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Eyelid Surgery in Brookline, MA

Restore Eye Definition and Visual Comfort

When eyelids begin to sag or feel heavy, they can change both how you look and how well you see. Puffiness beneath the eyes, drooping skin, or loss of natural crease definition often make people look more tired than they feel.

Eyelid surgery in Brookline offers a solution to these concerns. At the clinic of Dr. Richard A. Bartlett, we provide both cosmetic and functional eyelid procedures designed to restore your appearance while preserving the natural shape of your eyes.

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What Is Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, removes or repositions skin, fat, and muscle from the upper or lower eyelids. This procedure restores the natural contour of the eyes and may improve peripheral vision in patients with significant drooping. 

Upper eyelid surgery lifts sagging skin that can impair sight or cause discomfort. Lower eyelid surgery addresses puffiness or volume loss beneath the eyes. Both procedures support more alert, balanced features without altering your unique expression.

 

Who Is a Candidate for Blepharoplasty?

Eyelid surgery may be right for you if you notice persistent puffiness, loose skin that folds into your lash line, or a change in how open your eyes appear. Candidates should be in good health and have no active eye conditions. 

Some patients pursue surgery for functional reasons, such as visual obstruction, while others seek cosmetic improvement. During your blepharoplasty consultation, we examine your eye anatomy, review your health history, and discuss the changes you hope to achieve.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure. It is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the work. 

For the upper lids, incisions are placed in the natural crease to remove excess tissue and restore definition. For the lower lids, incisions may be made just below the lash line or inside the eyelid to remove or reposition fat and tighten the skin. 

The procedure typically lasts one to two hours and is designed for precision, symmetry, and minimal scarring.

 

Recovery and What to Expect After Surgery

Most patients experience swelling and bruising around the eyes during the first few days. Tightness, mild discomfort, and light sensitivity are common early on but improve quickly with rest and cold compresses. Stitches are usually removed after five to seven days. 

Many people return to normal activities within one week. As the swelling resolves, the eyes appear smoother and more defined, with final results becoming clearer over several weeks. Incisions are placed in natural folds and tend to fade with time.

Benefits of Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery offers long-lasting improvement in both appearance and comfort. It restores the natural contour of the eyes, reduces puffiness, and can help lift skin that blocks vision. 

Patients often report looking more rested and feeling more confident. In functional cases, upper eyelid surgery may expand the visual field and relieve forehead tension caused by overcompensation. Results are subtle but significant, often allowing patients to feel more like themselves again.

"Everyone that’s ever known me has called me Mrs. Just So. In other words, I am very particular and also a perfectionist in all areas. I couldn’t have picked a better plastic surgeon. My husband and I met Dr. Bartlett and didn’t even feel that we had to get a second opinion. No one can even tell that I had this done. People will say, “Oh, I love your haircut, you look so good,” and then other people I tell will say, “Oh my god, I want his number.” They say they’ve never seen anyone look so natural. Dr. Bartlett is a perfectionist and very tedious and is an artist. He listens and cares and even called me over the weekend to see how I was doing. His entire staff is very friendly and knowledgeable as well. I would recommend Dr. Bartlett to anyone!"

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Cost of Eyelid Surgery in Brookline

The total cost of blepharoplasty varies based on whether you choose upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both. Your estimate will include anesthesia, surgical facility fees, and all follow-up visits. 

If the procedure improves your vision, insurance may cover a portion of the cost. We review all fees in advance and offer financing options to help you plan confidently. Our focus is on clarity, comfort, and delivering results that last.

 

Why Choose Dr. Richard A. Bartlett

Dr. Richard Bartlett is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. He trained at Jefferson Medical College and completed a prestigious plastic surgery residency and fellowship at NYU. He has held leadership roles at Boston Children’s Hospital and remains active as faculty for the Harvard Plastic Surgery Residency Program. 

Patients in Brookline and throughout Boston choose Dr. Bartlett for his precision, clinical expertise, and individualized approach to care.

If you’re exploring additional options to complement your eyelid procedure, you may be interested in our facelift or facial implants and fat transfers, depending on your goals.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

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Is eyelid surgery only for cosmetic reasons?

No. Many people seek eyelid surgery for cosmetic enhancement, but others pursue it because drooping eyelids interfere with vision or eye comfort. In those cases, it may be considered medically necessary.

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How long do the results last?

Eyelid surgery provides results that last for many years. The skin will continue to age, but most patients do not require a second procedure for a long time.

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Will I have visible scars?

Incisions are placed in natural creases or just below the lash line. Most scars fade significantly and are difficult to detect after healing.

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Does the procedure involve much pain?

Most patients experience mild soreness or tightness for the first few days. These symptoms are manageable and typically short-lived.

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Can I combine eyelid surgery with other treatments?

Yes. Many patients choose to combine eyelid surgery with a facelift for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. We’ll help you decide what makes sense based on your goals.

Book Your Blepharoplasty Consultation in Brookline

If sagging eyelids or under-eye puffiness affect how you look or see, a personalized eyelid surgery plan may offer lasting relief. Contact Dr. Richard A. Bartlett’s office in Brookline to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward a clearer, more confident appearance.

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