What to Know About Eyelid Surgery Atlanta: A Complete Guide to Blepharoplasty at PSI Atlanta

When your eyes start to show the signs of age — drooping lids, puffiness, or under-eye bags — it’s natural to look for a lasting solution. Eyelid surgery Atlanta, also called blepharoplasty, is one of the most effective ways to refresh your appearance and restore a more alert, youthful look. At the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, under Dr. Paul McCluskey, this procedure is approached with both artistry and precision. Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of what eyelid surgery in Atlanta is, who is a good candidate, how the process works, benefits, risks, and tips to prepare and recover well.

What Is Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)?

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, targets excess skin, fat, and tissue around the upper and lower eyelids to create a more rejuvenated, rested, and less tired appearance. At PSI Atlanta, the procedure can address:

• Sagging or drooping upper eyelids

• Bags or puffiness in the lower eyelids

• Loose or wrinkled lower eyelid skin

• Excess skin obscuring the natural lid crease

This procedure is tailored depending on which eyelids need correction — the upper lids, lower lids, or both. 

Who Is a Candidate for Eyelid Surgery in Atlanta?

Not everyone with aging around the eyes needs blepharoplasty, but here are signs that you might benefit:

• You consistently appear fatigued or your eyelids rest low on your eyes

• Excess upper eyelid skin interferes with your field of vision

• You have puffiness, bags, or dark circles under your eyes

• Lower eyelid skin is loose or sagging

• You are in good overall health and have realistic expectations

During a consultation, Dr. McCluskey will evaluate your skin quality, eyelid structure, and facial proportions to recommend whether upper, lower, or combined eyelid surgery is right for you.

Key Benefits of Eyelid Surgery Atlanta

Undergoing eyelid surgery offers both aesthetic and functional gains:

• Reduces puffiness in the upper or lower eyelids

• Removes or lessens under-eye bags

• Tightens loose skin and smooths wrinkles

• Provides a refreshed, more youthful eye area

• Restores tissue after skin cancer removal around the eyes

• Can improve vision if sagging eyelids obstruct sightlines

These benefits make blepharoplasty one of the most satisfying facial rejuvenation procedures for many patients. 

What to Expect: Procedure & Technique

One of the advantages of eyelid surgery at PSI Atlanta is that it is relatively straightforward and typically performed in-office under local anesthesia. 

Here is a step-by-step of what generally happens:

1. Anesthesia & Preparation
   The surgeon uses local anesthesia to numb the eyelid area, ensuring comfort without the need for full general anesthesia.

2. Incisions

   • For upper eyelids, incisions are hidden within the crease of the upper lid

   • For lower eyelids, incisions are made just below the lash line, or internally (depending on the method)

3. Removal / Repositioning
   Excess skin, muscle, or fat is either removed or repositioned to smooth the eyelid contour.

4. Closure
   Incisions are closed with very fine sutures, placed to minimize visible scarring.

5. Adjunct Procedures (Optional)
   Eyelid surgery may be combined with other facial rejuvenation techniques like brow lift, Botox, or other skin treatments, depending on your goals. 

Typically, the entire procedure takes about an hour, though the exact time depends on whether one or both eyelids are treated. 

Preparing for Eyelid Surgery

To get ready for eyelid surgery in Atlanta, patients should:

• Undergo a thorough medical evaluation and share full medical history

• Discontinue blood thinners, smoking, or medications that increase bleeding risk (as advised by your surgeon)

• Arrange for someone to drive you home and assist during the first day or two

• Follow any preoperative instructions from the surgical team (such as fasting, skin cleaning, etc.)

Good preparation helps reduce complications and supports smoother recovery.

Recovery: What to Expect After Surgery

Recovery varies by person but here’s a typical timeline:

• First 1–3 days: Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are most noticeable

• Day 4–7: Sutures are often removed (for external incisions), swelling begins to subside

• Week 1–2: Many patients feel comfortable returning to light daily activities

• Week 4–6: Final results start to emerge as residual swelling fades

Some things to keep in mind:

• Keep the head elevated and apply cold compresses as advised

• Avoid strenuous exercise until cleared by your surgeon

• Protect your eyes from sun, wind, and intense light

• Use prescribed eye drops or ointments to keep eyes moist and aid healing

Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions and monitor your healing progress.

Risks & Considerations

Though eyelid surgery is generally safe, it’s important to understand potential risks:

• Dry eyes or irritation

• Temporary blurry or double vision

• Difficulty closing the eyelids fully (rare)

• Asymmetric results or contour irregularities

• Infection, bleeding, or poor wound healing

• Visible scarring (minimized with good technique)

Choosing a skilled, experienced surgeon and carefully following post-op instructions helps reduce these risks.

Why Choose PSI Atlanta for Eyelid Surgery?

The Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta is led by Dr. Paul McCluskey, whose practice emphasizes combining aesthetic vision with surgical safety. 

What sets PSI apart:

• Expert surgical planning and anatomical understanding

• In-office procedures under controlled, local anesthesia

• Options for combining eyelid surgery with complementary procedures

• Focus on natural, proportionate outcomes tailored to each patient

If you’re considering eyelid surgery Atlanta, PSI provides a comprehensive and patient‐focused environment to explore your options and proceed confidently.

Final Thoughts

Eyelid surgery in Atlanta can deliver transformative improvements to your eyes — diminishing puffiness, lifting sagging lids, and restoring a more vibrant, youthful appearance. With proper candidate selection, realistic expectations, and attention to recovery, it is one of the most rewarding facial rejuvenation procedures. If your eyes have begun to look fatigued or heavy, arranging a consultation at the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta is an excellent first step to see whether blepharoplasty might be right for you.