Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

Eyelid surgery — blepharoplasty — is a core sub-specialty at Dr. William Lao's Fifth Avenue practice in New York City. Both the upper and lower eyelids are treated, in single or combined procedures tailored to the patient's anatomy and goals.

For upper blepharoplasty, Dr. Lao uses either an incisional or non-incisional approach to remove redundant skin and herniated fat, restoring the eyelid to a cleaner, more alert appearance. A particular area of expertise is Asian upper eyelid surgery, in which the double eyelid crease is created or refined. This is a nuanced procedure requiring an understanding of the distinct anatomy of the Asian eyelid, including the lower position of the levator…

Lower blepharoplasty targets the under-eye area, where prolapsed fat creates the appearance of puffiness or bags beneath the eyes. Dr. Lao selects between a transconjunctival approach (hidden inside the lower lid, leaving no external scar) or an external incision, depending on whether excess skin removal is also required alongside fat repositioning. The procedure takes one to two hours and is performed under general or local anaesthesia on an outpatient…