Eyelid surgery (Blepharoplasty)

Blepharoplasty is an eyelid surgery procedure used to remove excess skin and puffiness from the upper and lower eyelid - correcting drooping, providing an eyelid lift or tightening excess skin folds below the eyes.

What result can I expect from eyelid surgery?

After blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), your eyelids will look fresher and more youthful. Puffiness and skin wrinkling on your upper and lower eyelids should be reduced. You should only experience slight scarring following your eyelid surgery procedure.

How does blepharoplasty surgery work?

During eyelid surgery, excess fat, skin and muscle are removed before the wound is carefully sutured. Your surgeon will make an incision along the natural lines and folds of the skin around your eyes while you are under local or general anaesthetic. The incision is done with precision to ensure minimal scarring.

How long does eyelid surgery take?

Blepharoplasty surgery typically takes between 1-2 hours to complete. If the operation is performed on just the upper or lower eyelid, less time is needed. An overnight stay is often required to minimise post-operative swelling and bruising.

What is the recovery time from a blepharoplasty?

Typically, it takes approximately 7-10 days to return to your normal social activities following eyelid surgery. The scars will remain pink for some time following your operation before fading to a silver colour in most cases. There will be some swelling in your eyelids which will take some months to finally settle. Any fine stitches in your eyelids will need to be removed 4-5 days after your operation.

How long will my blepharoplasty results last?

Most side effects from this type of surgery are temporary. It is normal to have blurred vision, which may last up to 2-3 days. Bruising and swelling around the eyes may also occur. Some patients have experienced dry and itchiness to the eyes after eyelid surgery: this symptom may last for approximately one week. More serious side effects are rare and are discussed in our information videos which we would encourage you to watch.