You may qualify for eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) if excess skin, sagging, or puffiness around your eyes makes you look tired, obstructs your vision, or no longer reflects how vibrant you feel. Candidacy for blepharoplasty is based on your eyelid anatomy, skin quality, and goals.
As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, I evaluate eyelid surgery candidacy by focusing on structure, function, and balance. If you’re wondering how to qualify for blepharoplasty, this post outlines what I look for in candidates.
Physical Traits That Make You a Good Candidate for Blepharoplasty
You qualify for blepharoplasty when excess eyelid skin, muscle laxity, or protruding fat affects your appearance or comfort. Most candidates share a few common physical traits. During your consultation, I assess whether you have:
- Sagging upper eyelid skin that folds over the natural crease
- Hooded eyelids that make the eyes look heavy or closed
- Puffy under-eye bags caused by displaced fat
- Loose lower eyelid skin that creates a tired appearance
- Upper eyelid laxity that interferes with peripheral vision
Taken together, these features help determine whether surgery will meaningfully improve how your eyes look and how they function.
When Sagging or Hooded Upper Eyelids May Require Surgery
You’re likely a candidate for saggy or hooded eyelid surgery if excess skin weighs down the upper lids or hides the natural eyelid contour.
Upper blepharoplasty addresses drooping or hooded skin, while lower blepharoplasty focuses on under-eye bags and laxity. Many patients benefit from one or both procedures depending on where changes are occurring.
Does Age Matter When Deciding on Eyelid Surgery?
There is no “right age” for eyelid surgery. While many patients seek blepharoplasty in their 50s or 60s, younger patients may also qualify if genetics cause hooded lids or under-eye bags to develop earlier in life. Overall health, good skin quality and realistic expectations matter far more than age alone.
When Is Eyelid Surgery Not the Best Option?
Eyelid surgery may not be appropriate if your concerns are primarily due to brow position, muscle movement, or fine wrinkles. In these cases, nonsurgical treatments or other facial procedures, such as a brow lift, may provide better results. A thorough consultation ensures you choose the option that truly serves your goals.
Take the Next Step
If you’re wondering whether you’re a candidate for blepharoplasty, the best next step is a personalized evaluation. Call our office today at (615) 942-8016 or request a consultation using the online form. You can also browse some of our favorite blepharoplasty before-and-after photos and learn about financing options.
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