Eyelid Surgery for Men: Why It Tops the List Worldwide

November is Movember, a month set aside to encourage men to pay closer attention to their health. For many men, that attention also extends to how they look and feel when they catch their reflection. Many men first consider eyelid surgery after hearing that they look tired, even when they feel fine.

They’re far from alone. According to the latest global survey from the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), eyelid surgery was the most common surgical procedure for both men and women in 2025. It’s the first time it has held the top spot for both at once. Men accounted for 14.4% of all surgical procedures worldwide.

Why Men Choose Eyelid Surgery

Heavy upper lids and puffy lower lids can make a man look worn out, stressed or older than he feels, even after a full night’s sleep. For some men, sagging upper eyelid skin can also begin to block peripheral vision. Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, removes excess skin and fat around the eyes to create a more rested, alert appearance.

Men are often drawn to eyelid surgery because the change is subtle. Coworkers and friends may notice that you look refreshed without being able to pinpoint why. Dr. Davis’s goal is always to keep your eyes looking like your eyes.

Upper, Lower or Both

Dr. Davis tailors eyelid surgery to each patient’s concerns:

• Upper eyelid surgery: The incision is placed within the natural crease of the upper lid, where the scar is hidden as it heals. Excess skin and fat are removed to address hooding and heaviness.
• Lower eyelid surgery: The incision is placed just below the lash line to remove excess skin and the puffy bags beneath the eyes. The underlying muscle is then tightened to smooth the transition into the cheek.

Some men need only one technique, while others benefit from both at the same time. If a low or heavy brow is contributing to the tired look, Dr. Davis may recommend combining eyelid surgery with a brow lift.

A Manageable Recovery

Eyelid surgery is an outpatient procedure that usually takes one to two hours. Dr. Davis routinely performs upper eyelid surgery using only local anesthesia, while lower eyelid surgery is performed under general anesthesia.

Expect some bruising and swelling during the first week. Cool compresses help during the first two days, and sutures are removed at one week. Most patients feel very good by the end of that first week, though bruising can linger for a few weeks. Strenuous exercise and rigorous activity can resume at eight weeks, which is worth planning around if you lift, run or play sports regularly.

Results That Last

The skin and fat removed during eyelid surgery do not come back. While your eyes will continue to age naturally, the refreshed appearance holds for many years. In some cases, upper eyelid surgery may even be covered by insurance when excess skin interferes with vision.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you’re tired of looking tired, Dr. Davis can help you decide whether eyelid surgery is right for you. Contact our Folsom office or call 916-318-5770 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Davis, a board-certified plastic surgeon serving Sacramento and the surrounding area.