What Is Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)?
Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is a surgical procedure in which excess skin, fat, and muscle tissue that accumulates in the upper and/or lower eyelids is removed or repositioned. The goal is to reduce drooping, puffiness, and hollowing to achieve a fresher and more youthful appearance.
Significant drooping of the upper eyelid can narrow the visual field in some patients; in such cases, it may provide functional relief in addition to aesthetic benefits. The procedure is planned individually, and incision lines are concealed within the natural eyelid creases.
How Is Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) Performed?
Blepharoplasty can be performed under local or general anesthesia. The surgeon removes or repositions excess skin, fat, and muscle tissue based on eyelid anatomy. Since incision lines are placed within natural folds, scar visibility is reduced.
Lower Eyelid Surgery
Through an incision close to the lash line, under-eye bags and sagging are corrected. Fat tissue is balanced to achieve a smoother contour.
Upper Eyelid Surgery
Excess skin is removed through an incision in the eyelid crease, and eyelid opening is balanced. After healing, the scar is concealed within the eyelid fold.
Preparation Before Eyelid Surgery
Pre-Op Checklist
- If you use blood thinners, they are adjusted under your physician’s guidance.
- Smoking and alcohol should be stopped, as they can negatively affect healing.
- On the day of surgery, do not wear makeup; the eye area should be clean.
- Tests and medical evaluations are planned in advance.
Planning
Eyelid measurements and facial proportions are analyzed; upper, lower, or combined procedures are determined.
Consultation With Your Surgeon
Expectations, risks, and the recovery process should be discussed in detail with your surgeon.
Eyelid Surgery Process
The blepharoplasty process includes consultation, surgical planning, and post-operative follow-ups. The procedure usually takes 1–2 hours, and most patients are discharged the same day.
Consultation
Eyelid anatomy is assessed, and the need for upper and/or lower eyelid surgery is determined.
Surgical Procedure
Excess tissue is removed or repositioned, and incision lines are placed within natural folds.
Follow-Up & Recovery
Swelling and bruising are monitored in the first days, and healing is evaluated during scheduled follow-ups.
Natural results with proper planning
Which blepharoplasty approach is right for you?
Upper, lower, or combined eyelid procedures are planned based on facial proportions and individual needs.
A More Refreshed Look
By reducing drooping and puffiness, facial expression can appear more energetic.
- Helps reduce a tired look
- A more balanced eyelid contour
Functional Relief
If upper eyelid drooping narrows the visual field, surgery may help improve comfort and visibility.
- May open the visual field
- May reduce eye fatigue
Discreet Scars
Because incisions are placed in natural eyelid creases, scars are typically well concealed.
- Aesthetic suturing techniques
- Gradual healing
Recovery After Blepharoplasty
Swelling and bruising may occur around the eyes after surgery. These findings typically decrease in the first weeks and improve noticeably within 2–3 weeks.
- In the first days, cold compresses and keeping the head elevated may help reduce swelling.
- Prescribed eye drops and ointments should be used regularly.
- Avoid heavy exercise, swimming/sea, and makeup during the first week.
- Sunglasses are recommended for sun protection.
- Healing is evaluated during follow-up visits, and stitches are removed as planned.
During recovery, personal care and following your doctor’s instructions support a more comfortable and faster healing process.