If you are considering eyelid surgery in Englewood, CO, FacesFirst offers the specialized expertise and personalized care you deserve. Serving patients throughout the greater Denver area, including Englewood and surrounding communities, our double board-certified facial plastic surgeons provide upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, and combined upper and lower eyelid procedures designed to help you look more rested and refreshed. 

Call us today at (303) 744-2300 to schedule your eyelid surgery consultation!

What Is Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery, also called blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that addresses cosmetic and functional concerns of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. As the skin around the eyes begins to lose elasticity over time, it can develop sagging skin, puffiness, and visible signs of facial aging that make you look older or more fatigued than you feel. Blepharoplasty surgery is designed to address these changes by removing or repositioning excess skin, excess fat, and underlying tissue to restore more natural contours around the eyes.

At FacesFirst, Dr. Christopher Cote and Dr. Nicolette Picerno bring over 40 years of combined experience in facial plastic surgery to every blepharoplasty procedure they perform. Both surgeons are double board-certified in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology, giving them a deep understanding of facial anatomy and eyelid anatomy that is essential for producing natural-looking, balanced results. Their exclusive focus on the face means that every decision they make is grounded in specialized knowledge of the structures, proportions, and function of the facial region.

Upper Eyelid Surgery: Refreshing Your Upper Lids

Upper eyelid surgery, or upper blepharoplasty, targets the excess skin and tissue that accumulate on the upper eyelids as part of the natural aging process. Over time, the skin of the upper lids can begin to droop, creating drooping eyelid skin that rests on or near the lash line. In some cases, this drooping skin may obstruct vision, making upper eyelid blepharoplasty both a cosmetic and a functional consideration.

During upper eyelid surgery, Dr. Cote or Dr. Picerno carefully removes the excess skin and, when appropriate, addresses the underlying fat pads to create a smoother, more open appearance in the upper lids. Incisions are typically placed within the natural crease of the eyelid, helping to minimize visible scarring. The result is upper eyelids that appear more alert, without an overdone or unnatural look. 

Lower Eyelid Surgery: Addressing the Lower Lids

Lower blepharoplasty focuses on the lower eyelids, where concerns such as fat pads, puffiness, and loose skin can create a tired or worn appearance. Many patients seek lower eyelid surgery to address under-eye bags or dark circles that have not responded to non-surgical treatments or topical products. In some cases, lower lids may also develop excess skin or muscle weakness that contributes to a sunken or hollow look.

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty can be performed through an incision placed just below the lash line or, in select candidates, through a transconjunctival incision inside the lower lid. This approach allows Dr. Cote and Dr. Picerno to reposition or remove excess fat and address sagging skin while preserving the underlying bone structure and natural contours of the lower face. Lower eyelid lift results typically become more visible as swelling resolves in the weeks following the surgical procedure. 

Combined Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty

Many patients choose to address both the upper and lower eyelid areas during a single blepharoplasty procedure. Combining upper and lower eyelid surgery allows for a more balanced outcome and reduces overall recovery time compared to staging the procedures separately. 

In some cases, eyelid lift surgery may be paired with a brow lift or other facial rejuvenation procedures to address concerns that extend beyond the eyelid area. A brow lift, for example, can help correct brow ptosis that contributes to the appearance of drooping eyelids when the issue actually originates above the eye. Your surgeons will discuss whether multiple procedures make sense for your individual situation.

Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery: Who Is a Good Candidate?

Cosmetic eyelid surgery may be a good option for adults who are in good overall health and are experiencing one or more of the following concerns around their eyes:

• Excess skin or drooping skin on the upper eyelids that creates a heavy or hooded appearance
• Drooping eyelid skin that rests near or on the lash line
• Puffiness or fat pads beneath the lower eyelids
• Sagging skin or loose skin on the lower lids
• Dark circles accompanied by under-eye bags
• Tired-looking eyes that do not reflect how you feel
• Upper eyelid drooping that may be related to ptosis repair needs
• Asymmetry in the natural eyelid creases or upper lids

Good candidates are typically non-smokers or willing to stop smoking before surgery, have realistic expectations about what eyelid surgery can accomplish, and are not currently experiencing serious eye conditions such as chronic eye irritation or significant vision problems. During your consultation, Dr. Cote and Dr. Picerno will review your medical history and discuss your goals to help determine whether blepharoplasty is appropriate for you.

Ready to find out whether eyelid surgery is right for you? Contact our team at FacesFirst or call (303) 744-2300 to schedule your consultation.

What the Blepharoplasty Procedure Involves

Every blepharoplasty procedure at FacesFirst begins with a thorough consultation. Dr. Cote and Dr. Picerno take time to understand your concerns, examine your eyelid skin and facial anatomy, and explain your options in clear, straightforward language. Your treatment plan is built around your specific anatomy and aesthetic goals, not a one-size-fits-all approach.

Eyelid surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure and your preferences. Dr. Cote and Dr. Picerno will discuss anesthesia options with you in advance and collaborate with their anesthesia team to prioritize your comfort and safety throughout the surgical procedure. Pain management is addressed both during and after the procedure to help make your experience as manageable as possible.

The surgical techniques used depend on which areas are being treated. For upper blepharoplasty, incisions are placed within or just above the natural crease of the upper eyelid. For lower eyelid blepharoplasty, the approach varies based on whether the primary concern involves fat pads, sagging skin, or both. Procedures are performed with precision and care to preserve the functional integrity of the eyelid while achieving a natural, refreshed appearance.

Recovery and the Healing Process

After your eyelid surgery, you will spend a short time in the recovery room before being discharged home with a trusted adult companion. Most patients experience mild swelling, bruising, and temporary eye irritation in the days following surgery. These effects are a normal part of the healing process and typically begin to subside within one to two weeks.

Many patients feel comfortable returning to light activities and work within seven to ten days, though individual recovery varies. Dr. Cote and Dr. Picerno provide detailed aftercare instructions to support your recovery and help minimize the risk of complications such as poor healing or infection. Strenuous activity is typically restricted for several weeks, and sun protection is important during the healing period.

Final results from eyelid surgery often take several weeks to fully emerge as residual swelling resolves. Most patients find that their upper and lower eyelid areas look noticeably more open and refreshed within four to six weeks, with continued improvement over the following months. 

Can Blepharoplasty Improve More Than Appearance?

Blepharoplasty can improve both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the eyelid area for appropriate candidates. When excess skin on the upper eyelids becomes significant enough to obstruct vision, upper eyelid surgery may be considered a reconstructive surgery with functional benefits in addition to cosmetic improvements. In these cases, the procedure may be covered partially by insurance, depending on your plan and documentation of the functional impairment.

It is important to understand that blepharoplasty surgery addresses the eyelid area specifically. Concerns such as crow’s feet, brow position, or deeper facial aging may require additional treatments such as a brow lift, dermal fillers, or other facial rejuvenation procedures. Dr. Cote and Dr. Picerno will discuss a comprehensive approach during your consultation if complementary treatments might enhance your overall results.

Why Englewood Patients Choose FacesFirst for Eyelid Surgery

Patients throughout Englewood, CO, and the surrounding communities of Cherry Hills Village, Greenwood Village, Centennial, Littleton, and the Wash Park neighborhood in Denver choose FacesFirst Cosmetic Surgery for a straightforward reason: specialized expertise in facial plastic surgery delivered with genuine care.

Dr. Christopher Cote and Dr. Nicolette Picerno are not general plastic surgeons. They are facial plastic surgeons, meaning their training, experience, and daily practice are devoted exclusively to the face and neck. Both surgeons hold dual board certification in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology from the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology, respectively. 

Dr. Cote has been named Newsweek’s America’s Best Plastic Surgeon in Rhinoplasty for both 2023 and 2024. Dr. Picerno and Dr. Cote were both recognized as Top Doctors by Castle Connolly in 2023, 2024, and 2025. These honors reflect a consistent commitment to excellence that patients throughout the Englewood and Denver metro area have come to trust.

Schedule Your Eyelid Surgery Consultation Today

If you are ready to explore whether blepharoplasty in Englewood, CO, is right for you, the first step is a personalized consultation at FacesFirst. Our surgeons will take the time to understand your concerns, evaluate your eyelid anatomy, and help you make a confident, well-informed decision about your care. 

Serving patients from Englewood, Cherry Hills Village, Centennial, Greenwood Village, Littleton, and throughout the greater Denver metro area, FacesFirst combines over 40 years of practice history with nationally recognized facial plastic surgery expertise. 

Call us at (303) 744-2300 or request your consultation online today. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eyelid Surgery

What is the difference between an eyelid lift and blepharoplasty?

An eyelid lift and blepharoplasty refer to the same cosmetic surgical procedure. Both terms describe the surgical removal or repositioning of excess skin, fat, and tissue around the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. 

How do I know if I need upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both?

The right approach depends on where your primary concerns are located. If drooping skin on your upper lids is your main concern, upper blepharoplasty may be sufficient. If you are bothered by puffiness, dark circles, or loose skin on your lower lids, lower eyelid blepharoplasty may be more appropriate. Many patients benefit from addressing the upper and lower eyelid areas together. Dr. Cote and Dr. Picerno will evaluate your eyelid anatomy and discuss their recommendations during your consultation.

What is the recovery time for eyelid surgery?

Most patients return to light daily activities and desk work within seven to ten days after eyelid surgery, though individual recovery varies. Swelling and bruising typically improve significantly within two weeks. More strenuous activities are usually restricted for three to four weeks. Dr. Cote and Dr. Picerno provide personalized aftercare guidance to support a smooth healing process.

Can a brow lift be combined with eyelid surgery?

Yes, a brow lift is frequently combined with eyelid surgery when a low brow position is contributing to the appearance of heavy or droopy lids. Addressing brow position in conjunction with upper blepharoplasty can lead to a more balanced and harmonious facial rejuvenation outcome. Dr. Cote and Dr. Picerno will assess your brow position and facial anatomy and discuss whether combining procedures is appropriate for your goals.

What is the difference between blepharoplasty and ptosis repair?

Blepharoplasty addresses excess eyelid skin and fat, while ptosis repair specifically corrects droopy lids caused by muscle weakness in the muscle responsible for lifting the upper eyelid. Some patients require ptosis repair in addition to or instead of blepharoplasty, depending on the underlying cause of their eyelid drooping. Dr. Cote and Dr. Picerno will evaluate your eyelid function carefully during your consultation to determine the most appropriate course of treatment for your situation.

How long do the results of eyelid surgery last?

Results from eyelid surgery are long-lasting, though the natural aging process will continue over time. Most patients enjoy the benefits of their upper or lower eyelid surgery for many years. Factors such as skin quality, sun exposure, and lifestyle can influence how results evolve.