Dr. Ali Totonchi is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with years of experience in eyelid rejuvenation. At his plastic surgery clinics in Cleveland, Westlake, and Lyndhurst, he offers upper and lower blepharoplasty to improve the appearance of sagging, puffy, or tired-looking eyelids.
Blepharoplasty can also improve peripheral vision in patients whose sagging upper eyelids obstruct their sight. Dr. Totonchi uses refined techniques that create smoother, more youthful eye contours with minimal downtime. Whether performed for cosmetic or functional reasons, eyelid surgery is customized to each patient’s facial structure and aesthetic goals.
Who Should Consider Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery is designed to improve the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. When performed with precision, blepharoplasty restores a more youthful appearance to the eye area, making you look more rested and alert. In some cases, the procedure can also alleviate visual obstruction.
Blepharoplasty may be right for you if you are experiencing:
- Loose or sagging upper eyelid skin that creates folds or impairs vision
- Puffiness in the upper eyelids due to fat deposits
- Under-eye bags or fine wrinkles in the lower eyelids
- Hollowing in the upper eyelids or tear troughs that may benefit from fat grafting
This procedure can be performed alone or in combination with a brow lift, facelift, CO2 laser, or fat transfer to achieve more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
How Does Eyelid Surgery Work?
Upper Blepharoplasty
When treating both upper and lower eyelids, Dr. Totonchi typically begins with the upper eyelid. Incisions are placed in the natural upper eyelid crease, allowing removal of excess skin and fat. Sutures are used to close the incision with minimal visibility.
Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower eyelid correction depends on the degree of skin laxity. Incisions may be made just below the lash line or inside the lower lid. Excess skin, muscle, and fat are removed or repositioned to reduce puffiness and hollowing. For patients with discoloration or skin laxity, CO2 laser resurfacing may be added to improve texture and tone.
If the upper eyelid droops close to the pupil, Dr. Totonchi may recommend ptosis screening and correction during your procedure.
Blepharoplasty Recovery
Blepharoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure in our Cleveland surgical office. The surgery takes approximately two hours, and patients are advised to have someone drive them home afterward.
Initial healing may involve swelling, bruising, dryness, or irritation—manageable with medication, cold compresses, and ointments. Patients should wear sunglasses outdoors and avoid sun exposure during early recovery, which typically lasts one to two weeks.
Blepharoplasty Results
Visible improvements will appear as swelling subsides in the first few weeks. Incision lines continue to refine and fade over the following months. Final results reveal smoother, more youthful-looking eyelids with better definition. With proper skincare and sun protection, results can last 10 years or more.
Why Choose Dr. Totonchi for Eyelid Surgery?
Dr. Totonchi brings expertise in facial plastic surgery to every procedure. With a specialized focus on delicate eyelid anatomy and facial balance, he tailors each blepharoplasty to complement your natural features. His commitment to precision and safety, combined with his approachable manner and multi-location practice, makes him a top choice for patients across Northeast Ohio.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about upper or lower blepharoplasty, or to determine whether the procedure is right for you, contact (216) 778-2262 for Dr. Totonchi’s Cleveland and Westlake offices, or 440-461-7999 for Dr. Totonchi’s Lyndhurst practice. Dr. Totonchi welcomes patients from Cleveland, Westlake, Lyndhurst, and nearby communities.
Blepharoplasty FAQs
Can blepharoplasty be combined with other procedures?
Absolutely. Eyelid surgery is often combined with:
- Brow lift to elevate drooping brows and open the upper face
- Mini or full facelift to lift the lower face and enhance overall harmony
- CO2 laser resurfacing for smoother, brighter skin
Combining treatments allows for more balanced rejuvenation and can be completed in a single surgical session with one recovery period.
Can eyelid surgery be medically necessary?
Yes—when drooping upper eyelids interfere with your field of vision, blepharoplasty may be considered a medically necessary procedure. In these cases, a visual field test can determine if your peripheral vision is impaired enough to warrant insurance coverage. Dr. Totonchi can evaluate your condition during consultation and assist with documentation if a functional blepharoplasty is recommended.
Will there be visible scarring after eyelid surgery?
Dr. Totonchi places incisions in natural eyelid creases or inside the lower eyelid, making scars very discreet. In most cases, the incision lines soften and fade within a few months, becoming nearly invisible. Patients are encouraged to avoid sun exposure and follow post-operative instructions to support optimal healing.
Is eyelid surgery painful?
Blepharoplasty is not typically painful. Patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or tightness in the first few days after surgery, but this is usually easily managed with prescribed medications and cold compresses. Most patients describe the recovery as relatively easy.
Can men get eyelid surgery too?
Yes. Blepharoplasty is a popular procedure among men who want to reduce puffiness, sagging, or heaviness around the eyes without looking overdone. Dr. Totonchi customizes his technique to preserve masculine features and ensure natural-looking results for male patients.
What is the best age to consider eyelid surgery?
Most blepharoplasty patients are in their 40s to 60s, though some younger individuals with hereditary puffiness or hooding may be good candidates earlier. The decision is based more on anatomy and symptoms than age alone. Dr. Totonchi can evaluate your specific concerns during a consultation.
