Can a dentist perform blepharoplasty?

Behind this question, I often hear a more personal concern: “How do I know my eyes will be in capable hands?” That is the question I want this article to help you explore. An eyelid incision may be small, but the operation affects tissue that helps protect your sight.

In my 22 years of practice, I have learned to consider appearance and eyelid function together. Removing a fold of skin is only one part of the assessment. I also need to think about eye closure, eyelid position, and how a change will fit the rest of the face.

What do the Brazilian rules actually say?

I reviewed the official sources for this article on October 29, 2026. CFO Resolution 285/2026 sets out a general restriction on certain procedures, with exceptions. Resolution 286/2026 specifically includes upper and lower blepharoplasty among the procedures assigned to registered specialists in Orofacial Aesthetic Surgery, known in Brazil as CEOF. It also sets requirements for training, registration, and the treatment environment. [1]

I would therefore avoid saying that all dentists are prohibited from performing eyelid surgery based only on an older rule. The opposite claim, that any dentist may perform it, is also misleading. The Regional Dental Council of Rondônia explains that the scopes of CEOF, Orofacial Harmonization, and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery should not be expanded automatically by analogy. [2]

Has the dispute over dentists performing blepharoplasty been settled?

No. In federal case 1036016-42.2026.4.01.3400, which challenges these resolutions, an April 24 decision deferred consideration of the preliminary injunction until the other party and the Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office had been heard. When the public record was checked on October 29, its latest entry, dated August 27, showed the case awaiting a decision. That is not a final judgment approving or rejecting the rules. [3]

A legislative proposal, PDL 177/2026, also seeks to suspend Resolution 286. It remained pending when checked. A proposal is not the same as an enacted suspension. Because this situation may change, I recommend checking the current rules and any applicable court orders before booking treatment. [4]

This discussion concerns Brazil. I would not apply it to the United States, the United Kingdom, or another country. If you are considering surgery elsewhere, check that jurisdiction’s medical and dental regulators. A qualification or permission advertised in one country does not establish permission in another.

Why is anatomy knowledge only part of the answer?

Knowing head and neck anatomy matters, but it does not, by itself, demonstrate readiness to perform eyelid surgery. I look beyond a course description: surgical training must include assessment, selecting the right procedure, operating, follow-up, and recognizing problems. This applies to anyone proposing to take responsibility for an operation.

When I assess someone for blepharoplasty, I do not just identify skin that seems loose. I consider brow position, support of the lower eyelid, eye closure, and eye symptoms. Looking tired does not automatically mean that removing as much skin as possible is the right answer.

I also ask about previous operations, dryness, contact lenses, and existing eye care. Depending on the findings, an ophthalmologist’s assessment can help clarify conditions that need attention. I choose the surgical plan after understanding those details, not before.

What can happen if too much eyelid skin is removed?

Incomplete closure can worsen dryness and expose the cornea, the clear surface at the front of the eye. Persistent exposure can damage that surface and, in serious cases, contribute to ulceration. Preserving function is therefore as important as changing appearance. [5] [6]

We also need to discuss visible scars, asymmetry, and changes in eyelid shape. A complication alone does not prove negligence. Several factors can contribute, even with appropriate care. What matters is having a practitioner prepared to reduce avoidable risks, recognize an adverse outcome, and arrange the care it requires.

What would I check before choosing a practitioner?

I would start with verifiable information rather than photographs or follower counts. In Brazil, a physician advertising as a plastic surgeon should have a medical registration, the CRM, and the relevant specialist registration, the RQE. For a proposal from a dentist, check the CRO registration, the specific specialty claimed, and its current scope.

Ask who will actually operate. Ask about their training in eyelid surgery, how they handle complications, and why they recommend that particular approach for you. A professional title does not replace procedure-specific experience. A confident presentation does not replace a registration you can check independently.

I believe a useful consultation leaves room for questions and for deciding against surgery. Describing the operation as “just a little skin” leaves out important responsibilities. Promising no risk does too. I would rather discuss the limitations before a patient makes a commitment.

How much do the setting and team matter?

They matter a great deal. I would want to know whether the facility is licensed and suitable for the planned operation and anesthesia, what monitoring is available, and how the team would respond to an emergency. The label “office” or “hospital” does not answer every one of those questions.

A severe allergic reaction or a cardiac emergency calls for timely recognition, equipment, protocols, and trained staff. It would be inaccurate to say that dentists receive no emergency training. CFO Resolution 286 itself includes monitoring and emergency-care requirements. The useful question is how that preparation is provided in the particular service you are considering.

What would I put first?

I put careful assessment and protection of eye function first. A dispute between professions cannot replace a clear discussion of the operation. You deserve to know who will look after you, what changes are realistic, what can go wrong, and whom to contact afterward.

During a consultation with me, I can assess your eyelids and explain my recommendation. If you have already had surgery and develop worsening vision or substantial pain, seek emergency medical care immediately. Difficulty closing your eyes also needs prompt assessment. Questions about a practitioner’s credentials should not delay necessary care.

You can also read the Portuguese version of this article.

Illustrative image; not a patient or surgical result.