At ERA Aesthetics, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Kimberly Jones understands that the eyes play a powerful role in how rested, alert, and approachable you look. She performs upper and lower eyelid surgery at her Cary, North Carolina, practice with precision and attention to detail. She combines technical expertise with an empathetic approach, taking care to preserve your natural expression while addressing heaviness, puffiness, or excess skin around the eyes.

What Is Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, improves the appearance of the upper or lower eyelids by removing excess skin, repositioning fat, and refining contours around the eyes. The procedure can help patients look more rested, refreshed, and alert.

Most patients undergo eyelid surgery for cosmetic reasons, but upper blepharoplasty can also address sagging eyelids that obstruct peripheral vision.

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Eyelid Surgery Techniques

Upper Eyelid Surgery

Upper eyelid surgery removes excess skin, fat, and muscle from droopy upper eyelids. In most cases, the procedure is performed using local anesthesia, and Dr. Jones conceals the incisions within the natural eyelid crease. The result is a more open and youthful appearance.

Upper eyelid surgery can help:

  • Improve visual field obstruction caused by excess skin
  • Reduce hooding or drooping
  • Improve a tired or aged appearance
  • Restore a more vibrant, alert look

Lower Eyelid Surgery

Lower eyelid surgery focuses on under-eye puffiness, bags, and loose skin. Depending on your anatomy, Dr. Jones may remove or reposition fat and tighten the skin to create a smoother transition between the lower eyelid and cheek.

Dr. Jones makes incisions either just below the lash line or inside the lower eyelid, a technique called transconjunctival blepharoplasty. This approach is often ideal for patients with under-eye bags and good skin elasticity. Dr. Jones may perform your procedure using a general anesthetic.

Lower eyelid surgery can help:

  • Reduce under-eye bags
  • Smooth hollowing or puffiness
  • Improve skin laxity beneath the eyes
  • Create a refreshed, well-rested appearance

  

Close-up of woman's face in black and white

Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty

Some patients combine upper and lower eyelid surgery for comprehensive rejuvenation with the convenience of a single recovery period.

Dr. Jones

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Kimberly Jones blends surgical expertise with genuine empathy. Known for mommy makeovers and body contouring, she offers personalized, natural-looking results in a supportive, judgment-free environment where patients feel comfortable, understood, and confident from consultation through recovery.

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Blepharoplasty Recovery Timeline

Recovery after eyelid surgery varies from patient to patient, as bruising and swelling are highly individual. There is no reliable way to predict how much bruising or swelling any one person will experience. A typical recovery timeline follows these milestones:

First 7–14 days

Bruising and swelling gradually improve.

After the initial healing period

Many patients feel comfortable appearing in public without noticeable signs of surgery.

Following weeks

Final results continue to refine as residual swelling resolves.

Additional Recovery Considerations

  • Some patients experience minimal bruising, while others notice more visible swelling.
  • Temporary tightness, dryness, or mild irritation around the eyes may occur and typically improve as healing continues.
  • Most patients feel comfortable returning to normal daily activities as healing progresses.

Dr. Jones provides detailed postoperative instructions and close follow-up to support healing and comfort throughout recovery.

Eyelid Surgery FAQs

How long do eyelid surgery results last?

Results are long-lasting. Many patients enjoy refreshed results for years, though natural aging continues.

Will eyelid surgery change how my eyes look?

Dr. Jones focuses on preserving your natural eye shape and expression. The goal is to look rested—not different.

Is eyelid surgery painful?

Discomfort is typically mild and well-controlled. Most patients describe tightness or soreness rather than pain.

Can eyelid surgery be done alone?

Yes. Eyelid surgery can be performed on its own or combined with other procedures or nonsurgical treatments, depending on your goals.

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With Dr. Jones

A consultation with Dr. Jones never feels rushed. She takes the time needed to listen to your concerns and answer all of your questions, so you feel confident in your choice. You can use the online form to request a consultation or call us at (919) 342-9844. Women and men considering eyelid surgery in Raleigh, Cary, or throughout the Research Triangle trust Dr. Jones for outstanding care and results.

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