EYE LIFT
Considering an eye lift?
Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a common procedure that has been gaining a lot of momentum in the past few years. This is likely fueled by the fact that many patients note their first signs of aging around the eyes. The average eye blinks about 28,000 times per day which makes it an area of repetitive motion which likely contributes to many of the changes we note with aging. In the upper lid we typically tend to notice excess skin and a build up of fat in the portion of the eyelid closest to the root of the nose. In the lower eyelid there is often a build up of excess fat primarily and sometimes excess skin. In addition, a harsh transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek dan form that we refer to as a tear trough deformity. This leads to a more tired appearance and therefore the goal for lower eyelid blepharoplasty is to create a smooth transition between the cheek and lower eyelid.
Am I a good candidate for an eyelid lift?
As the saying goes, “age is but a number” and facial aging is no different. There are many factors involved with how your face ages, both your genetics and environmental exposures play a crucial role. Many patients notice their first signs aging around their eyes. Therefore, there is no particular age that one should wait before considering a blepharoplasty. The procedure is effective for anyone who feels as though they have excess fullness and/or skin laxity around their eyes. We blink 30,000 times per day, which contributes to why we notice changes around the eye with aging before ay other area. This repetitive motion creates excess skin around the eye from its constant use but can also cause excess fat that deposits in the eyelids, causing a fullness that are often referred to as “bags.”
Natural looking blepharoplasty results
The lower lid blepharoplasty is typically performed using general anesthesia at our surgical facility while upper eyelid blepharoplasty is one of the few procedures that can be performed under local anesthesia directly in the clinic. Incisions are generally very well concealed in both the upper and lower eyelid due to the great healing properties of your eyelid skin. It is also important to remember that the different areas of the face, such as the eyes, cheeks, and neck will all eventually age together and should “match” each other. It is, therefore, typically advisable to surgically correct more than one area of the face for a natural look that maintains “facial harmony”. Since most of our interactions begins with making eye contact, rejuvenation of the eyes play an important role in turning back the clock and getting the refreshed but natural look most are hoping to achieve.
UCLA EYELID lift consultation
Coming in for a consultation with Dr. Roostaeian is the best way to determine whether rhinoplasty surgery is right for you.
During your meeting, you’ll have the chance to explain your concerns and ask as many questions as you need, without being rushed or feeling obligated to book a procedure. Dr. Roostaeian prefers to listen and get to know patients first, which helps him guide you to a solution that works best for you. Together, you’ll discuss the look you’re trying to achieve, and you’ll be able to view standardized before and after photos of Dr. Jason’s previous results that are similar to your aesthetic goals.
All consultation fees may be credited to any subsequent service performed by Dr. Jason. To book a consultation, please complete the form and we will contact you within two business days.
Alternatively, you may call 310.825.8827 to speak with Lili to make an appointment.
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Dr. Jason and our staff at the UCLA Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Suite are ready to get you started on your journey. Whether to answer questions, schedule a consultation, or simply to listen, we're ready when you are.

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Everything you need to know about eye lift surgery
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
PREPARING FOR EYELID LIFT SURGERY
During your consultation, Dr. Roostaeian will listen to your goals, answer any questions, and help you determine the best treatment plan for you. If you decide to reserve a date for your eyelid lift, Dr. Jason’s surgery coordinator, Lili, will also schedule you a pre-op appointment to take place about a week or two prior to your surgery.
As with any surgical procedure, you must be physically and mentally fit for nose job surgery. To ensure patient safety, Dr. Jason only operates on patients who have achieved facial maturity, do not smoke, and who have received anesthesia clearance by their primary physician.
Am I a good candidate for an eye lift?
There are many factors involved with how your face ages, both your genetics and environmental exposures play a crucial role. Many patients notice their first signs aging around their eyes. Therefore, there is no particular age that one should wait before considering a browlift. The procedure is effective for anyone who feels as though they have excess fullness and/or skin laxity around their eyes, or those who feel they have eye “bags.”
In addition, Dr. Jason will only perform a brow lift on patients who meet the following criteria:
- Are in good health
- Do not smoke
- Are able to avoid any blood-thinning medications for several weeks
- Have been cleared for surgery by a primary care physician
- Have reasonable expectations and aesthetic goals
What are the different types of eye lifts?
For the upper eyelid, an incision along the upper eyelid crease is made to conceal the scar and remove and excess skin or fat. If a crease is not present, which can be common among asian patients, than a crease can be created, when desired. Now for the lower eyelid, an individualized approach is taken typically to address any or all of the following three components: 1) excess skin, 2) excess fat (eyelid bags), 3) a harsh transition between the lower eye lid and cheek that we refer to aa the “tear-trough.” Scarring is generally very well concealed with all the above techniques. Each of the approaches have advantages and disadvantages. During your consultation with Dr Jason, he will go over which technique best suits your particular needs.
How do I find the best blepharoplasty surgeon?
When searching for the best eye lift surgeon to perform your eyelid lift, Dr. Roostaeian advises you to consider several key factors:
- Credentials and Certifications: Research your prospective blepharoplasty surgeon online – not just on their website, but on industry credentialing sites such as www.surgery.org, which lists board certified plastic surgeons. Do not choose a cosmetic surgeon who is a member of the ABCS – they do not receive the extensive training and oversight that plastic surgeons do. Look for plastic/cosmetic surgeons like Dr. Roostaeian, who are ABPS and ASAPS members.
- Before and After Photos: The doctor you choose to perform your eye lift should be happy to show you an extensive array of standardized before and after photographs. Scrutinize them carefully, making sure the lighting is consistent and the various views are shown with detail. View enough eye lift pictures to determine whether or not the work is of high quality, with an aesthetic that matches your personal goals. Dr. Jason strives to provide patients with the highest quality of standardized eyelid lift photographs so you can feel confident in your choice. Click here to view Dr. Jason’s gallery of before and after blepharoplasty photos. [LINK]
- Office and Surgery Facility: Before choosing an aesthetic surgeon to perform your eye lift surgery, closely evaluate the office staff, as well as the surgery facility. All of the staff should be helpful and friendly, and pleased to provide you with detailed information about their operating rooms and equipment. Dr. Jason and his staff are proud to be affiliated with UCLA, world renowned for state-of-the-art surgical facilities and patient care. Click to learn more about our top-ranked hospital.[LINK]
- Personal Connection: Seeing eye to eye with your eyelid lift surgeon is just as important as assessing their operating skills. Plastic surgery is a very personal endeavor, and Dr. Jason strongly believes in creating a connection with all of his patients prior to heading into the OR.
Click to read Dr. Jason’s blog post How to Find the Best Plastic Surgeon.
How much does an eye lift cost?
Eye lift costs vary considerably from patient to patient. The exact cost of eyelid lift surgery will depend on the complexity of your procedure, and you will receive a written quote following your consultation.
Can I combine an eye lift with other procedures?
It is possible to have multiple procedures done at the same time. For instance, including a facelift and/or brow lift procedure with an eye lift is very common. However, it is important to keep the planned operating time to less than 6-8 hours in order to optimize your safety. Increased operative times have been shown to increase the risk for complications such as infections and risk for deep vein clots that can lead to pulmonary emboli.
How do I prepare for eye lift surgery?
When preparing for a eyelid lift procedure, follow all instructions issued by Dr. Roostaeian, his office, and the staff at the UCLA Surgery Center. These guidelines include, but are not limited to:
THREE WEEKS PRIOR TO SURGERY
- Avoid smoking cigarettes, wearing a nicotine patch or using nicotine gum three weeks prior and three weeks after surgery. All nicotine products inhibits circulation and slows your healing process.
TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO SURGERY
- Do not take aspirin or any aspirin products. These medications cause bleeding which can lead to
complications. You may only use Tylenol. - If you are using Retin-A, discontinue use two weeks prior to surgery date. Do not recieve a dermabrasion, chemical peel, or laser, within five days prior to your surgery date.
- Do not take Vitamin E (it will cause you to bleed).
- Do not cut your hair (even your bangs) two weeks prior to surgery. Longer hair helps hide fresh incisions. Also, longer hair is easier to manage in surgery (we braid it to keep it out of the way).
- Do not color, perm, or chemically treat your hair during the 2-week period before and after surgery. Failure to do so may result in hair breakage and hair loss.
- Make arrangements for someone to drive you home after the doctor sees you the day following surgery.
- It is extremely important that we are informed about any medications or supplements that you are currently taking such as diet pills, mega doses of vitamins, prescriptions for depression, etc., Dr.Roostaeian and your anesthesiologist need to know every medication that is in your system.
DAY BEFORE/DAY OF BROW LIFT SURGERY
- Shampoo your hair and body with an antiseptic soap the night before surgery. We prefer you to use Hibiclens (sold at most drug stores) to wash your hair, face, and body (avoid the eyes) the night before and/or morning of surgery.
- Do not eat or drink anything (not even water) after midnight. The morning of surgery you may take your regular medications such as blood pressure, heart, thyroid, etc. with a small sip of water.
- Leave all your jewelry at home, including any body (pierced) jewelry. Do not wear contact lenses- not even extended wear. Remove all makeup. Do not apply lotion or creams. Bring a robe, gown (one that will slip easily over your head or one that buttons up the front) and slippers.
- DO NOT “WORKOUT” THE DAY BEFORE OR THE MORNING OF SURGERY. This will dehydrate your body and you will not be able to replenish it with water.
Is there a brow lift surgery shopping list?
Before having brow lift surgery, Dr. Jason Roostaeian recommends patients purchase these items:
- Button-up pajamas – to avoid pulling any clothes over your scalp and face after surgery.
- Witch Hazel – Use to clean incisions in the hair to avoid bleaching.
- Zip Lock bags to put ice water and keep brow area cool for swelling..
- Foods with Very Low Salt- you want to really minimize salt, ideally to less than 1-2 grams per day, as this will help reduce your swelling. You want to maintain the low salt diet for at least 6 weeks and ideally for 3-6 months.
undergoing BLEPHAROPLASTY surgery
When you arrive for your nose job surgery, the UCLA Surgery Center nurses will prepare you for your operation. Dr. Roostaeian will stop in to answer any remaining questions you may have, and to make surgical markings for the OR.
Once you have received the anesthesia and are comfortably sleeping, Dr. Jason will perform the rhinoplasty as discussed during your previous meetings – either an open or closed procedure. He generally begins by addressing any dorsal concerns, followed by the nasal tip and finally, any nostril adjustments that need to be made.
Dr. Jason will explain to you during your consultation that sometimes, a surgical plan may need to be slightly amended depending upon what is revealed in the operating room. He will make adjustments as needed in order to achieve the results that you’ve agreed upon.
Will I have local or general anesthesia during my eye lift surgery?
Typically, Dr. Roostaeian performs eye lift surgery using local anesthesia. If performed in conjunction with another procedure, general anesthesia is typical. During your pre-operative appointment, Dr. Jason will review your options and help you decide on an whether to use local vs general anesthesia to best suit your needs.
Is a blepharoplasty an outpatient procedure?
After your eye lift surgery, most patients will not need to stay overnight in the hospital. Typically, blepharoplasty surgery with Dr. Jason Roostaeian is outpatient surgery, which means that once you’re cleared by the UCLA Surgery Center recovery team (usually after a few hours), you may go home or to your aftercare location.
However, patients who have undergone a facelift in conjunction with their procedure are required to stay overnight. Dr. Jason and the nurses at the UCLA Surgery Center will monitor your progress and make sure you have the highest standard of care.
How long does eye lift surgery take?
Although each case is unique, eye lift surgery with Dr. Roostaeian takes about 1 – 2 hours. If you are having multiple procedures, your surgery time will vary. Prior to your surgery, Dr. Jason will let you know the approximate duration.
Can I combine an eyelid lift with other procedures?
Yes, it is actually quite common for Dr. Jason Roostaeian to combine an eye lift with other procedures. These most commonly include an brow lift as well as a facelift and neck lift.
Patients who opt for a facelift in conjunction with an eye lift will stay overnight for monitoring at the world-class UCLA Surgery Center.
What are the main eye lift surgery risks?
Serious complications following eye lift surgery, while possible, are unlikely. Some potential complications can be avoided by carefully following Dr. Jason’s instructions.
In addition to the usual risks associated with anesthesia, other risks include:
- Headaches: not uncommon but most common limited to the first 1-2 weeks
- Hematoma: Is a collection of blood beneath the skin and can be treated without compromising result.
- Infections are very rare.
- Visual changes are very rare
- Excessive tearing
- Temporary eye dryness.
EYELID LIFT SURGERY recovery
Prior to your nose job procedure, Dr. Roostaeian will go over what you can expect after your surgery and answer any questions you may have. Before being discharged from the UCLA Surgery Center, you will receive detailed post-op instructions from the staff, as well as information about your follow-up appointment with Dr. Jason. If at any time you have a question or concern after your surgery, our staff is available to assist you. Dr. Jason cares deeply about providing the highest standard of care for his patients, and will closely monitor your healing process.
As with any surgical procedure, recovery from a rhinoplasty proceeds in stages. While everyone’s healing process is different, you may expect the immediate recovery period to take about one to two weeks, followed by an activity restriction. Full healing and results will be apparent around the 3-4 month mark, while your scar (if applicable) and swelling will continue to improve for 6 months to one year.
How do I control swelling after a eyelid surgery?
Swelling is normal following surgery. Some measures to reduce the amount of swelling include: a) Try to keep your head above the level of your heart at all times for the first 2 weeks. Dr Jason recommends a large wedge that elevates your back and your head. b) Use cooling measures such ice water soaked gauze or ice water in a ziplock for the first 48-72 hours. Your skin should just feel cool to the touch. Avoid anything completely frozen such as gel packs as this can cause damage to your skin. c) Avoid activities that involve bending over or straining. You should also minimize your salt intake as much as possible after surgery. Ideally you should ingest no more than 1-2 grams per day for the first 3 months after surgery. All of these measures combined will help minimize the amount of swelling you encounter following surgery.
What can I expect after an eye lift?
Generally mild discomfort. Up and about the same day. Stitching to be removed by 7 days. Swelling and bruising mostly gone by two weeks. Makeup can be worn after 1 week. Avoid excuser or any significant increase in your heart rate for two weeks. You can start exercises that do not require leaning over or significant movement/motion of the head and neck at 3-4 weeks. Return to full activity and return to full activity/exercise at 2-3 months.
Although every patient is unique, here is a general idea of what to expect after eye lift surgery with Dr. Jason Roostaeian:
- Keep your head elevated 30-45 degrees for at least a week to minimize swelling. Also, do not bend over. It’s important to keep your head above your heart.
- Clean incisions (face, eyes, and/or neck) very gently with half strength witch hazel (use tap water to dilute). Q-Tips will work perfectly to remove crusts from suture lines.
- Keep animals away from your incisions. Do not allow animals to sleep in your bed for 4 weeks.
- During the first week post surgery have a soft, very low-salt diet, no chewing and minimal amount of fluids.
- During week two up to 3 months, maintain a low-salt diet with minimal fluids.
- Do not consume aspirin or ibuprofen products within 2 weeks post surgery.
- No nicotine products within 4 weeks post surgery.
- Be very gentle when caring for your hair for 4 weeks. No brushing, pulling, or rubbing on the hair around the sutures. Do not use any heat (curlers, curling iron, blow dryers, etc.) on your hair as your scalp and face can be burned very easily.
- No extreme temperatures on your eyelid area such as heating pads or ice packs. Your nerve endings and blood supply in some areas have been temporarily disturbed and you can easily burn or freeze.
- Be careful when pulling clothing over your head.
- Avoid the direct sun or tanning spa for at least 12 weeks following surgery as fresh scars will permanently pigment (turn brown).
When will I see my final eyelid lift results?
It takes about six weeks to to see the final eye lift results after surgery with Dr. Roostaeian. Although much of the swelling and bruising subsides over the course of the first couple of weeks post-op, some slight swelling can remain for about 6 weeks. Your scars will continue to fade and generally will virtually disappear in time.
When can I exercise or work out after eye lift surgery?
For the first 2-3 weeks following eyelid surgery, you want to avoid straining (lifting anything more than 5 lbs), or getting your heart rate/blood pressure up as this can lead to bleeding. After 2-3 weeks you should avoid mechanical forces that will stress or put tension on your healing incisions for 3 months. This means you should avoid high impact activities that lead to excessive movement of your head and neck, such a running. If you feel up for it, after 2-3 weeks, Dr Jason Roostaeian recommends starting with the seated stationary bicycle which is low impact and minimizes movement of your head and neck. Listen to what your body is telling you at all times, for instance stop the workout if you experience any new discomfort in your eyelid area. Remember, getting plenty of rest and reducing your overall activity will give you time to heal and speed up your recovery!
As always, consult with Dr. Jason if you have any questions about your post-brow lift healing process.
What does an eye lift scar look like?
Minimal to no scarring, well concealed in the natural creases of the eyelid. Your scars will fade over time, remaining extremely inconspicuous and virtually undetectable in most people.
How soon can I go out after an eyelid lift?
The eyelids tend to scar very well. Therefore, at about 2-3 weeks when the swelling and bruising has resolved, most patients will feel comfortable with attending special engagements.
How much time off work should I take after an eye lift?
While everyone heals at a different pace, there are general guidelines to help determine how much work or school you’ll miss after an eye lift. To promote proper healing, Dr. Roostaeian recommends taking at least 1 week off after eyelid surgery. Most patients are able to work from home or do homework after a few days of rest. Most patients with non-strenous jobs can return to work after about one week. If your work requires significant physical activity (lifting more than 5 pounds) you want to wait at least 2-3 weeks to prevent any increases in your blood pressure that can lead to bleeding while your’re still in the early stages of healing.
How long do the results of a blepharoplasty last?
Just as with any rejuvenation procedure, we cannot prevent ongoing aging but we can set the clock back many years! With that said, the eyelid surgery seems to be one of the more resilient procedures we perform. It is very rare for patients to request a repeat eyelid surgery procedure in less than 20 years.
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