Eyelid Surgery in Nashville, TN

In cases where excess upper eyelid skin droops significantly enough to obstruct the superior visual field, upper eyelid surgery may be considered functional (not purely cosmetic). This typically requires documentation from an ophthalmologist confirming the visual field impairment. Please note that Dr. Griffin does not accept insurance. Our team can help guide you through the process if applicable.

Upper blepharoplasty targets excess skin and fat in the upper eyelid, correcting hooding or heaviness. Lower blepharoplasty addresses puffiness, under-eye bags, and excess skin below the eye. The incision for upper blepharoplasty is placed in the natural eyelid crease. Lower blepharoplasty may use a transconjunctival approach (inside the lower lid, no external scar) or a subciliary incision just below the lash line, depending on the anatomy and the degree of correction needed.

Upper eyelid incisions are placed in the natural crease of the eyelid, where scars are usually imperceptible once healed. Lower eyelid scars, when an external approach is used, are placed just below the lash line and usually become very difficult to detect within a few months. Dr. Griffin uses precise technique and fine suturing to minimize any visible scar. The transconjunctival approach for lower blepharoplasty leaves no external scar at all.

Most patients experience bruising and swelling for 7–10 days following eyelid surgery. Many patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities within 7 days, though some residual swelling and mild bruising may remain — they can be disguisable with makeup after your stitches are removed around day 6. Strenuous activity and heavy lifting are restricted for 2–3 weeks. Final results are typically visible within 4–6 weeks as swelling fully resolves.

Blepharoplasty is frequently combined with a facelift, brow lift, or facial rejuvenation procedures to provide comprehensive facial renewal. It can also be combined with laser skin resurfacing or chemical peels to address fine lines and skin texture around the eyes. Dr. Griffin will discuss whether a combined approach serves your goals and is appropriate for your anatomy.

Ptosis refers specifically to drooping of the upper eyelid caused by weakness of the levator muscle — the muscle responsible for lifting the eyelid. This is different from dermatochalasis, which is excess skin causing hooding of the eyelid. Both can create a heavy, tired appearance, and both may be present simultaneously. Dr. Griffin will assess whether your concern is skin-related, muscle-related, or both, as the treatment differs accordingly.

Good candidates are adults with excess upper eyelid skin, under-eye puffiness, or lower lid laxity who are in good general health, have realistic expectations, and do not have active eye conditions that could complicate healing. Certain conditions — such as dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, or thyroid-related eye disease — may require additional evaluation before surgery. Dr. Griffin will review your medical and ocular history thoroughly at your consultation.

Eyelid surgery usually produces long-lasting results. Good sun protection and skincare at The Skin Lounge can help maintain results and support long-term skin health around the eyes.

Eyelid surgery at Nashville Cosmetic Surgery can be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure and patient preference. Dr. Griffin will discuss the anesthesia approach that is appropriate for your specific procedure during your consultation.

Your eyelid surgery at Nashville Cosmetic Surgery will be performed in our onsite, state-licensed surgical facility. This means your procedure takes place in a dedicated surgical environment that has met the State of Tennessee's rigorous requirements for surgical safety, staffing, equipment, sterilization, and emergency preparedness — not in a shared hospital outpatient department or an unlicensed procedure room. Dr. Griffin and his dedicated surgical team perform every case in the same facility, ensuring consistency, privacy, and a level of personalized care that a hospital setting simply cannot provide.