Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery is a surgical procedure that removes the sagging, puffiness and wrinkling of the upper and lower eyelids, giving the area around the eyes a younger and more dynamic appearance. It can be carried out both to address aesthetic concerns and to correct sagging that narrows the field of vision. Because the incisions are placed in the natural crease lines, the scars become almost invisible and the results are long-lasting.
What Is Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery, known medically as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure carried out to correct the sagging, puffiness, excess skin and accumulated fat that develop in the upper and/or lower eyelids. Brought about by ageing, genetic factors, gravity and environmental influences, these changes around the eyes can leave a person looking tired, older or unhappy. Eyelid surgery restores a younger, fresher and livelier look to the eyes.
How Is Eyelid Surgery Performed?
Eyelid surgery is usually carried out under local anaesthesia with sedation. In upper eyelid surgery, excess skin, muscle and fat are removed through a fine incision placed in the natural crease of the lid. In lower eyelid surgery, the incision is made just beneath the lashes or on the inner surface of the lid, and the fat causing the puffiness is either removed or reshaped. The incisions become almost invisible as healing progresses. The operation usually takes between 1 and 2 hours and patients are most often discharged the same day.
OPERATION TIME
2-5 Hours
RECOVERY TIME
5-7 Days
ACCOMMODATION
8 Days
What Are the Types of Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery can be performed in different ways depending on the technique used and the area being targeted:
Upper Eyelid Surgery
This is performed by removing the excess skin, muscle and fat from the upper eyelid.
Lower Eyelid Surgery
This is carried out by removing or reshaping the puffiness and the excess fat in the lower eyelid.
Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty
In the lower eyelid, the incision is made on the inner surface of the lid, so no scar remains on the outside.
Laser Eyelid Surgery
This technique is performed with laser technology and involves a shorter recovery period.
Who Is Eyelid Surgery Suitable For?
Eyelid surgery is suitable for people with sagging, puffiness or excess skin around the eyes, or with a tired expression. The following groups in particular are ideal candidates for the operation:
- Those whose field of vision has narrowed because of sagging of the upper eyelid
- Those with puffiness and swelling of the lower eyelid
- Those with excess skin and wrinkling around the eyes
- Individuals in good general health with realistic expectations of the outcome
It is generally performed in people aged 35 and over, although genetic factors can make it a suitable choice at a younger age.
What to Consider After Eyelid Surgery
The recovery period after surgery matters a great deal, both for the durability of the aesthetic result and for the patient’s comfort. Mild swelling, bruising and tenderness may be present in the first few days. These usually settle within a few weeks. Keeping the head elevated as advised by the doctor, applying cold compresses and taking the prescribed medication regularly all speed up healing. Rubbing the eyes, wearing make-up and using contact lenses should be avoided for a time. Protecting the eyes from sunlight and resting them also contribute to the healing process. Sutures are usually removed after 5-7 days.
Eyelid Surgery Prices
There is no fixed price for eyelid surgery, because it is a procedure that requires individual planning and can be carried out with different techniques. Prices vary according to many factors: the extent of the operation (upper lids only, lower lids only, or both), the surgeon’s experience, the technology used, the facilities the hospital offers and whether any additional procedures are needed. Aftercare services and the support provided during recovery are also among the elements that affect the total cost. The most accurate price is given by the surgeon after a detailed examination and an individual assessment. When researching prices, it is important to consider not only the cost but also the quality of the service offered, the surgeon’s expertise and the aftercare provided. Bear in mind that eyelid surgery is a delicate procedure in both aesthetic and functional terms, and an expert surgeon should be chosen in order to achieve the best result.