Blepharoplasty: Rejuvenate the Eyes, Refresh Your Appearance

As we age, the delicate skin around the eyes is often one of the first areas to show signs of ageing. Loose skin, hooded eyelids, puffiness, and under-eye bags can cause a tired or aged appearance—even when you feel well-rested. Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery or eyelid lift surgery, is a highly effective solution to address these concerns.

In this article, Mr Jonathan Dunne, Consultant Plastic Surgeon, outlines what blepharoplasty involves, who it may benefit, and what patients can expect from the procedure and recovery.

What Is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. It is designed to:

• Remove excess or sagging skin or muscle

• Reposition or remove fatty deposits

The goal is to achieve a naturally refreshed look, restoring a more youthful and rested appearance to the eye area—without altering the patient’s unique facial character.

Who Is a Candidate for Blepharoplasty?

You may be suitable for eyelid surgery if you experience any of the following:

• Loose or overhanging skin on the upper eyelids, which may even affect your vision

• Puffiness or bags under the eyes, giving a consistently tired appearance

• Excess skin on the lower eyelids

Blepharoplasty is typically recommended for individuals who are:

• In good general health

• Free from serious eye conditions

• Have considered expectations about the results

Jonathan always has two consultations prior to a blepharoplasty, as it is essential to assess your facial structure, brow position, skin quality, eye history, and medical history, and to tailor the most appropriate treatment plan for your needs. Assessing the brow position and the mid-face is essential to determine if blepharoplasty is the correct procedure or if additional procedures are required to achieve the desired result. They include a brow lift, fat transfer, mid-face lift and resurfacing laser to boost skin quality.

The Procedure: What to Expect

Upper blepharoplasty is usually performed as a day case, under local anaesthesia, although occasionally with sedation or general anaesthesia. Lower blepharoplasty is normally performed under general anaesthesia. Additional procedures are commonly performed, including a brow lift, fat transfer and laser to boost skin quality. 

Upper Eyelid Surgery:

• Incisions are made in the natural crease of the upper eyelid

• Excess skin and fat are removed or repositioned

• The incision is closed with fine, precise sutures, leaving minimal visible scarring, hidden in the natural crease

The procedure typically takes 60 minutes, with additional time for anaesthesia and recovery.

Lower Eyelid Surgery:

• An incision may be made just below the lower lash line (subciliary), or inside the lower eyelid (transconjunctival approach) for a scarless approach

• Fat may be removed or redistributed to smooth under-eye hollows or puffiness

• Skin can be tightened to enhance lower lid shape and appearance via a subciliary approach

• Additional support to the lower eyelid by tightening the ligament (lateral canthopexy) may be performed in a subciliary lower blepharoplasty

The procedure typically takes between 60–120 minutes, depending on the extent of surgery, with additional time for anaesthesia and recovery.

Recovery and Results

Recovery from blepharoplasty occurs predominantly over a few weeks. Most patients experience:

• Swelling and some bruising around the eyes (for 1–2 weeks)

• Temporary dryness or tightness in the eyelid area, especially with lower lid blepharoplasty

• Sutures removed within 7 days (if non-dissolvable)

• At 4-6 weeks, most people go back to attending social occasions as signs of surgery have reduced considerably

To support healing, patients are advised to:

• Use cold compresses in the first 48 hours

• Sleep with the head elevated

• Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for 2 weeks

• Follow the post-operative skin care recommendations and scar management

Long-Lasting Results

Results are typically long-lasting, especially when combined with a good skincare routine and sun protection. Patients notice a brighter, more alert appearance, with smoother contours, improved eyelid definition and opening up of the eyes.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

If you’re considering blepharoplasty to refresh your appearance or restore eyelid function, Mr Jonathan Dunne offers expert guidance and care throughout your surgical journey—from consultation to recovery.

Book a consultation or explore more about facial aesthetic procedures on our treatments page.