Blepharoplasty in Nashville, TN

Men and women of all ages may seek an eyelid lift with Mayo Clinic-trained, board-certified Nashville plastic surgeon Chad Robbins, M.D., F.A.C.S., due to excess muscle, fat, and skin around the eyes. This condition tends to make an individual look old or tired. In some cases, the excess muscle, fat, and skin may even interfere with vision. An eyelid lift procedure (blepharoplasty) is a very popular surgical option in Nashville, Franklin and throughout the United States.

What is Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery uses the latest technology to reduce the excess muscle, fat and skin around the eye. It can also be used to correct drooping upper eyelids or puffy lower eyelids. These can make you look tired and may impact your vision. Eyelid surgery will not eliminate crow’s feet, wrinkles, or dark rings under your eyes. If that is your desired result, a brow lift or facelift may be a more appropriate procedure.

Benefits of Eyelid Surgery

Patients who have undergone eyelid surgery experience several benefits. Some include:

  • Appear more alert, rested and refreshed
  • Correct interference with vision
  • Improved self-image and confidence

An eyelid lift can correct drooping upper lids as well as eliminating puffy bags below the eyes. Eyelid lift cosmetic surgery helps erase signs of aging and reverses the toll of everyday stresses on a face. Following blepharoplasty, Dr. Robbins says that his patients typically feel more youthful and self-confident.

Individual Goals

Each eyelid lift is an individualized procedure. During the initial consultation, Dr. Robbins realistically discusses a patient’s goals and explains the techniques that will best achieve these goals. Blepharoplasty is often performed in conjunction with other facial surgeries, such as a brow lift or facelift. Together, the patient and Dr. Robbins decide which procedures he will perform. Once a date for surgery is set, the patient is given instructions about how to prepare.

Eyelid Lift Procedures Details

Eyelid lift cosmetic surgery is performed while the patient is under local or general anesthesia, depending on the specific procedure(s) Dr. Robbins is performing. For the upper eyelid, Dr. Robbins makes incisions that follow the natural lines of the eyelids, extending slightly into the laugh lines or other existing creases. He generally conceals the incision within the natural fold of the upper eyelid. Through this incision, Dr. Robbins removes any excess skin and fatty tissue.

For a lower eyelid cosmetic procedure, Dr. Robbins often conceals an incision below the lower lashes. Through this incision, he removes any excess skin, muscle, and fat. In some cases, Dr. Robbins may redistribute this fat to eliminate puffiness or bulges.

Am I a Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?

Patients wishing to undergo eyelid surgery are recommended to be over 35 years of age. If your eyelids are puffy and sagging, making you appear tired and worn out all the time, you may be an excellent candidate for eyelid surgery. Patients whose eyelids interfere with their vision should also schedule a consultation with Dr. Robbins.

How Much Does Eyelid Surgery Cost?

Cost for eyelid surgery will depend on the extent of the surgery as well as the number of treatments required to achieve the desired result. Most insurance plans do not cover plastic surgery or cosmetic procedures. Financing is offered via CareCredit® and Prosper Healthcare Lending. For payment information, please contact the office to see what options are available to you.

Blepharoplasty/Eyelid Surgery FAQs

Recovery from eyelid surgery typically unfolds over several weeks and can be categorized into distinct stages. The initial recovery phase, spanning approximately 1-2 weeks, is characterized by the most significant swelling and bruising. During this time, patients are advised to rest extensively and limit activities, often necessitating time off from work. As the recovery progresses into the 2-4 week mark, there's a noticeable reduction in swelling and bruising, allowing patients to gradually resume most of their regular activities. However, it's still important to abstain from heavy lifting and intense physical exercise during this intermediate recovery phase. The journey to full recovery extends over several months. This period is crucial as it leads to the complete healing of the surgical areas and the emergence of the final results. Throughout this process, adhering to Dr. Robbins’ post-operative instructions is essential for achieving optimal outcomes and a smooth recovery.

After blepharoplasty, Dr. Robbins will typically advise you to use a special ointment for a specified period. This is usually for 1-2 weeks post-surgery, but the exact duration can vary based on your individual healing process and the specifics of your surgery. The ointment helps to keep the area lubricated, reduce dryness, and aid in the healing process. It's important to follow Dr. Robbins’ instructions regarding the type and duration of ointment use.

Upper and lower blepharoplasty target different areas of the eyes for rejuvenation. Upper blepharoplasty focuses on the upper eyelids, removing excess skin and fat that can create a drooping, tired appearance. It's often chosen for cosmetic reasons or to improve vision obstructed by sagging eyelids. Lower blepharoplasty targets the lower eyelids, primarily addressing under-eye bags, wrinkles, and sagging skin. This procedure is usually cosmetic, aimed at rejuvenating the eye area and creating a more youthful, rested appearance. For patients interested in the benefits of both, the upper and lower eyelid surgery techniques can be combined into a single procedure.


Chad Robbins, M.D., F.A.C.S., is board certified in plastic surgery, and he is skilled in the most advanced cosmetic and reconstructive surgery techniques for men and women in and around Nashville and Franklin. In addition to performing facial plastic surgery, he is a leading provider of breast augmentation, liposuction, and other body contouring procedures. His focus is on helping patients enhance their quality of life as they achieve their aesthetic goals. Please contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Robbins in Nashville.

To view before and after pictures, click here.