Eyelid Surgery and Injectables: Should You Get Botox after Blepharoplasty?

botox or blepharoplasty
Eye close up - brown eyes looking to side isolated on white background. Mixed race Asian Caucasian woman looking sideways. Closeup of brown female eye.

The eyes may be the windows to the soul, but this delicate area is often the first to show signs of aging. Loose eyelid skin, wrinkles around the corners of the eyes and under-eye bags tend to develop as you get older. Blepharoplasty and Botox are two ways to restore a youthful eye appearance, and these surgical and non-surgical treatments, respectively, complement each other. Men and women who have eyelid surgery often follow up the procedure with Botox treatments for further eyelid rejuvenation. 

Our double board-certified plastic surgeon in LA, Dr. Melinda Lacerna, offers various facial plastic surgeries and cosmetic treatments and can help you determine if this combination of blepharoplasty and Botox is right for you. 

Blepharoplasty Vs. Botox 

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is an invasive procedure that improves problems with the upper and/or lower eyelids, including drooping eyelids, outstretched muscles, puffy under-eye bags and more. Dr. Lacerna expertly removes the excess eyelid skin and tightens the underlying structures for a more refreshed eyelid appearance. She will reposition the fat pockets and superficial tissues to reduce puffiness. 

Botox is a neuromodulator that reduces muscle movement to smoothen dynamic wrinkles caused by repeated facial expressions. The injectable is FDA-approved to improve vertical lines between the eyebrows, “crow’s feet” wrinkles on the eyes’ outer edges and horizontal forehead lines. Botox doesn’t affect the eyelids but can revitalize the appearance of the eye area by minimizing lines and wrinkles. 

Blepharoplasty and Botox work differently to combat signs of aging around the eyes, making them an excellent combination for improving lines and wrinkles and eyelid concerns. 

Why Have Botox After Blepharoplasty? 

Blepharoplasty can restore a younger eyelid appearance and renew your field of vision. This facial plastic surgery can eliminate that tired appearance plaguing people with saggy, puffy eyelids with long-lasting results, but it won’t address the surrounding wrinkles. Following your blepharoplasty procedure with Botox treatments can provide additional anti-aging benefits. You can enjoy a well-rested, refreshed look with smoother skin that takes years off your complexion.  

When to Have Botox After Blepharoplasty? 

There is no required waiting period for Botox after eyelid surgery, but it’s best to wait until you’ve healed fully. It takes up to six weeks for the tissues to adjust and heal after blepharoplasty. However, lower eyelid surgery requires more time for the muscles and tissues to recover, and some experts recommend waiting at least three months for follow-up treatment with Botox. 

Dr. Lacerna can determine the best time frame for Botox after your blepharoplasty during your post-op appointments. Botox results last three to four months, but maintenance treatments can provide long-term wrinkle improvement. 

If you’re interested in blepharoplasty and Botox, contact LA Plastic Surgery & Dermatology to schedule your consultation with Dr. Lacerna. Call (941) 954-4500 or fill out our online contact form