Medically reviewed by Mr Hyder Ridha, Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeon
Blepharoplasty – Eyelid Surgery
A blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess skin, fat, and muscle from the eyelids to rejuvenate the eyes’ appearance by reducing dropping eyelids or lower eye bags.
Blepharoplasty in London/Hertfordshire is a highly sought-after cosmetic procedure for eye rejuvenation that addresses the common signs of ageing.
This sophisticated surgical intervention meticulously removes or repositions excess skin, muscle and fat around the upper and lower eyelids, for a more youthful appearance.
A Blepharoplasty removes excess skin, muscle and fat that may be causing sagging of the upper and/or lower eyelids
Blepharoplasty At a Glance
Surgery time
1-2 hours
Anaesthesia
Local or General Anaesthetic
Hospital stay
Day case
Recovery
1 week scar healing
What is a Blepharoplasty?
A Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure performed on the eyelids that removes excess skin, muscle and fat that may be causing sagging of the upper and/or lower eyelids.
Designed to meet individual goals, a blepharoplasty procedure isn’t just effective aesthetically, it can also improve peripheral vision obstructed by sagging eyelids, offering both functional and cosmetic benefits.
Understanding the reasons people choose a blepharoplasty and the consequent risks and benefits can help make you feel more confident in your decision. This guide helps you explore the key factors.
Causes
Ageing causes the soft tissue of the eyelids to stretch and the muscles supporting them to weaken, which results in excess skin and fat gathering in the upper and lower eyelids. This can cause sagging eyebrows, droopy upper lids and bags under the eyes. If significantly excessive it can obscure vision.
Blepharoplasty Benefits
A blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is a procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the eyelids.
It can be performed on the upper lids, lower lids, or both.
The key benefits include:
- Enhanced appearance: Results in a more youthful and rested appearance of the eyes.
- Improved vision: For some individuals, removing excess skin can broaden the field of vision that was previously obstructed.
- Reduced bags and under-eye circles: Helps in diminishing puffiness and bags under the eyes, contributing to a fresher look.
- Fine lines reduction: Softens fine lines around the lower lid and outer corners of the eyes.
Risks
Blepharoplasty is typically a safe and common procedure but as with any surgical procedure, there are always possible risks. These include:
- Infection
- Bleeding/bruising
- Swelling
- Asymmetry
- Overcorrection resulting in difficulty closing the eyes
- Under correction
- Dry eyes
- Watery eyes
These risks are uncommon and in general, blepharoplasty patients achieve excellent results. However, it’s important to know the potential risks and complications before the procedure.
Who is a good candidate?
If you have excess skin in your upper or lower lids and/or bags that create an aged or tired appearance then you maybe a good candidate for a blepharoplasty procedure. It is important to:
Be in good health
Discuss any eye related problems such as dry eyes or glaucoma
Be a non-smoker
Have realistic expectations
Related Conditions
Excess skin in the eyelids, known as dermatochalasis, and eyelid bags or steatoblepahron, are both common age related changes that...
Book a Consultation
Take the first step toward your ideal look by booking a consultation with our expert surgeon.
Understanding what blepharoplasty eyelid surgery involves, can help you feel more confident and prepared for your journey. The blepharoplasty procedure is carefully planned to achieve the results you desire, whilst keeping your safety and comfort paramount. From your initial consultation to recovery, each step is designed to offer a smooth experience. We outline below what you can expect from your eyelid surgery.
Consultation
Your first consultation is a crucial part of your journey and we make it a priority that you feel at ease throughout. Mr Ridha carries out the consultation personally, taking time to listen carefully to understand your goals and give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
He will then discuss the suitable treatment options available, including the risks and benefits, recovery times and expected outcomes. Mr Ridha is happy for you to attend with a family member or friend.
How a Blepharoplasty Is Performed
- Anaesthesia
Depending on the type of blepharoplasty, the procedure is performed under either local or general anaesthetic. - Incision placement
Incisions are made along the natural lines of the eyelids or within the inner surface of the eyelid to keep scars as discreet as possible. - Removing or repositioning tissue
Excess fat, skin and occasionally muscle are removed or repositioned to improve the eyelid appearance while maintaining proper eye function. - Closing the incisions
The incisions are closed with sutures. - Procedure duration
The surgery typically takes between 1 to 2 hours.
Blepharoplasty Recovery Timeline
| First few days | Swelling, bruising and discomfort are common. Medication will be prescribed to assist with pain management. |
| First week | Most people take about one week off work to recover. Avoid makeup, contact lenses, strenuous activity, saunas and steam rooms during this period. |
| Up to 6 weeks | Strenuous activity, saunas and steam rooms should be avoided for 6 weeks. Final results become visible as swelling fully subsides over this period. |
| Long-term | Surgical results are long-lasting, typically ranging from 7 to 10 years. |
Blepharoplasty Results
The choice to have a blepharoplasty is a personal decision.
It can be useful to see previous before and after blepharoplasty results to understand what you can expect and help you to make up your mind.
How much does a blepharoplasty cost in the UK?
Prices from
£3645
Blepharoplasty cost in the UK depends on whether the upper and/or lower eyelids are addressed and whether the procedure is performed under local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic.
We recommend that you book an initial consultation with Mr Ridha and following his assessment and discussion of your desired outcome, an accurate eyelid surgery cost can be provided to achieve your goals.
You can find more information on our pricing and payment plans pages.
FAQs
How long does a blepharoplasty procedure take?
A blepharoplasty procedure typically takes between 1 to 2 hours, depending on whether upper or lower eyelid or all four eyelids are being addressed.
What is the best age to have a blepharoplasty?
There is no definitive “best” age for a blepharoplasty; it’s more about when the signs of ageing or functional issues become bothersome.
However, most patients seeking this procedure are usually in their 40s or older which is when the changes become more pronounced.
Is it worth getting a blepharoplasty?
Opting for a blepharoplasty can be worthwhile, particularly if saggy upper eyelid skin or puffy bags beneath the eyes affect your appearance or vision.
This procedure rejuvenates the eye area, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits.
Is a blepharoplasty painful?
Patients typically report minimal pain during the blepharoplasty procedure, due to local anaesthesia.
Post-operative discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with simple analgesic medication, making the process of undergoing a blepharoplasty more comfortable.
Is upper eyelid surgery the same as upper blepharoplasty surgery?
Yes, upper eyelid surgery is the same as upper blepharoplasty surgery.
This specialised procedure focuses on correcting issues related to the upper eyelids, such as removing excess eyelid skin and fat to achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
How long do results last from an upper eyelid blepharoplasy?
The results of an upper eyelid blepharoplasty can last for many years.
While the procedure doesn’t halt the ageing process, it can significantly reduce the appearance of ageing around the eyes, making it a long lasting solution for those concerned with upper eyelid aesthetics.
Can I get blepharoplasty eyelid surgery near me?
Patients in Hertfordshire and London can get a blepharoplasty near you with HR Plastic Surgery due to clinic locations being easily accessible.
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