Blepharoplasty

What is Blepharoplasty?

The skin around our eyes is delicate. That’s why it can lose elasticity and firmness over time, giving us a tired or aged appearance. Blepharoplasty is just the technical term for upper or lower eyelid surgery. It’s a procedure to rejuvenate the appearance of the eyes by carefully removing small areas of skin, fat, or muscle. This is localised to the upper or lower eyelids.

This procedure can address droopy eyelids, puffy under-eye bags, and wrinkles, helping to restore a more youthful and refreshed look. Here’s what it can do for patients:

• Enhances the natural contours of the eyes.
• Reduces puffiness and under-eye bags.
• Improves vision impaired by sagging upper eyelids.
• Boosts self-esteem with a rejuvenated appearance.

It’s a minimally invasive procedure, and it’s tailored to your personal needs, ensuring natural-looking results.

How Blepharoplasty Works

During a blepharoplasty, a skilled surgeon makes careful incisions where the natural folds of the eyelids are. This will minimise visible scarring. The procedure typically involves:

• Removing or redistributing excess skin, fat, and muscle.
• Creating a smoother appearance by tightening the skin.
• Closing incisions with fine sutures to promote optimal healing.

The surgery is usually performed at our clinic in Leeds under local anaesthesia with sedation, so you’ll be comfortable throughout the process. Recovery is straightforward, with most patients resuming normal activities within one to two weeks.

What to Expect When Receiving Blepharoplasty

Before: You’ll begin with a detailed consultation from our cosmetic surgeon to determine your suitability. At the consultation, we'll discuss your goals, medical history, and any risks.

During: The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours under local anaesthesia with sedation. If the procedure is more complex, you may be given general anaesthesia. Incisions are carefully placed in the eyelids' natural creases to minimise visible scarring.

After: Mild swelling or bruising may occur, but most patients return to regular activities within 7-10 days. Final results are noticeable within a few weeks as healing progresses.

Risks and Complications of Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is generally safe, but like all surgeries, it carries some risks, including:

• Temporary dryness or irritation of the eyes.
• Minor scarring along the incision lines.
• Infection or changes in eyelid symmetry, both of which are rare.

Our experienced team is there with you every step of the way for a safe, comfortable experience.

How to Recover from Blepharoplasty

Recovery is typically smooth, with most patients experiencing minimal discomfort. Follow these tips for optimal healing:

• Use eye drops or ointments, as prescribed. These will keep the area moisturised.
• Avoid strenuous activities for two weeks.
• Protect your eyes from sunlight with sunglasses.

Our team supports your recovery and answers any questions during your healing process.

References: 

British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons:

NHS Blepharoplasty Information‍