Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in Evansville, IN

Board-Certified Surgeon Serving Newburgh, Henderson, & Vanderburgh County

The eyes are among the first features others notice — and among the first to show the effects of aging. Drooping upper eyelids, under-eye bags, and loose lower lid skin can create an appearance of fatigue, sadness, or age that simply doesn't reflect how you feel. Eyelid surgery at Conkright Aesthetics addresses these concerns with precision and artistry — restoring a more rested, alert, and naturally youthful appearance.

At Conkright Aesthetics, Dr. J. Michael Conkright offers the full spectrum of eyelid rejuvenation — from surgical blepharoplasty for patients seeking definitive, long-lasting correction, to minimally invasive AccuTite from the InMode SkinTite platform for patients who want meaningful upper and lower lid improvement without surgery. This range of options allows Dr. Conkright to match the right approach to each patient's anatomy, goals, and degree of change desired — a depth of capability that very few practices in this region can offer.

Woman with short blonde hair examining her face in mirror checking for signs of aging and wrinkles - Eyelid surgery in Evansville, IN

What Is Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)?

Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic procedure designed to refresh the appearance of the eyelids — addressing concerns caused by aging, gravity, and weakened supporting muscles and tissues. It can correct:

  • Drooping upper eyelids — reducing a tired or heavy appearance and potentially improving peripheral vision
  • Puffy eyes or under-eye bags — caused by excess fatty deposits beneath the skin
  • Loose or excess skin — eliminating folds and fine wrinkles around the eyes
  • Drooping lower eyelids — correcting a hollow or aged appearance

The procedure can target the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both — removing or repositioning excess skin and fat to achieve a smoother, more youthful contour. Eyelid surgery is frequently combined with complementary procedures such as facial fat transfer, Morpheus8, or AccuTite to enhance and extend the overall rejuvenation result.

Upper eyelid surgery involves small incisions made within the natural folds of the upper eyelids — positioned to minimize visible scarring. Through these incisions, Dr. Conkright removes loose skin, firms the underlying muscle and tissue layers, eliminates excess fat, and creates a smoother, more youthful-looking upper eyelid contour.

Awake Eyelid Surgery

Many of Dr. Conkright's patients choose to undergo eyelid surgery as an "awake" procedure — performed under local anesthesia with tumescent technique and/or mild sedation, without general anesthesia.

Benefits of awake blepharoplasty include:

  • Preserves brain function and physiology
  • Minimizes risks associated with general anesthesia
  • Accelerated recovery
  • Highly precise and effective
  • Long-lasting, transformative results

Eyelid Surgery Quick Facts

  • Surgery Time: 1–3 hours depending on the extent of the procedure
  • Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with tumescent technique and/or mild sedation; general anesthesia available when indicated
  • Recovery: Significant swelling and bruising typically subside within 7–10 days; full recovery several weeks
  • Results: Initial improvement visible within weeks; full results apparent within 2–3 months
Doctor James Michael Conkright MD in black scrubs consulting with patient across desk in clinical setting - in Evansville, IN

What Are the Benefits of Eyelid Surgery?

When performed with precision and artistry by Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Conkright, eyelid surgery delivers:

  • Restoration of taut, youthful skin around the eyes
  • Elimination of drooping upper eyelids
  • Restoration of peripheral field of vision when upper lid laxity is a contributing factor
  • Firming of underlying muscle and tissue layers
  • Elimination of excess fat and under-eye bags
  • A more inviting, energized, and rested facial expression
  • Long-lasting, natural-looking results
  • Restored self-confidence

Who Are the Best Candidates for Eyelid Surgery?

Good candidates for blepharoplasty are individuals in good overall health with realistic expectations. Ideal candidates often experience:

  • Excess skin obscuring the upper eyelid's natural fold or affecting peripheral vision
  • Puffiness in the upper or lower eyelids from excess fat
  • Under-eye bags or dark circles
  • Drooping lower eyelids

A note on realistic expectations: Dr. Conkright and his team will do everything possible to thoroughly assess your goals and provide a realistic, personalized surgical plan. Not every concern around the eye area is best addressed through surgery alone — Dr. Conkright will provide honest guidance about whether surgical blepharoplasty, minimally invasive AccuTite, or a combination approach is most appropriate for your anatomy and goals.

Female healthcare professional in white coat consulting with patient at desk in medical office - first step in Evansville, IN

How to Begin Your Eyelid Surgery Journey

Your eyelid surgery journey begins with a private consultation at Conkright Aesthetics. During your visit, you can expect:

  1. A thorough medical evaluation including a review of current medications, allergies, and existing conditions
  2. A physical assessment of your upper facial anatomy — including brow position, eyelid position, and lower lid and cheek anatomy
  3. A detailed discussion of your goals and aesthetic concerns
  4. Clear, transparent information about the procedure, its risks, recovery, and expected outcomes
  5. A customized surgical plan tailored to your anatomy and goals
  6. Pre-operative preparation instructions

5 Steps to Prepare for Eyelid Surgery

  • Achieve Medical Clearance: Dr. Conkright may request lab testing to confirm you are in good overall health for surgery
  • Discontinue Certain Medications: Avoid blood thinners, certain supplements, and anti-inflammatory medications as directed, as these can increase bleeding risk
  • Quit Smoking: Stop smoking 4–6 weeks before and after surgery, as smoking negatively impacts healing and results
  • Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A healthy diet, good hydration, and overall health optimization support the best surgical outcomes and recovery
  • Prepare Your Recovery Space: Stock up on pillows for head elevation, cold compresses, and everything needed for a comfortable, peaceful recovery at home

What to Expect on the Day of Surgery

From the moment you arrive, you will receive the full attention of Dr. Conkright and our staff, with your comfort, safety, and anticipated outcome at the forefront of everything we do.

Eyelid surgery at Conkright Aesthetics is typically performed on an outpatient or in-office basis under local anesthesia with tumescent technique and/or mild sedation. Cases requiring general anesthesia are performed on an outpatient basis at SurgiCare Saint Vincent Ascension or Deaconess Women's Hospital.

Upper Blepharoplasty: An incision along the natural eyelid crease allows Dr. Conkright to remove or reposition excess skin and fat. The incision is closed with fine sutures to promote optimal healing and achieve a defined, youthful upper eyelid contour.

Lower Blepharoplasty: Incisions are made either just below the lash line or inside the lower lid. Excess fat is removed or redistributed, sagging skin is tightened, and the incision is closed with fine sutures.

Woman with auburn hair in black dress smiling at camera in natural light portrait - Fat transfer in Evansville, IN

Combining Eyelid Surgery with Other Procedures

Many patients choose to combine eyelid surgery with complementary procedures to achieve a more complete facial rejuvenation result.

AccuTite from the InMode SkinTite platform can be used alongside surgical blepharoplasty to further refine the upper and lower lid area — or as a standalone minimally invasive option for patients not ready for surgery.

Eyelid Surgery Recovery

  • Days 1–3: Rest and cold compresses are beneficial. Mild discomfort, temporary blurred vision, light sensitivity, watering eyes, swelling, and bruising are all normal and manageable.
  • Days 7–10: Most swelling and bruising resolve. Many patients feel comfortable returning to public activities.
  • Weeks 2–4: Most normal activities can be resumed. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 4–6 weeks.
  • Full recovery: Complete healing and scar fading can take several months. Final results are fully apparent within 2–3 months, with continued refinement over time.

Post-operative care includes cold compresses, head elevation, prescribed eye drops and ointments, and avoiding strenuous activities, eye rubbing, contact lenses, sun exposure, and eye makeup for at least two weeks.

7 Tips for Recovery From Eyelid Surgery

  • Keep your head elevated when resting or sleeping to help reduce post-operative swelling
  • Use cold compresses during the first few days to minimize swelling and soreness
  • Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for 4–6 weeks
  • Follow Dr. Conkright's medication and aftercare instructions precisely
  • Monitor the surgical site for signs of infection or complications — increased redness, swelling, or discharge
  • Stay hydrated and follow a healthy diet throughout recovery
  • Avoid smoking and alcohol during the initial recovery period

How Much Does Eyelid Surgery Cost in Evansville?

Pricing for eyelid surgery at Conkright Aesthetics varies based on the specifics and complexity of your treatment plan and your personal aesthetic goals. Most cosmetic eyelid surgeries are not covered by insurance, though functional procedures — such as ptosis repair or upper lid correction for vision obstruction — may be eligible for insurance coverage if deemed medically necessary. Pricing ranges can be found elsewhere on the website. A personalized cost estimate will be provided during your consultation. Financing options are available for qualifying patients (restrictions apply).

Why Choose Dr. Conkright?

Dr. J. Michael Conkright is a Board-certified plastic surgeon with over four decades of dedicated experience, research, and wisdom in plastic and reconstructive surgery. His deep expertise in facial anatomy, proportion, and the interplay between structure and volume makes him uniquely qualified to deliver eyelid rejuvenation results that are natural, harmonious, and long-lasting.

At Conkright Aesthetics, patients benefit from the full spectrum of eyelid rejuvenation options — from definitive surgical blepharoplasty to minimally invasive AccuTite and non-invasive Morpheus8 — allowing Dr. Conkright to design a plan tailored precisely to each patient's anatomy and goals.

Dr. Conkright earned his medical degree from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, completed a demanding five-year residency in general surgery, trauma, and critical care at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine in Mobile, Alabama, and received an additional two-year residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. His training also included pediatric surgery, breast surgery, burn care, and trauma reconstruction.

He is Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery — the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties to certify plastic surgeons — and is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the Aesthetic Society.

Financing options are available to help make your procedure more accessible (restrictions apply).

Schedule Your
Consultation

Eyelid surgery remains one of the most popular and consistently rewarding facial rejuvenation procedures available — delivering a more rested, alert, and naturally youthful appearance with results that last for years. Contact Conkright Aesthetics in Evansville today to schedule your private consultation with Dr. J. Michael Conkright.

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