Locations in Chicago & Glenview, IL

Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
In Chicago & Glenview, IL

What is
Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty or an “eye lift,” is a cosmetic surgery procedure performed to improve the appearance of either the upper or lower eyelids. Blepharoplasty can also be performed for patients whose vision is impaired due to sagging, and excess skin of the upper eyelids. Eyelid surgery can correct drooping, bulging, or sagging eyelids that cause people to appear fatigued or much older than their actual age.

Eyelid Surgery can be performed on the top eyelids, bottom eyelids, or both, to improve the appearance of your eyes.

Dr. Rachel is a quadruple board-certified facial plastic surgeon with particular expertise in blepharoplasty. He also performs corrective eyelid surgery for correction of medical problems such as obstruction of the visual field (ptosis), dry eye syndrome, or lower eyelid sagging (malposition). When necessary, Dr. Rachel can perform cosmetic and corrective eyelid surgery together at the same time.

What is an
Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Most patients seek upper eyelid blepharoplasty to correct excess skin on their upper eyelid. The skin may fold onto the eyelashes and even interfere with vision. This is a minimally invasive surgery in most cases and can be done using local anesthetic alone or under IV sedation. An incision is made in the natural crease of the upper eyelid followed by the removal of excess skin and fat. Occasionally the underlying muscle has stretched out of shape and needs to be trimmed. Wounds are closed with a very fine suture, which can be removed in 5-7 days. Patients return to work the next day if they choose.

Before & After
Eyelid Surgery Results

Experience the difference for yourself—our before & after gallery showcases thousands of successful surgeries and satisfied patients. It’s no surprise that Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa surgeons are recognized among the top cosmetic plastic surgeons in Chicago, Illinois. See why so many trust us for their transformations.

What is a
Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Most patients seek lower eyelid blepharoplasty to correct baggy protrusions of the lower eyelids. Some patients also have excess skin that needs to be removed. This is a minimally invasive surgery in most cases and can be done using local anesthetic alone or under IV sedation. The surgery can be performed from within the lower eyelid so there are no visible scars (a transconjunctival blepharoplasty), or from the outside where the incision is placed in the crease just below the eyelashes where a scar will be camouflaged. Conservative fat removal can be performed with a laser and while patients avoid vigorous activities for a week, wounds usually heal in a matter of days.

Happy attractive confident young adult or mid aged European woman posing for beauty aesthetic portrait.

How Much Does
Eyelid Surgery Cost?

The cost of Eyelid Surgery will depend on several factors. The number of sessions will influence the final price, as will the severity of the cosmetic issues being addressed.

Schedule a Consultation

Schedule your consultation for Eyelid Surgery in Chicago – contact Dr. Rachel and set up your appointment. During your appointment, you will be able to ask questions and bring up any concerns you may have about the procedure. Contact us today to get the look you’ve always wanted!

Why Choose
Dr. Rachel

Dr. Rachel and staff

You want a clear recommendation, realistic expectations, and results that still look like you. At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago and Glenview, we start with an anatomy-led plan based on your goals. We’ll tell you what we think will work, what won’t, and why. We explain your options in plain language, including what we would not recommend, so you can feel confident with your decision.

Dr. John D. Rachel, MD, FACS is a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He is quadruple board-certified in Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery. He completed residency training in Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery at Wayne State/Detroit Medical Center and a Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery fellowship at the Beeson Cosmetic Surgery Institute. He has been in practice since 2001, is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), and has published peer-reviewed research in facial plastic surgery and skin rejuvenation.

Dr. Rachel and his team at Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago and Glenview

Frequently Asked Questions
Eyelid Surgery

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Am I a good candidate for Eyelid Surgery?

Ideal candidates for Eyelid Surgery have sagging skin and excess fat in the eyelids that create a tired appearance and may obstruct vision. Many patients who undergo the surgery are around 35 years of age or older.

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What other procedures can be performed in conjunction with Eyelid Surgery?

Several other cosmetic procedures may be safely performed at the same time as upper and/or lower Eyelid Surgery. These include skin resurfacing, facelift, necklift, brow or forehead lift, neck liposuction, fat grafting, or dermal filler injections.

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Where do you perform Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid Surgery is performed in the comfort of our in-office surgical suite.

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What type of anesthesia is used in Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid Surgery can be performed using local anesthesia with the patient awake or IV sedation.

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How long is the recovery after eyelid surgery?

Typically, patients undergoing eyelid surgery should plan for seven to ten days off work or other activities, as there will be some bruising and swelling. You can help speed recovery by applying ice and sleeping with your head elevated. Every patient is slightly different.

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How do you determine what surgical technique will be used in my Eyelid Surgery?

Only a personal evaluation of the condition of your eyes will allow us to determine what surgical procedure will produce the most improvement. Some patients need the muscular structure above the eyes tightened, some require removing excess eyelid skin, and others have bags or deep tear troughs that may need attention.

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Why do some people who had Eyelid Surgery look unnatural?

When Eyelid Surgery has performed too aggressively, the quantity of excess skin removed can leave your eyes looking strange and wide-eyed, or slanted unnaturally. It is imperative that your cosmetic surgeon is familiar with the surgery and understands facial muscle structure thoroughly to create a fresh, youthful look that appears fully natural.

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How Long Does Eyelid Surgery take to perform?

The surgery itself requires about one to three hours, depending upon the extent of correction needed.

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Will I have scars after my Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid Surgery requiring the removal of excess eyelid skin involves an external skin incision. These skin incisions are made in the natural creases of the upper and lower eyelids. By placing the incisions in the natural creases of the lids, the surgical scars are well concealed and barely visible once healed. Patients who require only excess fat removal from the lower lid can have the incisions placed on the inside of the lower eyelid, resulting in no visible scarring.

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Is eyelid surgery performed on men, as well as women?

Yes, eyelid surgery is a common procedure requested by our male patients. Eyelid surgery helps to rejuvenate the eyes, making our male patients appear more refreshed and well rested.

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Can Eyelid Surgery correct the “crow’s feet”?

Eyelid Surgery will not improve “crow’s feet”. These fine wrinkles along the sides of the eye are caused by the overactivity of the muscle surrounding the eye. “Crow’s feet” are best treated with neurotoxins. These weaken the overactive muscle, resulting in the correction of “crow’s feet”. Botox and Dysport is a quick, safe, and effective treatment that can be performed in the office with no “downtime” required.

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Will my sagging eyebrows be Improved with Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid Surgery addresses cosmetic issues involving the eyelids only. It will not provide improvement for aging or sagging brows. It is very common to perform forehead/brow surgery at the same time as Eyelid Surgery. A combination of an eyebrow lift and an Eyelid Surgery is an excellent combination of procedures that can provide total rejuvenation of the upper face and eyes.

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Will Eyelid Surgery treat a drooping eyelid?

A “drooping” upper eyelid is typically caused by a malfunction of the mechanics of the upper lid. This condition is termed ptosis. Ptosis repair can be performed at the same time as Eyelid Surgery.

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When can I wear my glasses after Eyelid Surgery?

Patients can wear their glasses immediately after eyelid surgery as long as the frames do not rest on the upper and lower eyelids.

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When can I wear my contact lenses after Eyelid Surgery?

Typically, patients wait at least 2 weeks after surgery to begin wearing their contact lenses. Patients are evaluated prior to being approved for contact lenses to make sure satisfactory healing and normal lid closure are present to prevent drying of the eye. Patients are also asked to carefully insert their lenses and to refrain from excessively “pulling” on their lids to prevent separation of their incisions.

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Is Eyelid Surgery covered by my insurance?

Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery is not covered by insurance, because it is elective surgery. In cases where there are functional eyelid problems, insurance may cover the functional part of the surgery, but the cosmetic Eyelid Surgery will not be covered.

Chicago Aesthetics
Reviews & Testimonials

Excellent4.8265 reviews
4.8
Excellent265 reviews
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Stamata “Tami” Georgas
October 8, 2026
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Exceptional Talent, Timeless Results, and Unmatched Expertise! When it comes to aesthetics, excellence is everything, and I can confidently say that Carol is truly in a league of her own. Her expertise, artistry, and meticulous attention to detail are simply unparalleled. She has an extraordinary ability to enhance natural beauty while maintaining elegance, balance, and sophistication. Her results are consistently flawless, refreshed, and beautifully understated — the true definition of timeless beauty. What makes Carol exceptional is not only her remarkable skill but also her integrity, professionalism, and genuine dedication to her clients. She understands that the finest aesthetic work is never obvious; it is effortlessly beautiful. Two decades of loyalty speak for themselves. I trust her implicitly and would never consider putting my face in anyone else’s hands. She is the epitome of excellence in aesthetic medicine, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. An absolute five-star experience, every single time!
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Danielle
October 7, 2026
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**⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Google Review** Stephanie was amazing! She did my laser hair removal treatment and made the entire experience so comfortable and easy. She was professional, knowledgeable, and took the time to answer all of my questions, which really put me at ease. The service was efficient, and I could tell she genuinely cared about providing great results and excellent customer care. I’m so happy with my experience and will definitely be coming back for future treatments. Highly recommend Stephanie to anyone considering laser hair removal!
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TG
October 7, 2026
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I have been coming to Carol for over 20 years, and that longevity truly speaks for itself. I continue to see her because she is incredibly educated, highly skilled, and genuinely listens to what you want and need. She takes the time to understand your goals and creates a plan that enhances your natural features in a way that feels authentic and balanced. Her work is beautiful, and refined. The results are always natural and confidence boosting. Beyond her talent, I trust her completely. After two decades, I can confidently say she is consistent, professional, and truly cares about her patients. If you're looking for perfection, Carol is definitely the person you should see! Highly recommended!
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Sam
October 2, 2026
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Alison and Tom are the best. They have a tailored approach and explain what and why they recommend treatments. I’m so excited to be working with them as I head into my bridal era - I know I will look my best with their help. 100000/10 recommend to everyone but especially brides 😃
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Neha Patel
September 22, 2026
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New update: I had a wonderful experience with Carol. She was professional, knowledgeable and paid attention to every detail to clearly explain my skin concerns. I’ll definitely be coming back! The moment I walked into the clinic I felt a happy, welcomed and professional setting. I had my Sofwave treatment with Alison Falada, Master Esthetician and Laser Specialist. She was nothing short of amazing! She was personable, knowledgeable, skilled and detailed throughout the entire experience. She took the time to thoroughly explain the entire process, addressed all of my my questions and concerns. Alison is an expert and provided great quality service! I love my results and can't wait to book my next appointment with her!
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Chris C
September 20, 2026
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Carol has been doing my Botox for the last few years. She is kind, easy to talk to, makes herself available and approachable! Always feel at ease when I come see her and she does great work, goes by so fast, we are always done before I even know it. Highly recommend visiting her.
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Anika Tylek
September 19, 2026
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Tom's kindness and incredible knowledge make it easy for me to trust him with my procedures. I cannot recommend him enough! I've had a great experience with him and will absolutely continue seeing him!
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Ruby Kelly
September 18, 2026
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I’ve been seeing Carol for Botox for over two years, and she is absolutely amazing! I trust her completely with my face. She always takes the time to listen to what I want and makes sure my results look natural and beautiful—she never overdoes it. I especially appreciate how honest she is; she will tell you when you don’t need something rather than trying to sell you more treatments. Carol truly cares about her patients and always makes me feel comfortable, welcomed, and at home. She is professional, knowledgeable, gentle, and incredibly attentive. I always leave feeling confident and happy with my results. It’s hard to find someone you can trust this much, and I’m so grateful I found Carol.
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Nathaly Acuna
September 18, 2026
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Everyone from the Doctors to staff, are amazingly professional and so sweet! Dr. Rachael’s knowledge and bedside manner make you feel so comfortable and at ease. I can’t recommend them enough!
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Carson Getz
September 17, 2026
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Had a great experience with Stephanie for my HydraFacial. She was super knowledgeable and taught me how to maintain that healthy, youthful skin I'm working so hard to hold onto. She made this experience comfortable, professional and genuinely enjoyable. Thank you Stephanie!

Conditions We Treat

At Chicago Aesthetic Surgery & Med Spa, we know that your goals are personal and your concerns are unique. View our complete guide to the most common concerns we treat and the solutions that deliver safe, natural-looking results.

We offer surgical & Non-Surgical
Services

At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa, our team of board-certified cosmetic & plastic surgeons are renowned for their extensive training, unparalleled experience, and dedication to surgical artistry. Our entire staff is committed to helping you elevate your natural beauty and making your transformation journey one of the best decisions you'll ever make.

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About Us

Enhance your natural beauty with personalized skin, body, and wellness treatments from Chicago’s trusted med spa, led by Dr. John D. Rachel.