Medically reviewed by Dr. Hootan Zandifar, MD, FACS — double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Beverly Hills & Santa Monica · 2026-10-16
Quick answer: Upper blepharoplasty removes excess skin (and sometimes fat) from the upper eyelid to open a hooded, tired-looking eye. Lower blepharoplasty addresses under-eye bags and puffiness by repositioning or removing fat and tightening the lower lid. They solve different problems and are sometimes done together; an exam determines what you need.
Upper blepharoplasty
Targets the upper lid — excess, drooping skin (hooding) that can make you look tired or heavy-eyed. Conservative removal opens the eye for a rested look; incisions hide in the natural crease.
Lower blepharoplasty
Targets under-eye bags and puffiness by repositioning or removing fat and, when needed, tightening the lower lid. It refreshes a tired lower-eye appearance.
One or both
Some patients need only the upper, only the lower, or both for a balanced result. They address separate issues, so the plan is based on what’s actually bothering you.
Natural results
As with all eyelid surgery, conservative technique is what keeps results natural — over-resection is what looks surgical or hollow.
Key points
- Upper: removes hooding skin on the upper lid
- Lower: addresses under-eye bags/puffiness
- They solve different problems; sometimes combined
- Conservative technique keeps results natural
Frequently asked questions
Do I need upper or lower blepharoplasty?
It depends on whether your concern is upper-lid hooding or under-eye bags — an exam confirms.
Can I have both?
Yes, many patients do for a balanced result.
Will there be visible scars?
Upper incisions hide in the lid crease; lower approaches are designed to be discreet.
Is it covered by insurance?
Upper lids may be if they impair vision; cosmetic cases are not. Evaluated individually.
Related on this site: Blepharoplasty · upper eyelid lift · under-eye filler.
Talk to a specialist in Beverly Hills
To find out which eyelid procedure fits your eyes, Dr. Zandifar sees patients in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica and reviews your anatomy in person before recommending anything. Request a consultation.
Dr. Hootan Zandifar, MD, FACS, is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and otolaryngologist in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica. Educational information only, not medical advice.
