Blepharoplasty is a proven surgical solution if you’re frustrated by drooping eyelids or excess skin obscuring your natural eye contour. This procedure reduces excess eyelid skin and restores a refreshed, more open-eyed appearance, often improving vision if sagging lids interfere with sight.

Hooded eyes occur when a fold of skin droops over the natural eyelid crease, sometimes making eyes look tired or older than you feel. Blepharoplasty targets this problem by removing or repositioning skin and tissue, creating a brighter, more youthful look. Many patients notice a boost in their appearance and an improved field of vision. With a skilled oculoplastic surgeon like Dr. Ann Jayaram, you can expect personalized results tailored to your facial anatomy and goals.

What Are Hooded Eyes?

Hooded eyes are characterized by an extra layer of skin that droops over the crease of the upper eyelid. This can create a “heavy” or “shadowed” look and may even obscure the eyelid itself. For some, this trait is present from youth; for others, it develops with age or lifestyle factors. While many people embrace their unique eye shapes, excessive hooding can cause cosmetic and functional concerns.

Causes: Genetics and Natural Aging Process

The two primary contributors to hooded eyes are genetics and aging. Many people inherit the tendency for thicker upper eyelid skin or lower brow position. As we age, skin loses elasticity and muscles weaken, causing the upper eyelid to droop further. Environmental factors like sun exposure and smoking can accelerate these changes.

How Droopy Eyelids Affect Vision and Appearance

While hooded eyes are often a purely aesthetic concern, significant drooping may impair peripheral vision, particularly when driving, reading, or performing detailed tasks. From a cosmetic perspective, hooded lids can make eyes appear smaller or more fatigued, and may interfere with makeup application. Blepharoplasty for hooded eyes can address both issues simultaneously, restoring comfort and confidence.

Benefits of Facial Plastic Surgery for Hooded Eyes

The most immediate benefit of blepharoplasty for hooded eyes is a refreshed, youthful look. Removing excess skin or fat from the upper eyelids makes the eyes more open and defined. Patients often report looking less tired and more alert, with a smoother eyelid contour that enhances their natural features.

For those whose excess eyelid skin blocks part of their vision, blepharoplasty provides more than a cosmetic upgrade. Removing or tightening the drooping tissue can restore a full field of vision, making daily activities safer and more comfortable. This is particularly impactful for driving, reading, and using computers.

Feeling self-conscious about heavy, hooded eyelids is common. After blepharoplasty, many people experience a significant boost in confidence and self-esteem. Restoring a more vibrant, rested appearance helps reflect how you truly feel inside.

Who Is a Candidate for Eyelid Lift?

Ideal candidates for blepharoplasty for hooded eyes are healthy adults who are bothered by excess upper eyelid skin, whether for aesthetic or vision-related reasons. Common motivations include wanting to look less tired, struggling with makeup application, or noticing a decline in peripheral vision.

Good candidates should be in good health, without severe eye conditions or uncontrolled medical issues. During your consultation, Dr. Ann Jayaram will review your medical history, ask about medications, and discuss any conditions that could affect healing or outcomes.

Your journey begins with a detailed assessment, where Dr. Ann Jayaram listens to your goals, examines your eyelid anatomy, and discusses expected results. You can ask questions and review relevant options, ensuring you feel informed and confident in your decision.

Understanding Blepharoplasty Surgery

Blepharoplasty can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, depending on your needs. For hooded eyes, upper blepharoplasty is the main approach, focusing on removing or repositioning excess skin and tissue above the eye. Lower blepharoplasty addresses under-eye bags and puffiness, which may complement the results.

A hallmark of expertly performed blepharoplasty for hooded eyes is a natural, rejuvenated appearance. Dr. Ann Jayaram utilizes advanced techniques to ensure incisions are discreet and results harmonize with your unique facial features. The goal is to enhance your natural beauty, not to change your identity.

Preparing for Plastic Surgery

Preparation begins with a comprehensive consultation. Dr. Ann Jayaram will evaluate your eyelids, review your health history, and create a personalized treatment plan. You’ll receive detailed instructions on preparing for surgery, including any necessary lab tests or medication adjustments.

In the weeks leading up to blepharoplasty, patients are typically advised to:

Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (as directed)
Stop smoking to support healing
Arrange for transportation and post-op support
Follow all pre-surgical instructions from Dr. Ann Jayaram

Being well-prepared helps ensure a smooth experience and optimal results.

What to Expect From Upper Eyelid Ptosis Repair Surgery?

Upper eyelid ptosis repair is a specialized surgical procedure that corrects eyelid drooping caused by muscle weakness rather than just excess skin. It improves eyelid function and rejuvenates the eyes by restoring a more youthful, alert look. Below are the key steps involved in droopy eyelid ptosis surgery:

1. Anesthesia and Surgical Prep

To ensure comfort and safety, ptosis repair is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the case. The area is carefully prepped to maintain sterility, and markings are made to preserve your natural upper eyelid crease, which plays a crucial role in both functional and aesthetic outcomes.

2. Muscle Tightening or Advancement

The core of droopy eyelid ptosis surgery involves correcting the levator muscle, which controls eyelid elevation. The surgeon either tightens or reattaches the muscle to lift the eyelid to a more appropriate height. This technique improves the field of vision and helps create a more defined and youthful eyelid contour.

3. Eyelid Sculpting and Symmetry Check

In addition to functional repair, the surgeon may remove or reposition small amounts of skin or fat to address upper eyelid aging. This enhances the overall outcome, especially when the procedure is combined with other cosmetic surgeries. Symmetry is carefully evaluated throughout to ensure both eyelids sit evenly and follow the natural curve of the brow.

4. Precise Closure Along the Crease

The incision is closed with fine sutures along your natural upper eyelid crease, allowing scars to remain hidden once healed. The delicate placement ensures minimal visible scarring while supporting the eyelid’s new shape and position. This final step is key to achieving a subtle yet significant improvement that looks natural and refreshed.

Recovery After Surgery for Hooded Eyes

After surgery, you may experience mild swelling, bruising, or discomfort—these are normal and usually subside within 1–2 weeks. Dr. Ann Jayaram will provide specific aftercare instructions, including how to keep the area clean, use prescribed medications, and manage swelling.

After surgery, you may experience mild swelling, bruising, or discomfort—these are normal and u

First week: Swelling and bruising peak, then gradually improve. Most patients can return to non-strenuous activities within 7–10 days.
2–4 weeks: Incisions continue to heal and become less visible. Makeup can usually be applied after about two weeks.
One month and beyond: Final results begin to emerge as residual swelling fades. Scars typically become faint and barely noticeable.

Tips for optimal healing and results include applying cold compresses as directed, keeping your head elevated while resting, avoiding strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks, and following Dr. Ann Jayaram’s post-op instructions closely.

Results and Longevity

While you’ll notice improvements quickly, the final results of blepharoplasty for hooded eyes become evident several weeks after surgery, once all swelling has resolved. Most patients enjoy their rejuvenated appearance within 1–2 months.

Results are long-lasting, with many people enjoying their refreshed look for 7–10 years or even longer. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and protecting your skin from sun exposure can help prolong your results.

View our cosmetic eyelid surgery photos in our gallery.

Alternatives and Complementary Procedures

For those not ready for surgery, non-surgical treatments can offer subtle improvements. Options include Botox for brow elevation or fillers to support the upper lid. Results are temporary but may delay the need for surgery. In many cases, upper eyelid filler injections are preferable for younger patients.

Blepharoplasty can be combined with other aesthetic procedures for enhanced results. Popular choices include brow lamination to lift and shape the brows or skin resurfacing treatments for smoother, brighter skin.

Can I Combine Hooded Eyelid Surgery With a Brow Lift?

Yes, upper eyelid surgery can be combined with a forehead lift or other procedures in many practices to enhance the overall rejuvenation of the eye area. Patients with droopy upper eyelids, excess fat, or sagging brows may benefit from a combined approach that addresses both the eyelids and brow position. While upper eyelid blepharoplasty focuses on removing or repositioning skin and fat from the upper lids, a lateral brow lift targets the outer portion of the brows to elevate them and open up the eyes. Together, these procedures can contribute to a more youthful eye appearance by correcting heaviness in both the lid and brow regions.

However, it’s important to note that Dr. Jayaram does not perform surgical brow lifts. Her focus is on upper eyelid blepharoplasty and lower eyelid surgery to refine the eye contour and restore a rested, natural look. In some cases, she may recommend non-surgical alternatives or collaborate with other specialists if a brow lift is needed. During your consultation, Dr. Jayaram will evaluate whether the appearance of drooping is due to excess fat, brow descent, or true eyelid ptosis and help you decide on the best course of treatment tailored to your anatomy and goals.

Dr. Ann Jayaram: Experience You Can Trust

As an oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Ann Jayaram brings advanced training and a personalized approach to every blepharoplasty for hooded eyes. Her focus on natural, harmonious outcomes has helped many patients achieve renewed confidence and improved vision. Discover more about her credentials and philosophy at ellevateMD.

Conclusion

Blepharoplasty for hooded eyes is more than just a cosmetic enhancement—it’s a functional and restorative procedure that can significantly improve your quality of life. By removing excess skin and fat, lifting the eyelids, and reshaping the eye contour, droopy eyelid surgery restores a more youthful, open-eyed appearance while also helping to expand the field of vision when sagging tissues obstruct sight. This is especially valuable for patients who struggle with makeup application, visual fatigue, or simply feeling that their facial appearance doesn’t reflect how vibrant they feel inside.

Dr. Ann Jayaram approaches each case with precision and a deep understanding of delicate eyelid skin, ensuring that results are both natural and balanced. Her advanced techniques minimize the risks typically associated with surgery—such as noticeable scarring, injury, and other issues—while maximizing aesthetic and functional benefits. During your cosmetic eyelid evaluation, she carefully examines your anatomy and listens to your concerns to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Whether you’re dealing with upper eyelid hollowness, sagging tissues, or asymmetry, Dr. Jayaram offers a solution grounded in expertise and artistry.

In some cases, patients may require upper eyelid ptosis surgery in combination with blepharoplasty to fully correct weakened eye muscles or drooping caused by muscle dysfunction. These procedures address many concerns, such as weakened eye muscles, skin discoloration, and structural changes caused by aging or genetics. While cosmetic eyelid procedures are generally safe, it’s important to be aware of the risks of anesthesia and blood clots. Dr. Jayaram takes every precaution to ensure a smooth surgical experience and a healthy recovery, always prioritizing your safety and comfort.

If you’ve been considering eyelid surgery to enhance your appearance or restore function, Dr. Ann Jayaram offers the experience, skill, and personalized care to help you achieve your goals. She can help you rediscover a brighter, more confident version of yourself with a thoughtful approach and dedication to natural-looking outcomes.

Before & After

Dr. Ann Jayaram

June 26, 2025