Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery, is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to rejuvenate the eyes by removing excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about blepharoplasty, including its benefits, the surgical process, recovery timeline, potential risks, and essential aftercare tips.
What is a blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the appearance and functionality of the eyelids by removing excess skin, fat, and muscle. This procedure can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, depending on the patient’s needs.
Upper blepharoplasty corrects drooping upper eyelids that may obstruct vision, and lower blepharoplasty removes under-eye bags and puffiness.
While many individuals undergo eyelid surgery for cosmetic reasons to achieve a more youthful and refreshed look, it is sometimes performed for medical necessity when sagging eyelid skin impairs vision or causes discomfort.
Should I consider a blepharoplasty?
Deciding whether to undergo blepharoplasty depends on both functional and aesthetic concerns. Many individuals consider the procedure when sagging upper eyelids begin to obstruct their vision, making daily tasks such as reading or driving more difficult. Others seek eyelid surgery to address cosmetic concerns, such as a tired or aged appearance caused by excess skin, puffiness, or under-eye bags.
Eyelid surgery can provide practical benefits, including improved vision and reduced eye strain, as well as psychological advantages, such as increased self-confidence and a more youthful, refreshed look. By enhancing the eyes—one of the most expressive features of the face—this procedure can help individuals feel more comfortable in their appearance and improve their overall quality of life.
Blepharoplasty Patient Journey
If sagging or puffy eyelids are affecting your vision or self-esteem, consulting with one of our blepharoplasty consultants at The McIndoe Centre can help determine whether eyelid surgery is the right choice for you.
Our expert surgeons provide personalised consultations to assess your concerns, discuss your goals, and determine the best approach for your procedure.
Blepharoplasty Consultation
Choosing the right surgeon for your blepharoplasty is essential to achieving safe and satisfactory results. Look for a board-certified plastic or oculoplastic surgeon with extensive experience in eyelid surgery. Reviewing before-and-after photos, reading patient testimonials, and ensuring the surgeon operates in an accredited facility can also help you make an informed decision.
During the consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your eyelid structure, review your medical history, and explain the different surgical techniques available. You will also have the opportunity to ask any questions about the procedure, recovery, and expected results.
To prepare for surgery, it’s important to follow pre-operative instructions and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Mentally, setting realistic expectations and understanding the recovery process can help ensure a smooth experience.
Day of the Blepharoplasty Surgery
After arriving for your blepharoplasty surgery, the medical team will go through final pre-operative checks. The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the complexity of the surgery and your surgeon’s recommendation. The duration of the procedure varies but generally takes between 45 minutes to two hours, depending on whether you are having upper, lower, or both eyelids treated.
For upper blepharoplasty, your surgeon will make a cut in the natural crease of your eyelid and then remove any excess skin or fat. For lower blepharoplasty surgery, your surgeon will make a small incision along the border of your eyelid below your lash line to just beyond the outside edge of your eye. Any excess fat will be repositioned or removed.
Pain management during the procedure is carefully handled, ensuring you do not feel discomfort. While some swelling and mild discomfort are expected, pain is usually minimal and can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief.
Blepharoplasty Aftercare and Recovery
Recovery from blepharoplasty typically follows a structured timeline, with most patients resuming normal activities after 14 days. In the first few days after surgery, swelling and bruising are common, peaking around 48 hours before gradually subsiding. Applying cold compresses, keeping your head elevated, and taking prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief can help manage discomfort.
Stitches are usually removed after 5 to 7 days, and makeup or contact lenses should be avoided during this period to prevent irritation. It's important to rest, avoid strenuous activities for at least two weeks, and follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully.
While initial results become visible as swelling decreases, full healing can take a few months.
To maintain long-term results, protect your eyes from sun exposure, follow a good skincare routine, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. With proper care, blepharoplasty results can last 10 years or more.
Blepharoplasty Surgery Risk and Considerations
Like any surgery, blepharoplasty carries some risks, though complications are rare when performed by an experienced surgeon. Temporary side effects include swelling, bruising, mild discomfort, and temporary dry eyes, which typically resolve within a few weeks.
More uncommon risks include scarring, infection, asymmetry, or eyelid tightness, but these can often be minimised by following proper aftercare instructions. Keeping the eye area clean, using prescribed eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and protecting your eyes from sun exposure can all aid in a smooth recovery.
While mild discomfort is normal, signs of complications—such as severe pain, excessive redness, pus, or vision changes—should be reported to your surgeon immediately for further evaluation. Regular follow-up appointments will help ensure proper healing and address any concerns.
How much does Blepharoplasty Surgery Cost?
The cost of blepharoplasty can vary greatly, depending on what’s included in the package and other influencing factors, such as the complexity and the surgeon. The price of eyelid surgery at The McIndoe Centre starts from £2,260*.
*Excludes consultant and anaesthetist fees.
Why Choose The McIndoe Centre for your Blepharoplasty Surgery
Choosing The McIndoe Centre for your eyelid surgery means placing your trust in a team of highly experienced, GMC-registered surgeons who specialise in eyelid surgery.
Our state-of-the-art facility provides safe, high-quality care, ensuring your procedure is carried out to the highest medical standards. Unlike undergoing surgery abroad, where follow-up care and surgical standards may vary, choosing a trusted UK clinic minimises risks and guarantees comprehensive aftercare.
At The McIndoe Centre, we prioritise patient safety, natural-looking results, and a smooth recovery journey. If you’re considering blepharoplasty, contact The McIndoe Centre today to book a consultation to take the first step toward brighter, more youthful eyes.
Summary
Blepharoplasty is a highly effective procedure for both cosmetic enhancement and functional improvement, helping to rejuvenate the eyes and, in some cases, restore clearer vision.
Whether you're looking to correct sagging eyelids, reduce under-eye bags, or achieve a more youthful appearance, this surgery offers long-lasting results with minimal downtime.
Find out more about the McIndoe Centre
We provide outstanding patient experiences
As a nationally recognised hospital of excellence in plastic, reconstructive, ophthalmic and maxillofacial surgery, we have demonstrated ourselves to be: effective, responsive, caring, safe and well-led. Recently rated ‘good’ by the CQC, we are committed to treating our patients and each other with kindness, respect and dignity resulting in life-changing outcomes.
Patient testimonials
Find out what it’s like to be a patient, from the people who matter the most.
