Consultation
Your surgeon will begin with a thorough consultation to ensure you feel fully informed, comfortable and confident before deciding to proceed. This appointment includes a detailed discussion about your concerns, such as drooping upper lids, puffiness or bags beneath the eyes, excess skin, changes related to ageing or sun damage and any impact these issues may have on your vision or confidence.
Your eyelid anatomy, skin quality, muscle tone and the presence of excess fat will be assessed to determine whether upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty or a combination of both is most appropriate. You will have the opportunity to ask questions about the likely results, incision placement, recovery, scarring and whether blepharoplasty can be safely combined with other facial procedures if desired.
Anaesthesia and Procedure Time
Upper eyelid surgery is typically performed under local anaesthetic as a day procedure, making it a straightforward option for many patients. Lower eyelid surgery is a more involved operation and is usually performed under general anaesthesia. The duration of surgery depends on whether one or both eyelids are being treated, but most procedures take one to two hours.
Incision Placement
Incisions for upper and lower blepharoplasty are placed carefully to achieve effective results while keeping scars as discreet as possible.
For upper eyelid surgery, a small crescent of excess skin is removed from the natural upper lid crease or hairline area, allowing the lid to open more fully and appear smoother and more refreshed.
For lower eyelid surgery, an incision is made just beneath the eyelashes. Through this incision, the skin and underlying muscle are gently lifted to allow removal or repositioning of bulging fat, as well as tightening of any loose skin. The amount of skin that can safely be removed is carefully controlled to avoid pulling the lower lid downward.
Tissue Tightening and Eyelid Reshaping
In upper blepharoplasty, redundant skin (and occasionally excess fat) is removed to restore a clearer, more open eyelid contour. This helps improve hooding and reduces the tired or heavy appearance of the eyes.
In lower blepharoplasty, the procedure focuses on reducing or repositioning fat that causes eye bags. Loose skin is tightened, and the lid is smoothed to create a more rested, youthful appearance. In some cases, muscle tightening may also be performed.
Blepharoplasty may be performed alone or combined with other facial procedures, such as a brow lift or facelift, for a more comprehensive rejuvenation.
Closing the Incisions
Once the necessary adjustments have been made, the incisions are closed with fine sutures. Dressings may be applied, although upper eyelid surgery often requires minimal external dressing. Cold compresses are typically recommended in the early postoperative period to reduce swelling.
Scar Management
Your surgeon will provide personalised advice on caring for the incisions once initial healing has occurred. Scars typically sit within the natural eyelid crease or just below the lash line and fade to become barely noticeable over time.