Candidates for Eyelid Surgery

The best candidates for blepharoplasty are people in good health with realistic plastic surgery goals. Many people who decide to have this procedure are over 35 years old, but if baggy eyelids are hereditary, you may choose to have the surgery sooner. Eyelid surgery in San Luis Obispo County can reduce a number of aesthetic and functional concerns, including:

  • Bags under the eyes
  • Extra skin on the upper eyelids that makes it hard to see
  • Excess skin on the lower eyelids
  • Loose lower eyelids
  • Droopy or baggy upper eyelids
  • Fatty deposits that appear as puffiness in the eyelids

The best way to determine if you are a candidate for eyelid surgery is by having a consultation at our office. At this visit, Dr. Chalekson will review your aesthetic goals, anatomy, and health history to individualize a treatment plan for you. We pride ourselves on taking a personal and honest approach with every patient interaction to ensure optimal results that keep you looking and feeling your best for many years to come.

Preparing for an Eyelid Lift

Before you opt for eyelid surgery in San Luis Obispo County, there are several factors to be aware of. These include:

  • Blepharoplasty does not eliminate dark circles under your eyes, which can be caused by pigment in the skin or tissue underneath.
  • Plastic surgery may not qualify for rebates from Medicare or private health insurance organizations, so be prepared for the cost.
  • Some costs may be covered if the procedure is done for medical reasons, so ensure you ask about any out-of-pocket expenses.
  • If you smoke, there is a greater risk of complications, so try to quit smoking if you are serious about eyelid surgery.
  • Notify the doctor if you have any other previous eye surgery or diagnosis, such as cataracts, previous LASIK surgery, glaucoma, dry eyes, thyroid problems, or other issues.

Blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure. After the surgery, patients are typically placed in a recovery suite to be monitored. You may be released later in the day to go home and heal. It is normal to experience some tearing, dry eyes, blurry vision, and light sensitivity. Sleeping with your head raised above your chest for a few days can help with swelling. You should avoid rubbing your eyes, wearing contact lenses, or participating in any strenuous activities for the first one to two weeks.

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Recovery After Eyelid Surgery

Healing happens in stages. Swelling and bruising peak in the first few days, and Dr. Chalekson typically removes any external stitches within five to seven days. Most patients feel comfortable running errands by the end of the first week, with any residual bruising easy to cover with concealer. A return to desk work is common within seven to ten days. Sunglasses help with light sensitivity, while strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should wait two to three weeks. Dr. Chalekson gives each patient a personalized timeline based on whether the surgery involves the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.

Results From Eyelid Surgery

Initial improvement is visible within two to three weeks, though final results take three to six months to fully settle. Upper eyelid surgery tends to show its final shape sooner than lower eyelid work, so patients having both should expect a longer timeline.

Results can last for years, and many patients find their eyes look more alert and rested every time they look in the mirror.

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Why Choose Dr. Chalekson for Eyelid Surgery in San Luis Obispo County

Dr. Chalekson has practiced on the Central Coast since 2003 and is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, following a six-year residency at Southern Illinois University, one of the most rigorous programs in the country. Every blepharoplasty patient works directly with him from consultation through recovery, with no hand-off between providers. Eyelid surgery in San Luis Obispo County is performed at Kallos Surgery Center, the QUAD A and Medicare-certified facility Dr. Chalekson built in Templeton, where Victoria Hagg, PA, assists him in the operating room and follows patients through recovery for a familiar, experienced presence throughout the process.

Consider Chalekson Plastic Surgery | MedSpa for Your Eyelid Surgery in San Luis Obispo County

Chalekson Plastic Surgery | MedSpa offers a fully customized patient experience that focuses on your satisfaction, comfort, and safety. We measure our success on client satisfaction and the quality of the results, not the number of blepharoplasty procedures performed. When visiting our state-of-the-art facility, you receive the highest levels of quality, honesty, service, and compassion.

If you are considering eyelid surgery in San Luis Obispo County, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We happily serve patients from across California and the U.S., in addition to Paso Robles, Atascadero, Templeton, Cambria, Morro Bay, Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, Nipomo, Santa Maria, and Santa Barbara.

Eyelid Surgery FAQs

How much does eyelid surgery cost in San Luis Obispo County?

Cost depends on whether you are having upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both, along with anesthesia and facility fees at Kallos Surgery Center. Dr. Chalekson provides a personalized quote after your consultation.

Is eyelid surgery painful?

Most patients describe tightness and mild discomfort rather than sharp pain. Prescription or over-the-counter pain medication is typically enough to manage the first few days.

When can I wear makeup after eyelid surgery?

Most patients can wear makeup on the eyes once the incisions have fully closed, typically around ten to fourteen days after surgery. Dr. Chalekson will confirm timing at your follow-up visit.

Will I need someone to help me at home after surgery?

Yes. Patients need a driver for the day of surgery and should have someone available to help around the house for the first day or two while vision and mobility are still limited.

When can I drive after eyelid surgery?

Patients should avoid driving for the first few days after surgery, especially while taking prescription pain medication or if vision feels blurry. Most resume driving once swelling has eased and vision feels normal.

What is the difference between upper and lower eyelid surgery?

Upper eyelid surgery removes excess skin and fat that can hood the eyes or obstruct vision, while lower eyelid surgery addresses under-eye bags and loose skin. Many patients need only one, though some benefit from both.

Are there non-surgical alternatives to eyelid surgery?

Non-surgical options like Botox or dermal fillers can soften fine lines around the eyes, but they cannot remove excess skin or fat the way surgery can. Dr. Chalekson can help determine whether a surgical or non-surgical approach fits your goals.

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Take the Next Step Schedule a Consultation

If you are considering plastic surgery in San Luis Obispo County, our team can help you understand your options and move toward the outcome that feels right for you. We welcome patients from across California and the United States, including Paso Robles, Atascadero, Templeton, Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, Cambria, Santa Barbara, and Santa Maria.

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