Upper Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

What is an Upper Blepharoplasty?

An Upper Blepharoplasty, also known as an Eye Lift, is a popular cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess skin from the eyelid area. This can result in improved sight by clearing the field of vision, whilst enhancing and rejuvenating appearance to create a more youthful look.

An Upper Blepharoplasty is carried out under local anaesthetic at our state-of-the-art day case medical facility in Leeds and Sheffield.

A typical procedure takes approximately one hour and healing can take up to two weeks. Following surgery the patient can leave the clinic shortly after and will continue to receive excellent aftercare.

Who should have an Upper Blepharoplasty?

An Upper Blepharoplasty is suitable for both men and women who have:

• drooping or hooded upper eyelids that make them look tired or older than they perhaps feel
• excess skin that interferes with their field of vision and thus disrupting their sight
• puffiness or heaviness in the upper eyelid area due to fat deposits
• a desire to achieve a rejuvenated and youthful appearance

Upper Blepharoplasty and treating medical conditions

Whilst an Upper Blepharoplasty is commonly associated with cosmetic surgery to create a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance, the procedure can be effective in treating several medical conditions too including Ptosis, Dermatochalasis, Chronic eyelid irritation or discomfort or headaches or brow strain. In addition, by removing excess skin on the upper eyelids can reduce any droop and increase the field of vision and reduce the sensation of pressure or fatigue.

What to Expect When Having an Upper Blepharoplasty

The Upper Blepharoplasty procedure is designed to remove excess skin or fat from the upper eyelids.

The first step is to have a consultation with the plastic surgeon. During this initial session, the surgeon will seek to understand your specific goals and any concerns you may have. Some patients may simply want a subtle enhancement to their appearance whereas others are seeking a corrective procedure to address a specific medical condition.

During the consultation there will be a detailed examination of the eye, eyelid and facial structure. The outcome is a personalised treatment plan developed specifically for each patient.

On the day of the procedure the consultant will make precise markings around the eye area to ensure the incisions are discreetly placed. Following local aesthetic, the excess skin, muscle and fat is removed or repositioned to address the patients’ concerns. Following surgery, hidden dissolvable stitches that naturally absorb into the skin are applied and thus remove the need for the stitches to be removed.

An Upper Blepharoplasty typically takes one hour although the procedure may take longer depending on the complexity. After surgery you will be fully mobile although you may initially experience blurred vision which is caused by the antibiotic ointment which is applied to the eye surface to protect it from drying out. There will be some swelling and bruising and this should diminish within one to two weeks – it is recommended that no strenuous exercise takes place during this recovery period.

The ointment provided will need to be applied four times daily and your consultant will advise how many days of post-treatment will be required. Depending on your specific procedure, the consultant may also prescribe eye drops to alleviate any dryness which can be experienced during recovery.

Once the swelling has fully diminished, the contours of your eyelids will be smoother and more defined, giving your face a more refreshed appearance.