What Is Awake Upper Blepharoplasty?

Awake upper blepharoplasty is a procedure performed under local anesthesia to remove excess skin, muscle, or fat from the upper eyelids. The technique addresses both cosmetic and functional concerns, such as drooping lids or heaviness, while maintaining the patient’s natural eye shape and expression.

Unlike traditional surgery under full sedation, the awake method allows patients to remain conscious and relaxed throughout the procedure. This in-office approach reduces downtime, minimizes risk, and provides an enhanced sense of comfort and control.

As detailed in Dr. Lattman’s recently published article in ScienceDirect, careful patient selection and pre-operative evaluation are key to ensuring a safe and positive experience. During the consultation process, Dr. Lattman takes the time to assess each patient’s anatomy, comfort level, and goals before recommending the best approach for their needs.

The Advantages of Staying Awake During Eyelid Surgery

For many patients, the idea of remaining awake during surgery sounds surprising at first, but the benefits are significant.

1. Lower Risk, Greater Safety
Awake blepharoplasty uses local anesthesia provides targeted numbing around the eyelids, ensuring a completely pain-free experience.

2. Faster Recovery and Less Downtime
Since there is no systemic sedation, recovery begins immediately after surgery. Most patients return home shortly afterward and resume light activity within a few days.

3. Comfort in a Familiar Setting
The procedure takes place in Dr. Lattman’s fully accredited, state-of-the-art surgical center, where patients are surrounded by a highly trained, compassionate team they already know.

Patients often describe the experience as “surprisingly easy” and say they appreciate how present and calm Dr. Lattman keeps them throughout. Her gentle, reassuring communication style helps even nervous patients feel safe and confident.

How NYC Awake Upper Eyelid Surgery Works

The process begins with meticulous pre-operative planning. While seated upright, patients have delicate markings placed to outline the natural eyelid crease. The area is then numbed using local anesthesia, which takes effect within minutes.

Once fully comfortable, Dr. Lattman removes the precise amount of excess skin and fat needed to restore a smooth, lifted contour to the upper eyelids. Her technique, honed through more than 27 years as an oculoplastic surgeon, prioritizes both aesthetic beauty and functional safety to ensure the eyes close properly and the shape remains natural.

Tiny sutures are placed along the eyelid crease, where they are virtually invisible. The entire procedure typically takes less than an hour, and patients are able to return home the same day.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Awake Eyelid Surgery in NYC?

Awake upper blepharoplasty is ideal for patients with mild to moderate eyelid laxity who want a rejuvenated, natural look without the downtime of general anesthesia.

Good candidates include individuals who:

 

• • Can remain still and relaxed during the procedure

• • Have minimal anxiety about being awake

• • Are in good overall health

• • Have realistic expectations for their results

During your consultation, Dr. Lattman will carefully evaluate your anatomy, medical history, and comfort level to determine whether an awake approach is best for you. If mild sedation or an alternative plan would ensure a better experience, she will discuss those options openly and honestly.

Recovery After Awake Blepharoplasty

Recovery from awake upper blepharoplasty is typically smooth and manageable. Most patients experience only mild swelling and bruising for the first several days. Icing, gentle wound care, and rest are recommended during this time.

Patients often return to light activity within three to five days and to social or work settings in about a week. Since there is no general anesthesia involved, many find they feel alert and clear-headed immediately after surgery.

Dr. Lattman and her team provide personalized follow-up care and remain available every step of the way. As one patient shared, “I never felt alone during recovery; Dr. Lattman checked in personally and made sure I was comfortable every step of the way.”

Upper Eyelid Surgery While Awake – Results That Look Effortless

Awake blepharoplasty achieves the same level of artistry and refinement as traditional eyelid surgery, often with faster recovery and less disruption. The outcome is subtle yet transformative: eyes that look brighter, smoother, and more rested, while remaining unmistakably yours.

Dr. Lattman’s patients often describe hearing compliments like, “You look amazing; did you just get back from vacation?” The change is noticeable, but never obvious. Her results speak to her philosophy: rejuvenation that restores confidence, not recognition.

Why Choose Dr. Jessica Lattman for Awake Eyelid Surgery in NYC

Choosing a surgeon for eyelid surgery is one of the most important decisions you can make. The eyes are delicate, expressive, and central to your identity, and they deserve the hands of a true specialist.

Dr. Jessica Lattman is a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon who has dedicated her career exclusively to cosmetic and reconstructive eyelid surgery. Her dual training in ophthalmology and facial aesthetics gives her a unique understanding of how to preserve eye health while enhancing beauty.

Every consultation is performed personally by Dr. Lattman. She listens carefully to each patient’s concerns, explains every step clearly, and ensures that they feel confident in their choice. Her reputation extends far beyond New York City, with patients traveling from across the U.S. and internationally for her expertise, warmth, and natural results.

Her reviews consistently reflect the same experience: expert care, compassionate communication, and results that exceed expectations.

Awake Upper Blepharoplasty: A Modern, Patient-Centered Approach

If you’ve been considering eyelid surgery and want to learn whether you’re a candidate for the awake approach, we invite you to contact our office today. Call (212) 832-5456 or contact us online to schedule your private consultation today. Dr. Lattman is well-known for her unmatched expertise and standard of care. She and our staff look forward to hearing from you!

Awake Eyelid Surgery in NYC – FAQs

How long does awake blepharoplasty take?
Most awake upper eyelid surgeries take about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the case.

Will I be able to drive myself home after awake eyelid surgery?
If you receive a mild sedative, such as a benzodiazepine, you’ll need someone to drive you home. Patients who have only local anesthesia and feel completely comfortable can usually go home without an escort.

Can I combine upper blepharoplasty with other treatments?
Yes. Dr. Lattman may combine upper blepharoplasty with complementary procedures, such as laser skin resurfacing, brow lift, or non-surgical treatments, for a more comprehensive result.

When can I return to wearing contact lenses?
Patients should wait about two weeks before resuming contact lens wear to allow the eyelids to heal fully.

Are the results permanent?
While eyelid aging continues naturally over time, most patients enjoy their results for 15 to 20 years or longer. Maintaining good skin care and overall health helps preserve the refreshed appearance.