From sagging skin and puffiness to fine lines and hollowing, changes around the eyes can make you look more tired or older than you feel. Fortunately, patients in the Kitchener-Waterloo area have access to proven options—both surgical and non-surgical—that can restore a refreshed, more open look. Learn more about how eyelid surgery can rejuvenate your look below.
At-Home and Non-Surgical Options
Before considering surgery, many people can benefit from simple steps and treatments:
- Medical-grade eye creams: The delicate skin around the eyes is thinner and more prone to fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness. Using high-quality products—such as those available through clinics and medispas—can help improve hydration, brightness, and smoothness. Options may include formulations with ingredients like retinol, peptides, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid.
- Lash enhancement: LATISSE® is an at-home prescription option for thicker, darker lashes that frame the eyes beautifully.
- Injectables: Wrinkle relaxers (e.g., BOTOX® Cosmetic) and dermal fillers smooth crow’s feet and restore volume to the undereye hollows. Results are temporary but effective and often require minimal downtime.
- Other in-office treatments: Depending on your needs, options like laser resurfacing or skin tightening can complement your routine for brighter, smoother skin.
Surgical Solutions: Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
When eyelid concerns go beyond what skincare or injectables can improve, eyelid surgery—technically called blepharoplasty—can offer a longer-lasting solution.
What it treats:
- Heavy or drooping upper eyelids (ptosis) that make the eyes appear smaller or tired
- Puffy undereye bags or excess skin
- Overhanging skin that interferes with your vision
Upper vs. lower eyelids:
- Upper eyelid surgery removes excess skin and sometimes fat through an incision hidden in the natural crease.
- Lower eyelid surgery addresses bags or loose skin with an incision just below the lash line or inside the lid.
Recovery:
Most people experience swelling or mild bruising for about one to two weeks, with a gradual return to regular activities in two to three weeks. Your final results will continue to be refined over several months.
Results and scarring:
Incisions are placed in natural skin folds to minimize visibility. Well-healed results often look subtle and natural.
Preparing for Your Procedure
It’s normal to have questions before any cosmetic procedure. Many people find it helpful to:
- Write down their goals (“I want to look more rested” or “I’d like my vision to feel unobstructed”)
- Review instructions for pre- and postoperative care
- Keep expectations realistic, focusing on improvement rather than perfection
Finding the Right Approach
Every patient’s eye area and goals are unique. During a consultation with one of our Royal College-certified plastic surgeons, you’ll:
- Discuss your concerns and priorities
- Review your medical history and suitability for different treatments
- Explore realistic outcomes and recovery timelines
Some patients may combine procedures—such as blepharoplasty with a brow lift—for more comprehensive rejuvenation.
Take the Next Step
If you’re ready to explore what’s possible, the first step is a professional consultation. Our team is here to guide you through your options—from skin care to surgery—and help you feel confident about your decision.
Schedule a consultation online or call our office at (519) 746-1132 to set up your appointment today.
This blog post was originally published in May 2019 and has been updated for 2025.
