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Eyelid & Under-Eye Skin Tightening vs. Surgery — Costs, Downtime, and Results

Eyelid & Under-Eye Skin Tightening vs. Surgery — Costs, Downtime, and Results

Home / Articles / Eyelid & Under-Eye Skin Tightening vs. Surgery — Costs, Downtime, and Results

When it comes to refreshing tired eyes, patients often weigh the choice between non-surgical skin tightening treatments and surgical procedures like blepharoplasty. Both approaches can improve the appearance of the eyelids and under-eye area, but they differ significantly in cost, downtime, and long-term results. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand your options.

Non-Surgical Eyelid and Under-Eye Skin Tightening

How Non-Surgical Treatments Work

Non-surgical treatments use advanced technology—such as fractional CO₂ lasers, radiofrequency (RF), ultrasound (Ultherapy), and microneedling with RF—to stimulate collagen, tighten skin, and smooth fine lines. These are best for mild to moderate concerns and cannot remove significant excess skin or fat.

Cost of Non-Surgical Eyelid Tightening

  • Laser, RF, or ultrasound: $1,000–$2,800+ per treatment
  • Maintenance treatments may be needed for ongoing results

Recovery and Downtime for Non-Surgical Treatments

  • Minimal downtime—typically back to normal in 2–5 days
  • Mild swelling, redness, or bruising possible
  • Results build gradually and may require repeat treatments

Results and Longevity of Non-Surgical Treatments

  • Subtle to moderate improvements
  • Best for fine lines, early skin laxity, and mild puffiness
  • Results last up to 1–3 years depending on the treatment and settings used
  • Completing a series of treatments yields optimal results; maintenance recommended

Pros

  • Lower upfront cost
  • Minimal downtime
  • Safer, less invasive
  • Gradual, natural-looking results

Cons

  • Results are not as dramatic
  • Require repeat sessions and maintenance
  • Limited improvement for severe laxity or fat pads

Surgical Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

How Blepharoplasty Works

Blepharoplasty removes or repositions excess skin, fat, and muscle around the eyelids. It’s a surgical procedure performed under anesthesia and can dramatically reduce puffiness, bags, and drooping eyelids. Results are long-lasting and more dramatic compared to non-surgical options.

Cost of Eyelid Surgery

  • Average cost: $4,000–$7,000, with a wide range up to $15,000 depending on complexity
  • If treating under-eye areas too, the cost is higher
  • Usually a one-time investment with long-lasting results

Recovery and Downtime for Surgery

  • 1–2 weeks of downtime with visible swelling and bruising
  • Full healing may take weeks to months
  • Restrictions on physical activity during recovery

Results and Longevity of Surgery

  • Dramatic improvement for excess skin and under-eye bags
  • Results often last 10–15 years
  • Cannot stop natural aging but resets the clock significantly

Pros

  • Long-lasting, dramatic results
  • Addresses issues non-surgical treatments cannot, such as fat pads

Cons

  • Higher upfront cost
  • Longer downtime and recovery
  • Higher risk of complications

What to consider / what’s right for you

When deciding which route to take, think about:

  • Severity and type of eyelid concern — Is it just fine lines and mild sagging? Or lots of loose skin, heavy eyelid hooding, puffiness/bags?
  • Desired result — Do you want subtle refresh, or dramatic change?
  • Willingness for downtime / recovery — Can you take time off, avoid social engagements for a week or more? Can you manage the swelling and healing?
  • Budget not just upfront but maintenance — If non-surgical, maintenance treatments may be needed to continue results. For surgery, most cost upfront but there may be costs if revisions needed or follow-ups.
  • Health / skin condition / anatomy — Skin thickness, healing ability, underlying fat, general medical health, risk factors.

CO₂ Laser Treatments at Renew MedSpa

At Renew, our advanced fractional CO₂ laser (including the CoolPeel Fusion and Deka Fusion options) is one of the most effective ways to tighten eyelid and under-eye skin without surgery. Learn more about this treatment and pricing.