Blepharoplasty: Upper eyelid surgery

Eyelid surgery is also known as “blepharoplasty” or an “eyelift.” It can be performed on the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, both upper and lower eyelids or in combination with other facial rejuvenation procedures.

Our eyes are one of our first facial features to show the signs of ageing. As we get older our skin loses some shape and tone. This can result in the skin around the eyes particularly in the upper lid area to sag and the fat around the eyes can appear to “bulge” out. Excess skin and or fat can add to an aged appearance and also sometimes be difficult to smoothly apply makeup on. On the upper eyelid this can sometimes result in a hooded appearance. In some cases the excess sagging of an upper eyelid can begin to obstruct the field of vision.

An Upper Blepharoplasty operation addresses this excess skin and sometimes fat and muscle that occurs as a result of ageing. The aim of this procedure is to achieve a rejuvenated “more wide awake” look around the eyes. However, it will not remove the “crow’s feet” wrinkles on the side of the eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the procedure involve?

A local (awake) or general anaesthetic (unconscious) may be used and this procedure is usually performed as a day case.

For upper eyelid surgery, an incision is made in the fold of skin above the eye so that the resultant scar sits in this natural crease.

What are the risks associated with blepharoplasty?

Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty surgery is a commonly performed and low risk procedure. Complications are rare however it is important to be aware of the side effects associated with the procedure as well as the the potential risks

Specific Side Effects of Upper Blepahroplasty:

Soreness - usually treated by taking painkillers for the first few days
Bruising and swelling - this should be expected for up to at least 3-4 weeks after the operation.
Dry and itchiness of the eye may be present for a couple of weeks and sometimes this can lead to conjunctivitis,
Watery eyes
Blurred vision or double vision for a few days (due to swelling of the muscles) and sensitivity to light for a few weeks

Most of these side effects or initial complaints subside in the first few weeks after surgery but as such patients are advised to avoid eye makeup and avoid wearing contact lenses for the first 2 weeks after surgery.

What complications can arise from the surgery?

Most patients undergoing upper eyelid blepharoplasty are not affected. However, no procedure is risk free and Mr Sharma feels it is important that all his patients are equally aware of potential benefits as well as the risks and complications of each operation so that they can make an informed choice about whether to proceed.

General complications or risks of any operation include excessive bleeding during or soon after an operation, infection, scarring and an unexpected reaction to the anaesthetic. These complications are rare and Mr Sharma uses techniques to minimise these risks for his patients.

Specific complaints or risks following upper blepharoplasty surgery can include haematoma following bleeding, scar thickening and redness and delayed healing. Long term blurred or double vision and complications that result in loss of vision are extremely rare.

Where can I find out more about blepharoplasty?

Download a BAAPS patient information leaflet for blepharoplasty

Upper Blepharoplasty Diagram

Blepharoplasty

HOSPITAL STAY:	Daycase usually
SURGERY TIME:	60-90 mins
ANAESTHETIC:	Local or General
SHOWER/BATH:	Shower after 2 days but keep dressings dry
BACK TO WORK:	1 week if office based otherwise up to 6 weeks
DRIVING:	1-2 weeks, depends on ability to perform emergency stop safely and comfortably and no residual visual issues
EXERCISE/GYM:	6 weeks usually
COLD COMPRESS:	1 week

Upper eyelid surgery/Blepharoplasty

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find out more about blepharoplasty?

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