Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in Columbia, Maryland
Your eyes are usually the first thing people notice — and honestly, they’re often the first thing to give away that you’re not getting enough sleep, even when you feel completely fine. Drooping upper eyelids, puffy under-eye bags, and loose skin around the eyes can make you look tired or older than you actually are, and no amount of concealer really fixes that.
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Eyelid surgery — the clinical term is blepharoplasty — is one of the most reliably effective procedures for this area. It’s consistently in the top five most performed cosmetic surgeries in the country every year, and for good reason: when it’s done well, the results look
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completely natural.
Dr. Sarah Mess has been performing blepharoplasty in Columbia, Maryland for over 20 years. Her approach is precise and tailored to your specific anatomy — the goal is always to look like yourself, just more rested. Whether you’re dealing with heavy upper lids, persistent under-eye bags, or both, she can walk you through what’s actually going to help and what will give you the result you’re after.
- What Is Eyelid Surgery?
- Who Is a Good Candidate for Blepharoplasty?
- Upper Eyelid Surgery
- Lower Eyelid Surgery
- The Blepharoplasty Procedure: What to Expect
- Recovery: What to Expect After Eyelid Surgery
- Combining Eyelid Surgery with Other Procedures
- Eyelid Surgery Results
- Why Choose Dr. Sarah Mess for Eyelid Surgery
- What to Expect at Your Consultation
- Patient Reviews and Before-and-After Photos
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Eyelid Surgery?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes or repositions excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. The goal is to restore a more youthful, open, and rested appearance to the eye area without altering your natural expression or identity.
There are two primary types of eyelid surgery:
- Upper blepharoplasty: Addresses sagging or hooded upper eyelids caused by excess skin that folds over the lash line. In some cases, severely drooping upper lids can obstruct peripheral vision, making this a functional as well as cosmetic procedure.
- Lower blepharoplasty: Targets puffiness, under-eye bags, and loose skin beneath the eyes. This can be performed through an external incision just below the lash line or via a transconjunctival approach (an incision inside the lower lid), which leaves no visible external scar.
Both procedures are typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you go home the same day.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Blepharoplasty?
Most people who come in for a blepharoplasty consultation are dealing with something pretty specific – a heaviness over the eyes they can’t shake, or bags that make them look exhausted no matter how much sleep they get. If any of the following sounds familiar, eyelid surgery might be worth exploring:
- Excess skin on the upper eyelids that creates a heavy or hooded appearance
- Upper eyelid skin that droops low enough to interfere with vision
- Persistent puffiness or fat deposits beneath the eyes
- Loose, crepey skin on the lower eyelids
- Deep hollows or shadowing under the eyes that make you look fatigued
- Loss of the natural
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Who is a good candidate for eyelid surgery?
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upper eyelid crease
Good candidates are generally in solid overall health, non-smokers (or willing to pause smoking before surgery), and have a realistic sense of what the procedure can and can’t do. Certain eye conditions like severe dry eye or glaucoma may affect candidacy, which is something Dr. Mess will go over with you during your consultation based on your specific anatomy and health history.
Upper Eyelid Surgery
Upper eyelid surgery removes excess skin and fat from the upper lids to create a more open, refreshed appearance – and it’s one of the more straightforward procedures Dr. Mess performs.
During the procedure, Dr. Mess makes a discreet incision along the natural crease of the upper eyelid, allowing her to remove or reposition excess skin and fat. Because the incision follows the natural fold of the lid, resulting scars are virtually invisible once healed.
The procedure typically takes 45 to 60 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia with or without light sedation. Most patients are comfortable throughout and return home shortly after.
Upper blepharoplasty can also address ptosis, a condition in which the eyelid droops due to weakened levator muscle function. When drooping is severe enough to obstruct the visual field, the procedure may qualify for insurance coverage. Dr. Mess will evaluate your specific anatomy and advise you accordingly during your consultation.
Lower Eyelid Surgery
Lower eyelid surgery targets the under-eye area, addressing bags, puffiness, and loose skin that contribute to a tired or aged appearance. Dr. Mess offers two approaches depending on your anatomy and goals:
- Transcutaneous (external) approach: An incision is made just below the lower lash line, allowing access to remove or redistribute fat and tighten loose skin. This approach is best suited for patients with significant skin laxity.
- Transconjunctival approach: The incision is placed on the inside of the lower eyelid, leaving no external scar. This technique is ideal for patients with good skin tone who primarily need fat removal or repositioning.
In some cases, fat grafting or a small amount of skin resurfacing may be combined with lower blepharoplasty to address fine lines and improve overall skin texture around the eye area.
The Blepharoplasty Procedure: What to Expect
Eyelid surgery at Dr. Mess’s Columbia, Maryland practice is performed in a private, accredited surgical setting. Here is a general overview of what to expect:
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with optional IV sedation or light general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure and patient preference
- Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours for combined upper and lower blepharoplasty; shorter for single-lid procedures
- Incision placement: Concealed within natural eyelid creases or inside the lower lid (transconjunctival)
- Fat and skin management: Excess fat is removed or repositioned; redundant skin and muscle are carefully trimmed
- Closure: Fine sutures are used to close incisions with precision
The procedure is outpatient, and most patients are ready to go home within a few hours of surgery.
As with any surgical procedure, blepharoplasty carries potential risks including temporary swelling, bruising, dryness, light sensitivity, and, in rare cases, asymmetry or changes in eyelid position. Dr. Mess will discuss all risks and how they are minimized during your consultation.
Recovery: What to Expect After Eyelid Surgery
Most patients recover from blepharoplasty within one to two weeks and describe the experience as much easier than they expected. Discomfort is generally mild and very manageable.
Week 1:
- Swelling and bruising are most pronounced in the first 48 to 72 hours
- Cold compresses help reduce swelling and improve comfort
- Sutures are typically removed within 5 to 7 days
- Avoid strenuous activity, bending, and heavy lifting
- Keep the head elevated to minimize swelling
Week 2:
- Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and light daily activities
- Residual swelling and mild bruising may still be visible but are easily concealed with makeup after sutures are removed
Weeks 3 to 6:
- Swelling continues to resolve; incision lines begin to fade
- Strenuous exercise and contact sports may be gradually resumed
Months 3 to 6:
- Final results become fully visible as all swelling resolves and scars mature
- Incision lines typically fade to a fine, barely visible line within the natural eyelid crease
Combining Eyelid Surgery with Other Procedures
Blepharoplasty is frequently performed alongside complementary facial procedures to achieve a more comprehensive rejuvenation. Common combinations include:
- Brow lift: Addresses forehead lines and drooping brows that can contribute to a heavy upper eyelid appearance. Combining a brow lift with upper blepharoplasty ensures the brow and lid are treated together for a harmonious result.
- Facelift: For patients seeking broader facial rejuvenation, a facelift can be performed at the same time as eyelid surgery to address the mid-face, jowls, and neck.
- Laser skin resurfacing: Improves fine lines, skin texture, and pigmentation around the eyes that surgery alone cannot address.
- BOTOX®: Can be used to soften crow’s feet and dynamic wrinkles around the eye area, complementing the structural improvements of blepharoplasty.
Dr. Mess will discuss which combination approach, if any, is appropriate for your goals during your consultation.
Eyelid Surgery Results
Blepharoplasty results are long-lasting – most patients enjoy them for 10 years or more – and they look completely natural when the procedure is done well.
The results of blepharoplasty are both immediate and progressive. Within the first one to two weeks, most patients notice a visible improvement in the eye area, even with residual swelling. As healing continues over the following months, the full transformation becomes apparent: a more open, alert, and youthful appearance that looks entirely natural.
Fat removal from the eyelids is permanent. While the aging process continues over time, results from blepharoplasty are long-lasting, with many patients enjoying their outcomes for 10 years or more. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, protecting the skin from sun exposure, and considering non-surgical maintenance treatments can help extend your results.
Why Choose Dr. Sarah Mess for Eyelid Surgery in Maryland
Dr. Sarah A. Mess is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience serving patients in Columbia, Baltimore, and throughout Maryland. She earned her medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and completed her plastic surgery residency at MedStar Health. She received advanced training at Georgetown University and Johns Hopkins, two of the most respected academic medical institutions in the country.
Dr. Mess is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (2007) and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). She has served as Plastic Surgery Section Chief at Howard County General Hospital and holds a part-time faculty appointment as an instructor at Johns Hopkins University, reflecting her commitment to surgical education and the advancement of her field.
She has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, a distinction awarded through peer nomination and independent review, and is affiliated with Sinai Hospital of Baltimore.
Her approach to blepharoplasty is rooted in precision and proportion. Every procedure is tailored to the individual patient’s anatomy, facial structure, and aesthetic goals, with a focus on results that look refreshed and natural, never overdone.
“The best eyelid surgery is the kind no one can quite put their finger on. Patients want to look like themselves, just more rested and more vibrant. That is always the goal,” says Dr. Mess.
What to Expect at Your Consultation
Your consultation with Dr. Mess is a private, unhurried appointment designed to help you make an informed decision. During this visit, Dr. Mess will:
- Review your medical history and any current eye conditions or medications
- Evaluate your eyelid anatomy, skin quality, and facial structure
- Discuss your aesthetic goals and what you hope to achieve
- Explain which procedure or combination of procedures is most appropriate for you
- Walk you through the surgical process, recovery timeline, and realistic outcomes
- Answer all of your questions about risks, costs, and what to expect before and after surgery
Patients are encouraged to bring a list of questions, any current medications, and photos of results they find appealing. Your consultation is the first step toward understanding exactly what’s possible for you.
Patient Reviews and Before-and-After Photos
Seeing real results from real patients is one of the most important steps in choosing a surgeon. Dr. Mess’s before-and-after gallery features a range of blepharoplasty cases, including upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, and combined procedures, so you can see the quality and consistency of her outcomes firsthand.
View More Blepharoplasty Patient Photos
Dr. Mess and her staff are the absolute best. Everyone is friendly and caring. They all want you to have the best experience ever. I had surgery in June, and have no complaints. The results are better than I expected, and any questions or concerns I have are addressed immediately. I don't have to wait days to get a response like other surgeons. I can send a text and have a response within hours. I will be going back for another surgery, and plan to have other procedures done in the future.
B.H. - Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Dr. Sarah Mess is an incredible person, and talented surgeon. She approached my case with great attention to detail and skill. I felt very comfortable, and had all of my questions answered prior to my surgery. I was in good hands from start to finish. Her staff is equally as fantastic. Professional, skilled, kind and caring. You will love your experience with Dr. Mess and her staff. Look no further.
L.D. - Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Dr. Sara Mess is simply an artist! Her meticulous attention to detail and ability to achieve such natural, beautiful results are truly remarkable. She doesn't just perform surgeries; she sculpts confidence. From the moment you meet her, Dr. Sara Mess exudes a perfect blend of warmth and unparalleled expertise. She genuinely listens, understands your vision, and then delivers with precision and care that's nothing short of outstanding. Highly, highly recommend!
F.A. - Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐I had an outstanding experience with Dr. Mess and her entire office staff. My procedure went seamlessly, and everything was clearly explained to me both beforehand and throughout the process. The staff is incredibly kind, professional, and a pleasure to work with.
J.C. - Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Frequently Asked Questions About Eyelid Surgery
How long do the results of blepharoplasty last?
Blepharoplasty results are long-lasting – most patients enjoy them for 10 years or more. The fat that’s removed during surgery is gone for good, and while the natural aging process continues, the structural improvements hold up
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What results should I expect after eyelid surgery?
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well over time.
Is eyelid surgery painful?
Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable recovery is. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and post-operative discomfort is usually mild – more tightness and swelling than actual pain. Over-the-counter or prescription medication keeps it well under control.
Will I have visible scars after eyelid surgery?
For upper blepharoplasty, incisions are placed right in the natural crease of the eyelid – once healed, they’re virtually invisible. For lower blepharoplasty, the transconjunctival approach leaves no external scar at all. External lower lid incisions (when needed) are placed just below the lash line and typically fade to a barely noticeable line within a few months.
How much does eyelid surgery cost in Maryland?
The cost varies depending on whether you’re treating upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, as well as anesthesia and facility fees. You’ll receive a personalized cost estimate during your consultation. Financing options are available.
Where can I find eyelid surgery near me in Maryland?
Dr. Sarah Mess performs blepharoplasty at her practice in Columbia, Maryland, conveniently located to serve patients throughout the state, including Baltimore, Ellicott City, Annapolis, Howard County, and surrounding areas. If you’re searching for eyelid surgery near you in Maryland, Dr. Mess offers personalized consultations to help you understand your options and determine the best approach for your goals.
Schedule Your Eyelid Surgery Consultation in Maryland
If you’re ready to address drooping eyelids, under-eye bags, or excess skin around your eyes, Dr. Sarah Mess is here to help. Serving patients in Columbia, Baltimore, and throughout Maryland, Dr. Mess offers personalized consultations to help you take the next step with confidence.
Contact us today to schedule your blepharoplasty consultation and discover what eyelid surgery can do for your appearance and your confidence.
Sources1 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 2024 Plastic Surgery Statistics. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2024/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2024.pdf. Accessed April 29, 2026.
2 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Who is a good candidate for eyelid surgery? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/eyelid-surgery/candidates. Accessed April 29, 2026.
3 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What results should I expect after eyelid surgery? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/eyelid-surgery/results. Accessed April 29, 2026.
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