conclusion

External eyelid blepharoplasty is a popular and effective procedure for rejuvenating the appearance of the eyes and improving overall facial aesthetics. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals and experienced surgeons who can provide high - quality care and excellent results. By understanding the procedure, preparing properly, and following the surgeon's instructions during the recovery period, patients can achieve the desired outcome and enhance their self - confidence. Whether you are looking to address signs of aging around the eyes or correct congenital issues, blepharoplasty can be a life - changing decision.

If you are considering external eyelid blepharoplasty, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top surgeons in New York City. Take the time to discuss your concerns and goals, and ask any questions you may have. This will help you make an informed decision and embark on a journey towards a more youthful and refreshed appearance.