The eyes are often the first thing people notice, and the first place time tends to leave its mark. Sagging upper lids, puffiness beneath the eyes, or droopy corners can add years to your expression, even when you're rested. At Locketz Facial Plastic Surgery in Denver, CO, blepharoplasty isn’t just about looking less tired. It’s about restoring the natural structure of your eyelids to match how you feel inside: alert, energized, and at ease in your skin.
Dr. Garrett Locketz, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, performs both upper eyelid blepharoplasty and lower eyelid surgery using a precise, anatomy-informed approach that protects function while enhancing form. Every move is subtle. Every decision is based on your unique eyelid anatomy, skin texture, and the way your eyes relate to your overall facial appearance.
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Blepharoplasty, often referred to as eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance—and sometimes function—of the upper and lower eyelids. Over time, the natural aging process leads to excess skin, fat displacement, and muscle weakness in the eyelids. This can cause visual obstruction, deep creases, under-eye bags, and a general look of fatigue.
Upper eyelid surgery typically focuses on removing drooping skin and restoring the natural crease of the lid. In contrast, lower eyelid blepharoplasty aims to smooth puffiness and reposition fat pads to minimize shadows and dark circles.
For some patients, eyelid ptosis (muscle laxity) may need to be addressed during surgery. In these cases, a combined functional and aesthetic approach is taken.
When skin above the eyes becomes redundant, it can fold over the lash line or give the eyes a hooded, tired appearance. In some cases, this interferes with vision, especially in the outer field. Upper blepharoplasty carefully removes excess skin and, if needed, tightens underlying muscle and repositions fat.
Incisions are typically placed in the natural crease of the upper eyelid, where they heal discreetly. The result is smoother, more visible upper lids and a more open gaze—often making the entire face look more energized.
For some patients, Dr. Locketz may recommend combining this with a brow lift if the droop originates in the forehead rather than the eyelid itself.
The lower eyelids are more complex and more delicate. Fat pads that once cushioned the eyes can push forward or sink downward, creating bags or dark circles. Lower blepharoplasty may involve:
Dr. Locketz uses a transconjunctival approach (from inside the eyelid) when possible to avoid visible scarring. Every surgical plan is based on a close assessment of anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Most patients describe the outcome of blepharoplasty as a shift not just in how they look, but in how they feel, showing up in the world.
Improvements include:
Results are often long-lasting and can delay or reduce the need for future procedures.
Most patients are adults noticing a disconnect between how they feel and what they see in the mirror. If drooping eyelids, under-eye puffiness, or sagging lower lid skin are altering your facial structure or making you appear constantly tired, blepharoplasty may help.
Candidates should be in good general health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations. Some are referred for reconstructive surgery after trauma or Mohs surgery, while others are exploring cosmetic enhancements as part of a larger facial rejuvenation plan.
Dr. Locketz will assess your medical history, current medications, eye health, and eyelid anatomy. Photos and measurements are taken to plan a custom approach. This consultation also explores whether you might benefit from complementary procedures, like a brow lift, forehead lift, or dermal fillers to the tear troughs.
In a city like Denver, where the sun is strong and the altitude intensifies signs of facial aging, maintaining a refreshed look without compromising eye function is key. Blepharoplasty surgery offers patients a path to clearer vision, smoother eyelid skin, and more confident interactions.
Whether the goal is improved peripheral vision or a subtle shift in how you appear on video calls and in person, this procedure delivers real, visible change
Performed under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia depending on the case, blepharoplasty is typically an outpatient procedure.
For upper eyelid surgery, Dr. Locketz creates a hidden incision along the natural crease, removes excess skin, and repositions fat and muscle for better support. For the lower lids, he adjusts underlying bone and fat pads to create natural contours and minimize shadows.
The procedure may take one to two hours and is often paired with other facial rejuvenation procedures for optimal balance.
Recovery looks different for every patient, but most experience swelling and bruising that gradually subsides within the first five to ten days. Stitches, if placed externally, are typically removed within a week. You’ll likely feel comfortable resuming light activities after about a week, but anything more strenuous should wait at least two to three weeks to allow proper healing.
Cold compresses can help reduce inflammation during the early days, and Dr. Locketz will provide clear pain management guidance tailored to your procedure and comfort level. Keeping your head elevated while resting is another simple but effective way to encourage faster recovery. Most patients begin to notice a refreshed, smoother facial profile within a few weeks, and many report feeling more like themselves even before the swelling has fully resolved.
The results speak softly but clearly. Eyes look brighter. Expressions read less harsh. Makeup sits better.
Over time, the scar blends into the lid and lash lines. Your natural appearance is preserved—even enhanced—with less visual bulk and better lid support.
While the natural aging process continues, the improvements are long-lasting. Most patients experience results that last ten years or more, especially when combined with sun protection and regular skin maintenance.
Unlike generic eyelid lifts that take a one-size-fits-all approach, Dr. Locketz designs each procedure based on structural nuance. His training in both facial plastic and reconstructive surgery allows him to refine the eyes while protecting the natural architecture and avoiding hollowness, asymmetry, or stiffness. His outcomes prioritize expression, subtlety, and harmony, not just removal.
The cost of eyelid lift surgery in Denver varies depending on whether you undergo upper, lower, or combined procedures, the type of anesthesia used, and if any adjunct treatments are included.
As a general range:
Financing options and transparent quotes are available after consultation.
If your eyes no longer reflect how awake and engaged you feel, it may be time to consider blepharoplasty in Denver. At Locketz Facial Plastic Surgery, your eyelids are treated with care, skill, and a precise sense of proportion. Contact us to schedule a personal consultation.
Yes—removing drooping skin from the upper eyelids can restore peripheral vision blocked by sagging tissue.
Discomfort is typically mild and well-controlled with medications. Most patients say recovery is easier than expected.
They’re often used interchangeably. However, an eyelid lift may refer to non-surgical treatments, while blepharoplasty surgery is always surgical.
Yes, but non-surgical treatments like dermal fillers only address certain issues. They can’t remove excess fat or skin.
An oculoplastic surgeon or board-certified surgeon with experience in aesthetic plastic surgery of the face and eyes.
Yes. Many patients combine eyelid surgery with a brow lift, forehead lift, or facial rejuvenation procedures for broader improvements.
Dr. Locketz has experience with reconstructive surgery post-Mohs. He can assess whether blepharoplasty is appropriate after healing.
Absolutely. The goal is to look like yourself, just less heavy around the eyes. The incisions are hidden and the contours remain soft.
Initial results are visible after swelling resolves. Full healing and scar fading may take several months.
Be honest about your medical history and any issues like scarring or delayed healing. This helps shape the safest plan for you.
