As we age, our tissues change. There’s reduction in collagen and elasticity of the skin, causing skin to droop or sag.  This can happen anywhere on the face, including your eyelids. Around the eyelids, we also may see prolapsed (displaced) fat, which can appear as noticeable bulges, accompanied by some loose skin and/or wrinkles.

Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is an operation to enhance the appearance of the eyes, and it may also improve peripheral vision. It’s performed to remove excess skin and/or remove or redistribute fat from the upper and/or lower eyelids.

If you’ve been experiencing vision problems from excess skin, a tired appearance from bulges and under-eye bags, or just thinking about refreshing your appearance to look great for your age, keep reading to find out more about Blepharoplasty surgery and whether it could be right for you.

What are the benefits of this procedure?
Whether your desire is medical or cosmetic, the benefits of Blepharoplasty can include improved vision, tighter lifted skin and an improvement in facial appearance.

Who are the best candidates for Blepharoplasty surgery?
The first way to get an indication if you are a good candidate for this procedure is to look in the mirror.  If you feel like you’re looking tired, or older than you really are, or if you have excess skin or fat above/below the eyelid – Blepharoplasty surgery could help.  If you’d like to discuss your options, the next step is to book a consultation with one of our expert facial plastic surgeons to find out if this surgery is right for you.

Most patients who undergo Blepharoplasty surgery are over 35 years of age.  However, drooping eyelids can be hereditary, so you may consider Blepharoplasty at a younger age if droopy eyelids and/or puffy bags under your eyes runs in the family and you’re seeing signs of this earlier.

Are there any complications/risks involved in this surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved.  Our expert team of surgeons will ensure you are fully educated on the surgery, and how to care for your wounds post-treatment. All our surgical bookings include post-treatment care ensuring you’re in safe hands.

Is there much pain and/or discomfort associated with this surgery?
Upper Blepharoplasty (upper eyelids) can be performed as daycase surgery under a local anaesthetic and can be performed at a number of Skin Institute clinics. Some patients benefit from the relaxing effects of oral sedation similar to a sleeping pill taken 30-45 minutes prior to the surgery. You will able to leave shortly after the procedure but someone must drive you home.

Lower Blepharoplasty (lower eyelids) must be done under IV sedation or general anaesthetic.  Your surgeon may recommend you stay overnight in hospital depending on your specific surgery.

How long do the effects of Blepharoplasty last for? Will further surgery be required later?
Ageing continues after Blepharoplasty, but typically the majority of patients having this surgery do not require repeat surgery at a later date.

If you’ve previously had Blepharoplasty surgery and feel that sagging skin is becoming an issue again, book a consultation with one of our expert surgeons to discuss your concerns and receive treatment recommendations specific to your needs.

Are there any non–surgical alternatives to the surgery?
Depending on how severe the excess skin is, some Appearance Medicine treatments including dermal fillers may be a suitable alternative.

Are there any cosmetic surgical procedures that can be combined with Blepharoplasty surgery to get a better result?
If you just choose to rejuvenate your eyes (with Blepharoplasty surgery), you will see improvement of your overall appearance and should look less tired and more youthful.

If you wish, you can further enhance Blepharoplasty surgery with other procedures, including a brow lift, facelift or chin and jaw liposuction.  This can be discussed with our surgeons during your consultation and they will be able to provide you with expert recommendations on your options and the expected results.

Who should I consult with?
If you’d like to investigate non-surgical options, we recommend booking a free 30-minute consultation with one of our experienced Appearance Medicine nurses to discuss your concerns and needs.  They will provide you with treatment recommendations specific to your individual needs and if appropriate, can refer you onto one of our expert surgeons to discuss surgical options like Blepharoplasty.

Alternatively, if you’re interested in speaking directly to a cosmetic surgeon regarding Blepharoplasty surgery, you can book a surgical consultation to discuss your needs.

Are there any factors that could rule someone out from having this surgery?
There are certain eye and medical conditions that may mean Blepharoplasty is not recommended. These conditions will be identified and discussed at your consultation with the surgeon.