Blepharoplasty is a facial plastic surgery procedure that trims sagging skin and removes small pockets of fat around the eyes. It is performed on the upper and lower lids, or both, and addresses drooping, puffiness, and, in some cases, obstructed vision.
Dr. Joel Kopelman offers personalized blepharoplasty in West Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens. With over 35 years of experience in ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery, he tailors each surgical procedure to the individual, restoring youthful contours while preserving lid function.
Most upper lid procedures take about one hour; combined upper and lower work generally runs one to two hours. Recovery for most patients means visible swelling for 7 to 10 days, with sutures removed within 5 to 7 days.
A blepharoplasty procedure addresses common eye conditions caused by aging, such as:
It involves removing excess skin and fat around the lids to restore a more alert, rested look. Some patients may also benefit from a complementary brow lift to improve upper face symmetry and lift heavy brows.
It is worth separating two problems that look alike. Heavy upper lids sometimes stem from descended brows rather than from the lid itself, and in those cases a brow procedure, not a lid procedure, is the correct answer.
As skin loses elasticity, upper lids can sag and press against the eyelashes, impacting appearance and vision. Cosmetic upper eyelid surgery corrects this by removing excess skin and fat while preserving natural lid shape.
Dr. Kopelman performs upper blepharoplasty in-office using local anesthesia or IV sedation at his surgical center. Incisions are carefully hidden within the natural lid crease to minimize visible scarring.
When excess skin hoods over the lashes and narrows the field of vision, an upper lid procedure can improve both function and appearance. A visual field test documents that obstruction and is typically required before any insurance review.
Patients searching for “blepharoplasty near me” often want a surgeon with extensive experience in both cosmetic and reconstructive lid work.
Dr. Joel Kopelman is an oculoplastic surgeon with offices in New York City, Florida, and New Jersey. He has performed thousands of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures for over 35 years, published numerous articles on the subject, and his expertise continues to be sought out by colleagues and patients across the East Coast.
Oculoplastic surgeons complete ophthalmology training before subspecializing in surgery of the lids, orbit, and tear drainage system. That background matters when the goal is a natural lid contour that still protects the surface of the eye. Dr. Kopelman is a member of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
His experience allows him to assess the condition of your lids, brow position, and tear film together, so that functional and cosmetic goals are addressed in the same plan.
Lower lid surgery reduces bulging fat deposits and tightens loose tissue. Dr. Kopelman often uses a scarless transconjunctival approach to address puffiness without external incisions.
For patients seeking a lower eye lift in West Palm Beach, he uses techniques that reduce puffiness and smooth the under-eye area without pulling the lid margin downward.
In patients with volume loss, he may reposition or implant fat to fill hollows and smooth under-eye contours. A skin-muscle tightening technique may be added for those with sagging skin.
The transconjunctival approach places the incision on the inside surface of the lower lid, so no external scar is created. When loose skin also needs to be addressed, a fine incision just beneath the lash line is used instead, and it heals as a nearly imperceptible line.
Lower lid work generally involves more bruising and a slightly longer social recovery than upper lid work. Plan for 10 to 14 days before bruising fully resolves.
Dr. Kopelman’s approach emphasizes:
Every patient receives a detailed evaluation covering vision, brow position, skin condition, tear film quality, and medical history. This ensures safety and optimal results.
Pre-existing dry eye, thyroid disease, and prior LASIK or PRK do not automatically rule out surgery, but they do change the plan. They are reviewed carefully during consultation because they influence how much tissue can be safely removed.
Day of Surgery:
Post-Surgery:
Follow-Up
Most patients are comfortable reading and using a phone or computer within 48 hours. Vigorous exercise is limited for three to four weeks, and sunglasses and sunscreen protect the healing skin once the incisions have closed.
| Timeframe | Upper Lids | Lower Lids |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1 to 2 | Swelling peaks; cold compresses, drops, and ointment; reading and screen use comfortable by 48 hours | Swelling and bruising peak; head elevated; no driving |
| Days 5 to 7 | Sutures removed; steri-strips may be applied | Sutures removed if an external incision was used |
| Days 7 to 10 | Most swelling resolved; many patients return to work | Noticeable improvement; residual bruising may remain |
| Days 10 to 14 | Contact lenses and eye makeup generally resumed | Bruising typically resolved; makeup generally resumed |
| Weeks 3 to 4 | Vigorous exercise cleared | Vigorous exercise cleared |
| Months 3 to 12 | Incision lines continue to fade and soften | Final contour settles; scars mature |
Cost depends on whether the upper lids, lower lids, or both are treated, and whether a related procedure, such as ptosis repair, is needed at the same time. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons publishes national average surgeon fees, which exclude anesthesia and facility charges.
Practice fees at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery are quoted as all-inclusive figures. A consultation fee applies and is often credited toward surgery. Your exact quote is confirmed in writing after your evaluation.
| Procedure | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Upper blepharoplasty | $8,500 | All-inclusive; most commonly performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation |
| Lower blepharoplasty | $8,500 | All-inclusive; transconjunctival approach available |
| Double eyelid surgery | $8,500 to $10,000 | Range reflects technique and complexity |
| Ptosis repair | $10,000 per eye | Muscle repositioning; may qualify for partial insurance coverage |
| Consultation | $350 | Includes full evaluation and personalized surgical plan |
“I saw Dr. Kopelman for my upper and lower eyelids. I knew shortly after meeting him, he was the right physician for me. Prior to surgery, he eased my anxiety, and I felt confident and secure. I was 200% sure I made the right decision. My results are beyond my wildest dreams. I look natural, refreshed, and 15 years younger! The office staff is kind, helpful and accommodating. I highly recommend Dr. Kopelman. He is an artist and an extraordinary surgeon, but more importantly a kind and gentle soul.”
~ Susan S.~
Whether you are experiencing dry eyes, vision obstruction, or simply want to look more youthful, Dr. Kopelman can help you achieve natural results through expert eyelid surgery in West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and surrounding areas.
Many patients start their search locally, looking for a cosmetic eye surgeon in West Palm Beach who handles drooping lids, under-eye bags, or vision concerns.
Frequently asked questions
about Eyelid Surgery
Schedule a Consultation
For a Blepharoplasty
To schedule a private consultation with Dr. Kopelman, please call the office or request an appointment online.
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