Blepharoplasty risks & complications
An honest look at what can go wrong with blepharoplasty, how often, and how to protect yourself.
Every procedure carries risk. Most complications from blepharoplasty are uncommon, minor, and resolve with conservative management — but informed consent means understanding the full picture before you decide.
Documented risks for blepharoplasty
Dry eye, especially temporary
common; usually resolves in weeks
Asymmetry between eyes
minor in 5–10% of cases
Lower-lid retraction (ectropion)
rare with experienced surgeons
Visible scarring
rare; incisions hide in the natural eyelid crease
How to reduce your personal risk
- Choose a board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeon.
- Stop nicotine in any form for at least 4 weeks pre/post-op.
- Disclose every medication and supplement to your surgical team.
- Follow pre-op fasting and post-op activity restrictions exactly.
- Keep follow-up appointments — early detection means easy fixes.
By the numbers
352,000
annual US blepharoplasty cases
ASPS 2024
$4,200
national average surgeon fee
This page is general education, not medical advice. Risk estimates vary by patient factors, surgeon experience, and technique — discuss your specifics with a qualified surgeon.