Drooping eyelids and under-eye bags can make you look tired, even when you feel wide awake. In Wisconsin, more people are discovering the subtle yet transformative power of blepharoplasty. This refined procedure enhances your natural features, restoring a fresher, more youthful appearance—without overdoing it. It’s not about changing how you look, but about letting your eyes reflect how you feel.
Whether it’s sagging upper lids affecting your vision or puffiness that makeup just won’t hide, eyelid surgery offers a precise, effective solution. With experienced hands and a tailored approach, blepharoplasty in Eau Claire helps patients feel more confident facing the world. If you’re ready for a refresh that still feels like you, this might be the step forward you’ve been looking for.
What is Blepharoplasty Surgery?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat from the eyelids. It can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, depending on the patient’s needs. The goal is to improve the contour and appearance of the eyes while addressing any functional impairments caused by drooping or sagging tissue.
Cosmetically, blepharoplasty helps refresh tired or aged eyes, creating a more alert and youthful look. Functionally, it can alleviate vision obstruction caused by overhanging upper eyelid skin. Whether for aesthetic improvement or improved daily comfort, blepharoplasty offers both subtle enhancement and practical relief tailored to each individual.
Who Are Good Candidates for Eyelid Surgery?
Ideal candidates for blepharoplasty are individuals experiencing sagging or drooping eyelids, puffiness around the eyes, or under-eye bags that affect their appearance or vision. Most are in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the results of the procedure. While age is not a strict factor, most patients are typically over 35 when signs of aging become more noticeable.
However, younger patients with hereditary traits—like puffy lower eyelids or hooded upper lids—may also benefit. A thorough consultation will determine if eyelid surgery is the best approach based on skin condition, eye structure, and personal goals. It’s important that candidates are non-smokers or willing to stop, and free from serious eye conditions that might complicate healing.
Your Blepharoplasty Consultation in Wisconsin
Your consultation is where everything starts. It’s an opportunity to discuss your concerns, goals, and expectations in a comfortable, no-pressure setting. During the visit, Dr. Ewings will examine the eyelid area, evaluate your medical history, and determine if blepharoplasty is a good fit. You’ll also get a chance to ask questions and understand the procedure from start to finish.
Photos may be taken to assist in treatment planning and to provide a visual reference for your results. This personalized approach helps ensure the procedure aligns with your unique facial structure and cosmetic preferences. The consultation is not just about qualification—it’s about crafting the right plan for you.
Blepharoplasty Patient Results
* Each patient is unique and individual results may vary.
Preparing for the Blepharoplasty
Getting ready for eyelid surgery starts well before the procedure itself. During your pre-op phase, Dr. Ewings will provide detailed instructions tailored to your health and surgical plan. This typically includes guidelines on medications to avoid, like aspirin or anti-inflammatories, and may involve stopping smoking to promote optimal healing.
You might also need to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and stay with you for the first day. In some cases, a few lab tests or a basic eye exam may be needed beforehand. Preparing your recovery space with essentials, like ice packs, gauze, and comfortable pillows, can also make a noticeable difference in your post-op experience.
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The Blepharoplasty Procedure
Blepharoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. It’s done under local anesthesia with sedation, or general anesthesia in certain cases, depending on the scope of the surgery and patient comfort. Dr. Ewings uses precise techniques to minimize visible scarring and ensure a natural-looking outcome tailored to each patient’s facial anatomy.
The approach will vary depending on whether you’re having an upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, or both. Each surgical technique is designed to address specific concerns, from heavy upper eyelids to puffiness or sagging under the eyes.
Upper Blepharoplasty
Upper blepharoplasty focuses on removing excess skin and, when needed, fat from the upper eyelids. Dr. Ewings carefully places incisions within the natural crease of the lid to ensure minimal visibility once healed. The goal is to create a smoother, more open appearance that doesn’t alter your natural look—just a refreshed version of it.
This procedure can also improve peripheral vision if drooping skin interferes with your sight. In many cases, patients notice that their eyes not only look more youthful but also feel less heavy or strained, especially by the end of the day.
Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower blepharoplasty targets puffiness, under-eye bags, and loose skin beneath the eyes. Dr. Ewings may use a transconjunctival approach—placing the incision inside the lower eyelid—or a subciliary incision just below the lash line, depending on your anatomy and cosmetic goals. Both methods allow access to reposition or remove fat and tighten skin, all while keeping scars discreet.
This technique helps reduce the tired or puffy appearance that no amount of concealer can fix. The result is a smoother, firmer under-eye area that looks refreshed but natural, never overdone.
The Recovery Process after Blepharoplasty
Recovery after eyelid surgery is usually straightforward, with most patients returning to normal activities within 7 to 10 days. Mild swelling and bruising are common initially, but these typically improve each day. Dr. Ewings will provide you with clear aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize discomfort.
Keeping your head elevated, using cold compresses, and following any medication guidelines can help speed up the healing process. Stitches are usually removed within the first week, and makeup or contact lenses should be avoided until you’re cleared. Most patients are socially presentable within 8 to 10 days, with visible swelling and bruising continuing to fade over the following weeks. While full results take time to settle in, many patients start seeing improvements within the first two weeks.
Why Choose Dr. Ember Ewings
For over a decade, Dr. Ember Ewings has taken pride in delivering excellence in plastic surgical care. She earned her medical degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and completed her surgical residency training in plastic surgery at Saint Louis University. Additionally, she gained extensive experience in pediatric and craniofacial surgery during her fellowship at the University of Tennessee – Memphis, and Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades in Paris, France. Dr. Ewings is also Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Ewings has enjoyed caring for patients of all ages from across the upper Midwest, and performs both cosmetic surgical, non-surgical, and reconstructive procedures, and is delighted to be able to provide outreach services in Durand, Wisconsin.
She owns and operates the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Eau Claire in Eau Claire. Prospective patients can reach Dr. Ewings through her online Consult Form, or at her practice, Plastic Surgery Clinic of Eau Claire – 715.833.2116 or 800.456.8222.
Frequently Asked Questions about Eyelid Surgery
Schedule a Consultation at Plastic Surgery Clinic of Eau Claire
If you’re tired of looking tired and ready for a positive change in your eyes and face, we encourage you to schedule a blepharoplasty consultation with Dr. Ewings at our state-of-the-art facility in Eau Claire, WI. Call us at 800-456-8222 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals.
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