Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the upper and/or lower eyelids. This procedure can address various issues such as excess skin, wrinkles, puffiness, bags, and fatty deposits that can make a person look tired, older or give an unflattering appearance to the eyes. The procedure is performed by a plastic or oculoplastic surgeon, and it can be done on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, depending on the patient’s needs and goals. During the procedure, the surgeon will remove excess skin, fat, and muscle, and then tighten the remaining tissue to create a smooth and youthful appearance. The procedure is typically performed under local or general anaesthesia. Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the surgery, but most people can return to work and normal activities within a week or two. The results of blepharoplasty are usually long-lasting and can have a significant impact on a person’s appearance and self-confidence.

RELATED: Eyelid Surgery FAQs – Q&As about Blepharoplasty

Types of blepharoplasty procedures:

• Upper blepharoplasty
• Lower blepharoplasty
• Lateral canthoplasty (almond eye surgery)
• Asian Blepharoplasty
• Male blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty Expected Results

Several factors can contribute to eyelid sagging, also known as ptosis. These include:

1. Ageing: As we age, the skin and muscles in the eyelids can weaken and lose elasticity, leading to sagging and drooping of the eyelids.
2. Genetics: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to eyelid sagging, which may run in families.
3. Neurological conditions: Certain neurological conditions, such as myasthenia gravis or Horner’s syndrome, can cause eyelid sagging due to muscle weakness or dysfunction.
4. Trauma or injury: Trauma to the eye or surrounding area, such as a blow to the head, can cause eyelid sagging.
5. Previous eyelid surgery: Sagging can occur as a complication of eyelid surgery, such as blepharoplasty.
6. Eyelid tumours or cysts: Tumors or cysts on the eyelid can cause the eyelid to droop.

It’s important to note that eyelid sagging can also be a normal part of the ageing process, and does not always indicate a serious underlying condition. Consultation with an Oculoplastic surgeon or Plastic surgeon is the best way to determine the cause of eyelid sagging and the appropriate treatment options.

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that targets the upper and/or lower eyelids to improve their appearance. The procedure can target a variety of conditions, including:

1. Excess skin: As we age, the skin on the eyelids can lose elasticity, causing it to droop or sag. Blepharoplasty can remove this excess skin and give the eyes a more youthful and alert appearance.
2. Puffy or “bags” under the eyes: The accumulation of fat in the lower eyelids can create a puffy or “baggy” appearance. Blepharoplasty can remove this excess fat to reduce puffiness and create a more rested and refreshed look.
3. Hooded eyelids: The skin on the upper eyelids can droop and create a hooded appearance, which can make the eyes look smaller or less open. Blepharoplasty can remove excess skin and fat to lift the upper eyelids and create a more alert and youthful appearance.
4. Obstructed vision: In some cases, excess skin on the upper eyelids can obstruct vision. In these cases, blepharoplasty may be performed for functional rather than cosmetic reasons.
5. Wrinkles and fine lines: While blepharoplasty is not specifically designed to address wrinkles and fine lines, the procedure can improve the overall appearance of the eyelids, which can make wrinkles and fine lines less noticeable.

It’s important to note that blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure and carries certain risks, such as infection, bleeding, and scarring. Therefore, it’s important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon and have realistic expectations about the procedure results. In addition, non-surgical options such as Thermage, Ultherapy, etc., can also be considered an alternative to achieve eyelid tightening results.

If you are considering blepharoplasty, it’s important to prepare for the procedure to ensure the best possible outcome. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for blepharoplasty:

• Schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon at Centre for Surgery: During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your eyelids, discuss your goals and concerns, and explain the details of the procedure. They will also determine whether you are a good candidate for blepharoplasty.
• Follow your surgeon’s preoperative instructions: Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions to follow before the procedure, such as avoiding certain medications and supplements and avoiding smoking and alcohol. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to minimize risks and ensure optimal healing.
• Arrange for transportation and assistance: You will not be able to drive yourself home after the procedure, so it’s important to arrange for transportation and assistance. You should also plan on taking time off work or other responsibilities to recover from the procedure.
• Prepare your recovery area: Prepare a comfortable recovery area in your home, with plenty of pillows to elevate your head and ice packs to reduce swelling. Make sure you have all necessary items, such as medication, gauze, and ointment at hand.
• Discuss your expectations with your surgeon: It’s important to have realistic expectations about the results of blepharoplasty. While the procedure can improve the appearance of the eyelids, it may not fully correct wrinkles or dark circles around the eyes and the results may not be permanent. Your surgeon will be able to provide you with a better idea of what you can expect.
• Have a healthy lifestyle: Keep in mind that maintaining a healthy lifestyle before and after surgery will support the healing process and the overall results. This means eating a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

In summary, blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that requires proper preparation to ensure the best possible outcome. By scheduling a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon at our Baker Street clinic, following preoperative instructions, arranging transportation and assistance, preparing your recovery area, discussing your expectations, and having a healthy lifestyle, you can increase the chances of a successful procedure and recovery.

Upper Blepharoplasty

Upper blepharoplasty is also known as upper eyelid surgery. It allows upper eyelid rejuvenation without undergoing significant facial changes, as with a facelift. It is normal to have eyelid skin, but with the ageing process, the reduction of collagen and elastin leads to eyelid laxity, and this can make a person look more tired. Patients will often remark their work colleagues think they look tired all the time. For women, the application of make-up can become more difficult due to the extra loose skin and applying cosmetics like eyeshadow becomes more difficult, to apply. For younger women in their thirties, one of the most common reasons for seeking upper blepharoplasty is the difficulty with applying makeup. Patients often notice their upper eyelid feels heavier, and patients may actively elevate their brows without thinking to open up their eyes more. Constant activation of the frontalis muscle, which is the main elevator of the brow, may increase the incidence of horizontal forehead wrinkles. Treating these forehead wrinkles with neurotoxin is not effective until the extra skin of the upper eyelid is removed. Many practitioners will incorrectly treat the frontalis muscle with neurotoxin when the patient actually needs an upper blepharoplasty. This is because the neurotoxin will prevent the brows from being able to be raised, and this will amplify the impression of the upper eyelids looking even more saggy and droopy. In these cases, the priority is always to treat the upper eyelids before the horizontal forehead lines.

Lower Blepharoplasty

Patients often seek a lower blepharoplasty to address the presence of under-eye bags. Patients both feel as if they look constantly tired as well as being remarked upon by work colleagues. The skin of the lower eyelid is the thinnest skin on the entire face. It is, therefore, very prone to undergoing premature ageing changes with the appearance of wrinkly skin. Patients will often have targeting injections of HA filler to this area, which are referred to as ‘tear trough’ injections. Injection of the tear trough is one of the most challenging areas to treat. Sometimes, the area is inappropriately treated with HA filler when the more suitable treatment is a lower blepharoplasty. The treatment of dark circles, the hollowness of the lower eyelids and loose skin is optimally addressed with a combination of lower blepharoplasty, fat grafting and laser resurfacing. It is important to consult with a specialist facial plastic surgeon to ensure you get optimal outcomes.

Aesthetic Blepharoplasty

An aesthetic blepharoplasty is performed on the upper and lower eyelids. Aesthetic eyelid surgery is indicated for rejuvenation of the upper and lower eyelid region.

Reconstructive Blepharoplasty

A reconstructive blepharoplasty is used when the extra upper eyelid interferes with the patient’s vision or due to some other medical issue such as excessive tearing, thyroid eye disease, removal of eyelid lumps and bumps or revision blepharoplasty.

The procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Anaesthesia: Before the procedure, the patient will be given either local anaesthesia with oral sedation or general anaesthesia. Local anaesthesia numbs the area around the eyes, while general anaesthesia puts the patient to sleep.
2. Incision: The surgeon will make a small incision along the natural crease of the upper eyelid or just below the lashes of the lower eyelid. Through this incision, the surgeon will remove excess skin, fat, and muscle as needed.
3. Reshaping: After removing the excess tissue, the surgeon will reshape the eyelids to create a more youthful and refreshed appearance. This may involve repositioning or removing fat or removing excess skin or muscle.
4. Closing the incision: The incision will then be closed with sutures, surgical glue or tape, and/or skin adhesive.
5. Recovery: After the procedure, the patient will be given instructions for recovery, including how to care for the incision site, how to reduce swelling and bruising, and when to return for follow-up appointments.

It’s important to note that the procedure may be performed on one or both eyelids and that the steps may vary depending on the specific needs of the patient.

The procedure itself usually takes between 1 to 2 hours, and patients can go home the same day. Recovery time may vary from person to person, but generally, patients can expect to have some swelling and bruising around the eyes for the first week or two, and complete recovery can take up to a month. Patients are usually able to return to work and other normal activities within a week or two, but strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for a few weeks.

It’s also important to note that the final results of blepharoplasty may not be visible for several weeks or months as the swelling and bruising subside.

As with any surgical procedure, it’s important to have realistic expectations and to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with a qualified plastic surgeon before undergoing blepharoplasty.

Recovery after blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the individual’s overall health. However, there are some general guidelines that can be followed to promote healing and minimise discomfort during the recovery process.

Immediately following the surgery, patients may experience swelling and bruising around the eyes, which can typically be managed with cold compresses and over-the-counter pain medication. It’s important to keep the head elevated for the first few days to reduce swelling and to avoid strenuous activity, such as bending or lifting.

Stitches will be removed within the first week, and most patients are able to return to work and normal activities within a week or two, depending on the type of procedure. However, strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks to prevent any complications.

Patients should also avoid exposing their eyes to the sun or wind and should use sunscreen to protect the skin from damage during the healing process. It’s also important to follow any additional instructions provided by the surgeon, such as keeping the eyes clean and using eye drops as directed.

It’s normal for the eyes to feel dry and itchy for the first few weeks after the surgery, but these symptoms should improve as the eyes heal. Patients should also be aware that the final results of the surgery may not be fully visible for several months as the swelling and bruising subside.

Overall, it is important to follow the postoperative instructions given by the surgeon and to be patient while the body heals. The results of blepharoplasty can be very satisfying and long-lasting.

RELATED: How long is blepharoplasty recovery?

Several things can be done to speed up recovery after eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty.

1. Follow postoperative instructions: It is crucial to follow the instructions provided by the surgeon in order to promote healing and minimize the risk of complications. This may include keeping the head elevated, avoiding strenuous activity, and using cold compresses to reduce swelling.
2. Manage pain and swelling: Pain and swelling are common after eyelid surgery, but they can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and cold compresses. Applying a cold compress to the eyes for 20-30 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help to reduce swelling and discomfort.
3. Keep eyes clean and moisturized: Keeping the eyes clean and moisturized can also help to speed up recovery. The surgeon may provide specific instructions for cleaning the eyes, and it’s important to follow these instructions to prevent infection. Using artificial tears or eye drops can also help to keep the eyes lubricated and reduce dryness and itching.
4. Avoid exposure to sun and wind: To minimise the risk of complications and promote healing, it’s important to avoid exposing the eyes to the sun or wind for the first few weeks after surgery. Wearing sunglasses can help to protect the eyes from UV rays and wind.
5. Get enough rest and take it easy: It is important to get enough rest and take it easy during the recovery period. Avoiding strenuous activity and getting plenty of sleep can help the body to heal more quickly.
6. Avoid smoking: Smoking can slow down the healing process and increases the risk of complications after eyelid surgery. It’s best to avoid smoking for at least two weeks before and after the surgery.

By following these tips, patients can help to speed up recovery after eyelid surgery and achieve optimal results from the procedure. It’s important to keep in mind that healing times can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery, but with proper care, patients can usually return to normal activities within a few weeks.

One of the concerns that patients may have about the procedure is the appearance of scars after the surgery. Here is what you should know about blepharoplasty scars:

1. Location of the scars: The incisions for blepharoplasty are typically made along the natural crease of the upper eyelid or just below the lashes of the lower eyelid. These incisions are carefully placed in areas where they are less visible and are well-concealed by the natural contours of the eyelids.
2. Size and appearance of the scars: The size and appearance of the scars will depend on the extent of the procedure and the individual healing process. In most cases, the scars are small and well-hidden. They may be slightly red or pink for the first few weeks, but will typically fade over time.
3. Healing process: It’s important to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications such as infection or scarring. Your surgeon will also provide you with information on how to care for the incision site and reduce the appearance of the scars.
4. Scar treatment: In some cases, scar treatment may be required to improve the appearance of the scars. Options include silicone gel or silicone sheets, or other topical treatments such as topical retinoids, silicone-based products, or vitamin E oil.
5. Final results: It’s important to note that the final results of blepharoplasty, including the appearance of the scars, may not be visible for several weeks or months as the swelling and bruising subsides.

It’s important to remember that every patient and every surgery is unique, and it’s hard to predict the exact outcome of the scarring. However, in most cases, the scars are small, well-hidden, and fade over time. Consult with your board-certified plastic surgeon to understand the expected results and the potential risks and complications of the procedure, including the scars.

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the upper and/or lower eyelids. While the procedure is generally safe, there are certain risks and complications that patients should be aware of before undergoing the procedure.

1. Infection: As with any surgical procedure, blepharoplasty carries a small risk of infection. This can be minimized by following proper pre- and post-operative instructions and taking antibiotics as prescribed by your surgeon.
2. Bleeding: There is a small risk of bleeding during or after the procedure. This can be minimized by avoiding blood thinning medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen before the procedure.
3. Scarring: Some patients may experience scarring after blepharoplasty. The scars are typically located in natural creases and are not visible. However, in some cases, the scars may be more noticeable and may require further treatment.
4. Dry eyes: Some patients may experience dry eyes after the procedure, which can be treated with artificial tears or other lubricants.
5. Asymmetry: In rare cases, there may be some degree of asymmetry in the eyes after the procedure, which can be corrected with revision surgery.
6. Numbness or tingling: Some patients may experience numbness or tingling in the eyelids after the procedure, which is usually temporary and goes away within a few weeks.
7. Changes in vision: In rare cases, the procedure can cause changes in vision, such as double vision, dry eyes, or eyelid drooping. This can be corrected with revision surgery or other treatments.
8. dissatisfaction with the results: Although rare, some patients may be disappointed with the results of their surgery. This can happen if patients have unrealistic expectations or if the surgeon does not achieve the desired outcome.

It’s important to note that these risks and complications are rare, and most patients experience a successful procedure with minimal side effects. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations and to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with a qualified plastic surgeon before undergoing surgery.

It’s important to remember that you should always choose a specialist Plastic Surgeon, who has experience with blepharoplasty, and who has good reviews and testimonials. Also, it’s important to have clear communication with your surgeon about your expectations and make sure you have a good understanding of the recovery process before deciding to undergo the procedure.

RELATED: Can blepharoplasty cause dry eyes?

Our aftercare programme was recently described as ‘outstanding’ by our regulator, the Care Quality Commission. 

Our postoperative support team phones all our patients the day after their eye bag removal procedure and then every other day thereafter for the first two weeks. The proactive nature of our postoperative support gives every patient the best opportunity for a smooth postoperative recovery free of complications. In many cases, if complications were to occur, their impact is markedly lessened by early detection, prompt clinical assessment and correct treatment. When a patient expresses concern to our team over the phone, then we often call patients on the same day for assessment with one of our expert nursing team. Even if there is no significant issue, the careful explanation and calm reassurance provided by our team can help to alleviate any worries you may have experienced.

Trust a facial plastic surgeon

A facial plastic surgeon is trained to undertake aesthetic surgical procedures in the facial region. They are dedicated sub-specialists. Compared with general plastic surgeons, facial plastic surgeons are inherently better trained to perform delicate procedures in the eye region. The extra years of surgical training by facial specialists focused on the facial region results in an exceptionally high degree of skill. Blepharoplasty surgery is highly intricate, and our surgeons are highly experienced in undertaking surgery on the delicate eyelid region.

RELATED: What is facial cosmetic surgery?

Our surgeons are full members of:

What is included in my treatment package?

• As many preoperative consultations with your surgeon as you like to make sure the procedure is right for you
• Treatment at a specialist day surgery facility recently rated ‘Good’ by the CQC
• Enhanced same-day discharge with the added benefits of recovering in your own home
• 24/7 clinical support from your surgeon for the first 48 hours and our expert postoperative support team
• Your very own dedicated patient coordinator
• In-depth preoperative medical assessment to make sure you are fully fit for the rhinoplasty procedure
• Exceptionally high standards of postoperative care are described as ‘outstanding’ by the CQC, with regular telephone and face-to-face checks by our expert postoperative support team.

RealSelf Top Doctors

RealSelf’s top doctor status is awarded to less than 10% of the RealSelf doctor community.  This status is earned by achieving consistently high patient satisfaction (from RealSelf reviews), getting excellent feedback on expert answers to patient questions, and investing significant time in Q&A and other doctor activities. RealSelf’s top doctors are rated among the very best surgeons in the UK.