Blepharoplasty in Santa Monica, CA
Our eyes are the most expressive features on our faces. Slight changes in their appearance can dramatically affect our overall image. They are often the first facial feature to show signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, or drooping eyelids. In addition to changes in appearance, aging around the eyes can cause a sensation of tiredness. Blepharoplasty offers a comprehensive way to address these concerns, improving both appearance and comfort.
With nearly a decade of experience and a patient-centered approach, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Safa Sharabi brings precision and artistry to every eyelid procedure. Her personal philosophy honors each patient’s natural anatomy while enhancing the features that make their eyes expressive, bright, and uniquely their own.
To learn more, contact us today at (310) 692-8626 or complete our online form to schedule your blepharoplasty consultation and begin your journey toward brighter, more confident eyes.
What Is a Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a procedure designed to rejuvenate the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. Over time, the delicate tissues around the eyes can change drastically. Skin becomes loose, fat pads shift, and delicate muscles weaken, creating heaviness, puffiness, or a tired appearance that doesn’t reflect how a person truly feels. For many individuals, these changes can also cause functional concerns, such as difficulty applying makeup or even obstructed vision in the upper field. Many people report that their eyes feel especially tired towards the end of the day.
Eyelid surgery offers the opportunity to restore smoother contours, remove excess skin, reposition or reduce fat, and refine the natural crease and shape of the eyelids. Blepharoplasty may address upper-lid hooding, under-eye bags, fine wrinkling, or asymmetry between the eyes, depending on each patient’s individual needs. The goal is not to change the way someone looks, but to refresh the features that already make their eyes expressive and uniquely their own.
Blepharoplasty Techniques
Blepharoplasty can be tailored to address the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or a combination of both, depending on your anatomy and goals. Because the eyes are one of the most expressive and delicate areas of the face, choosing the right technique is essential for achieving natural results.
Upper Blepharoplasty
Upper blepharoplasty is primarily focused on heaviness, hooding, and excess skin around the upper eyelid that makes the eyes look tired or disrupts complete vision. During this process, Dr. Sharabi removes or repositions excess skin and fat through a discrete incision placed within the natural eyelid crease. The goal is to restore a smoother, more defined upper eyelid contour while preserving your natural expressions. This technique not only brightens the eyes for many people but also improves their comfort and ease with daily activities like applying makeup.
For some individuals, especially those who have lost some weight, the upper bony rim above the eye can look very prominent, which can cause one to look older than their age. Dr. Sharabi specifically addresses this when it is present by performing nano-fat grafting to the bony rim to camouflage it and restore a soft, youthful appearance.
Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower blepharoplasty addresses concerns such as under-eye bags, puffiness, fine wrinkles, or a hollowed appearance beneath the eyes. Depending on your specific needs, Dr. Sharabi may use an internal (transconjunctival) incision to reposition or remove fat without external scarring, or a small external incision just beneath the lash line to tighten skin and muscle. This approach smooths the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek without over-tightening or changing your natural eye shape.
Similar to an upper blepharoplasty, nano-fat grafting can be used to restore the contour of a hollow lower eyelid.
Dr. Sharabi also performs an anchoring procedure that can help prevent the lower eyelid from pulling downward, which is a known complication of lower blepharoplasty and can compromise the aesthetic result. The anchoring procedure, called a lateral canthoplasty, supports the lower lid without adding additional visible scars.
Combined Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty
For patients experiencing changes in both the upper and lower eyelids, a combined approach can offer the most harmonious rejuvenation. Treating both areas in a single procedure allows Dr. Sharabi to balance the overall eye contour, address multiple concerns all at once, and create a refreshed appearance that feels cohesive and natural. A combination option is especially beneficial for individuals seeking a more complete transformation or those whose signs of change affect the entire eye region.
Ideal Candidates for Eyelid Surgery in Santa Monica, CA
Dr. Sharabi believes that eyelid surgery should always begin with a thoughtful, holistic understanding of your health, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Your safety and well-being come first, and she takes the time to evaluate not just your eyelids but the bigger overall picture, including your healing capacity, medical history, and what you hope to achieve. If there are factors that could affect your recovery or results, she’ll work closely with you to create a plan that better supports your body and sets the stage for a smoother, successful outcome. Her goal is to be your partner throughout the entire process and help you make informed decisions that honor your unique facial characteristics and your wellness.
You may be an ideal candidate for eyelid surgery if:
- You’re in good overall health and free from conditions that could impair healing
- You’re bothered by drooping upper lids, under-eye bags, or a tired appearance that doesn’t reflect how you feel
- You’re experiencing function concerns, such as heaviness or vision obstruction from excess upper-lid skin
- You have realistic expectations and are seeking natural, refreshed results that won’t change your unique expressions
- You’re looking for a surgeon who values honesty, safety, and long-term outcomes
Your Blepharoplasty Consultation with Dr. Safa Sharabi in Santa Monica, CA
When you come in to discuss blepharoplasty with Dr. Sharabi, your consultation is designed to be an open, thoughtful conversation about your goals, your health, and how you want to feel in your appearance. Appointments are typically booked for a full hour, allowing for enough time to understand your story, how your eyelids have changed, what concerns you the most, and what kind of refreshed, natural results you hope to achieve, before recommending any next steps.
Once you and Dr. Sharabi have determined a plan that’s right for you, she’ll walk you through the benefits, limitations, and any potential risks of the procedure in a clear, understandable way. She also performs a comprehensive physical assessment, which may include:
- Evaluating the upper and lower eyelid skin to determine laxity
- Assessing fat pads and muscle tone
- Reviewing your vision concerns
- Discussing your aesthetic goals
- Reviewing allergies, medical conditions, and any medications that you are currently taking
- Understanding your surgical history
- Evaluating eyebrow position and overall facial balance
Female Plastic Surgeon
Why Choose Dr. Safa Sharabi for Your Eyelid Surgery in Santa Monica, CA
Dr. Safa Sharabi brings nearly a decade of specialized surgical expertise to her eyelid procedures. Her training at MD Anderson Cancer Center and a decade of post-training experience shaped her meticulous approach to delicate anatomy, symmetry, and natural-looking results. She has had the honor of caring for a diverse range of patients and refining her ability to tailor each procedure according to the individual.
Because it deals with the eyes, blepharoplasty demands exceptional finesse. The eyelids are among the most expressive and intricate structures of the face. Dr. Sharabi’s background in high-precision surgery gives her a unique advantage. She understands how subtle adjustments in skin, muscle, and fat can dramatically influence expression and facial harmony. Her goal is always to create balance without changing the essence of who you are.
What truly sets Dr. Sharabi apart is her philosophy. She doesn’t believe in pushing procedures on patients or rushing decisions. Rather, she listens and asks thoughtful questions to gain a better understanding of what you’re trying to achieve. She considers your health, emotional readiness, and your long-term well-being before recommending any treatment. If eyelid surgery is the right step for you, she’ll tell you with honesty and clarity, because your safety and satisfaction matter more than anything else.
How Blepharoplasty Is Performed with Dr. Safa Sharabi
On the day of your blepharoplasty, you’ll arrive about an hour before your treatment to meet with Dr. Sharabi. Because most eyelid surgeries are comfortably and safely performed using local anesthesia, you’ll remain relaxed and at ease while avoiding the longer recovery associated with general anesthesia. Dr. Sharabi will review your surgical plan, answer any last-minute questions, and ensure you feel fully supported before heading into the procedure.
Every eyelid surgery is uniquely structured, and the technique Dr. Sharabi uses will depend on your anatomy, concerns, and aesthetic goals, all of which will be discussed in detail during your consultation. Once you’re comfortable, she begins by making precise, well-concealed incisions along the natural eyelid creases for upper blepharoplasty or just inside the lower eyelid or beneath the lash line for lower blepharoplasty. She uses these incisions to remove or reposition excess skin and fat while keeping scars virtually invisible.
Depending on your needs, Dr. Sharabi may incorporate additional refinements, such as smoothing the eyelid-cheek junction, tightening the underlying muscle, or redistributing fat pads to create a more rested appearance. Her approach is always conservative and designed to refresh your eyes rather than altering your unique facial movements. A blepharoplasty can take one to two hours, depending on the extent of the treatment. Regardless, Dr. Sharabi’s focus remains on delivering safe, elegant, and lasting results.
Blepharoplasty Recovery
Healing after blepharoplasty is a gradual, gentle process, and giving your body enough time to rest is essential for the results you want. Most patients experience swelling, bruising, mild tightness, and a sensation of heaviness around their eyes during the first several days. Your eyelids may feel tender or watery, and it’s common to have temporary light sensitivity or blurred vision as the tissues settle.
To help manage any early discomfort, Dr. Sharabi will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions tailored to your procedure, along with appropriate medications to ease soreness and reduce inflammation. Cold compresses, head elevation, and careful incision care play an important role in minimizing swelling and supporting your comfort during recovery. You’ll also receive guidance on when to resume skincare, makeup, and contact lens use to protect your healing eyelids.
Most people take about one week off work for initial rest and healing. Strenuous activity will need to be avoided for at least two to three weeks or until the incisions are fully healed to avoid infections or excess irritation. When cleansing your skin, use warm water with a mild soap approved by Dr. Sharabi and pat the areas dry. As swelling continues to fade over the following weeks, your eyes will gradually appear brighter and more refreshed.
Schedule Your Santa Monica Blepharoplasty Consultation with Dr. Safa Sharabi Today
If your eyes no longer reflect the energy, clarity, or confidence you feel inside, a refreshed, natural look is closer than you think. Dr. Safa Sharabi has helped countless patients reclaim a brighter, more awake appearance through meticulous eyelid surgery rooted in precision, artistry, and compassion. With nearly a decade of specialized surgical experience and a reputation for truly listening, she’s the trusted partner you can rely on.
Schedule your consultation by calling (310) 692-8626 or by completing our online form, and take the first step toward eyes that look as vibrant and expressive as you feel.
Blepharoplasty FAQS
How long do blepharoplasty results last?
Blepharoplasty results are long‑lasting, and many patients enjoy their refreshed appearance for 10 to 15 years or more. While the natural aging process will inevitably continue, the improvements, such as removing excess skin and repositioning fat, are permanent. Most people find that even as they age, their eyes still look brighter and more open than before surgery.
Will blepharoplasty make my eyes look different or change my expression?
A well‑performed blepharoplasty should never change your fundamental appearance; rather, it should simply help you look more rested and vibrant. Dr. Sharabi takes a conservative, anatomy‑respecting approach that preserves your natural eye shape and expression. Her goal is to enhance what you already have, not alter your identity.
Can blepharoplasty help with vision problems caused by droopy eyelids?
Yes. For some patients, excess upper‑eyelid skin can weigh down the lids and obstruct the upper field of vision. By removing this extra skin and restoring a smoother contour, blepharoplasty can improve both appearance and function. During your consultation, Dr. Sharabi will evaluate whether your eyelid concerns are affecting your vision and discuss how surgery may help.
Is there a non‑surgical alternative to blepharoplasty?
Non‑surgical treatments, such as skin tightening, laser resurfacing, or injectable fillers, can offer mild improvements for early signs of aging around the eyes. However, they cannot remove excess skin or reposition fat pads the way surgery can. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, Dr. Sharabi will walk you through the benefits and limitations of each approach so that you can make a confident, informed decision.
When will I be able to wear makeup or contact lenses again after eyelid surgery?
Most patients can return to wearing eye makeup after about 10 to 14 days once the incisions have healed and swelling has improved. Contact lenses typically require a little more time, usually around two weeks, because the eyelids may feel tender or sensitive during early healing and shouldn’t be touched or pulled on, which is necessary when putting in contacts. Dr. Sharabi will give you personalized guidance based on your progress to ensure you resume these routines safely.