Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is performed to help the eyelids regain a firmer, more youthful appearance. As we age, the skin around the eyes may gradually lose elasticity. With the effect of gravity, the eyelid skin can start to droop downward, which many patients find aesthetically disturbing and, in some cases, functionally limiting.
In some individuals, the degree of eyelid looseness can be significant. Others may experience under-eye bags, where aging-related changes lead to both sagging eyelids and a puffy lower eyelid appearance. In such cases, blepharoplasty may be recommended to improve the overall look of the eye area and support a more refreshed expression.
Sagging of the upper and lower eyelids may also contribute to vision-related complaints. When drooping becomes advanced, a portion of the visual field may be partially covered by excess eyelid skin. For this reason, blepharoplasty planning is individualized, based on each patient's anatomy, needs, and clinical findings.
Depending on the severity of sagging, the amount of excess skin to be removed can vary. If under-eye bags are present, both concerns may often be addressed in a single session. In lower eyelid surgery, the protective membrane over the herniated fat pads can be reinforced and, when necessary, excess fat tissue can be reduced or repositioned. This may result in a more balanced eyelid contour, while also supporting a more comfortable and open visual experience.
What Are the Signs of Aging Around the Eyes?
Aging changes in both women and men are often most noticeable in the face. The eyelids are among the areas that can make a person appear older or more tired. Common age-related changes around the eyelids include:
- Under-eye puffiness (eye bags)
- Dark circles and skin discoloration under the eyes
- Drooping of the upper eyelid due to skin and muscle laxity
- Wrinkles on the eyelid skin
- Lines at the outer corners of the eyes, commonly called crow's feet
- A facial expression that appears tired or fatigued
Not all aging signs can be completely eliminated. However, treating the eyelids-one of the most attention-drawing areas of the face-may provide a noticeable improvement and a more youthful look.
Are Blepharoplasty Results Permanent?
One of the most frequently asked questions is whether the results are permanent. It is important to note that eyelid surgery does not stop the aging process. Instead, it aims to reduce the visible effects of aging and improve eyelid appearance.
After surgery, the eyelids can look younger and more rested. However, as time passes, some laxity may gradually return due to natural tissue aging and gravity. In many patients, the results may last approximately 5 to 8 years, although this can vary depending on skin quality, lifestyle, and the age at which the surgery is performed.
What to Consider Before Eyelid Surgery
For a safer procedure and smoother recovery, pre-operative preparation is important. Patients should inform the surgeon about:
- Any existing medical conditions
- All medications used regularly
- Any recent antibiotic use
Because it may increase bleeding risk, blood-thinning medications should generally be discontinued around 15 days before surgery, under the guidance of a physician.
Smoking and tobacco products may also delay healing and increase complication risk. For this reason, it is commonly recommended to stop smoking at least 3 weeks before surgery. Following your surgeon's instructions closely helps support a safer recovery and better aesthetic outcomes.
Will Eyelid Surgery Leave Scars?
To remove excess skin, eyelid surgery requires an incision. Therefore, a light scar may remain; however, the surgical technique is designed to keep scars as discreet as possible.
- In upper eyelid surgery, the incision is usually placed within the natural eyelid crease, where it becomes less noticeable over time.
- In lower eyelid surgery, the incision is typically made just below the eyelashes. The outer extension may blend with natural skin lines.
In the early period, scars may appear slightly red, but they tend to fade gradually and become closer to normal skin tone. The eyelid area is also known to be one of the body regions that usually heals with minimal scarring, so most patients do not find scars cosmetically concerning.
Who Can Have Eyelid Surgery?
To be eligible for blepharoplasty, a patient should not have any condition that prevents surgery. Eyelid surgery is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, therefore the procedure is usually planned after these periods.
Blepharoplasty is most commonly performed for patients with eyelid drooping or under-eye bagging, which becomes more frequent after the age of 35. However, the decision is not based only on age, but also on clinical findings and individual anatomy.
In general, the blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) process can be summarized as follows:
- The procedure may be performed under local anesthesia or intravenous sedation.
- Due to the anesthetic effect, the patient does not feel pain during the operation.
- Depending on the patient's concerns and clinical findings, the surgeon may treat only the upper eyelids or only the lower eyelids.
- When needed, it is possible to address both upper and lower eyelids in the same session.
- Excess skin is removed through carefully planned incisions.
- The procedure is completed by closing the incision area with sutures.
- The average duration of surgery is typically between 1 and 1.5 hours, although this may vary depending on the surgical plan.
- The operation usually does not require hospitalization, and many patients can be discharged on the same day.
- Mild side effects such as a light headache or nausea may occur temporarily due to anesthesia or sedation.
After the Procedure (Recovery After Blepharoplasty)
Patients can benefit from eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) when the eyelid skin becomes loose or droopy over time. Below is an overview of what patients commonly experience after the procedure:
- The early recovery period after eyelid surgery is generally comfortable and manageable for most patients.
- Depending on the extent of the procedure, mild swelling and bruising around the eyes may occur.
- Since swelling and bruising are temporary, they usually resolve on their own and do not require intervention.
- Some patients may experience dryness or a mild burning sensation in the eyes.
- Temporary blurred vision may occur in the short term.
- Increased light sensitivity may be noticed for a limited time.
- Tearing may increase during the first days.
- In the first few days, patients may have difficulty fully closing the eyelids.
- These effects are most commonly seen within the first week and typically improve spontaneously.
- Sutures are usually removed within 5 to 7 days.
- During this period, it is important to protect the eye area from any impact or trauma.
- The eyes should not be rubbed, and the incision areas should not be exposed to pressure or friction.
Returning to Daily Life After Eyelid Surgery
Thanks to modern surgical techniques, both upper eyelid blepharoplasty and lower eyelid blepharoplasty can be completed in a relatively short time. As a result, the return-to-work and social recovery timeline is also usually brief.
Most patients can return to work and daily activities within approximately 3 days, depending on individual healing and the type of procedure performed.
Patients who wear contact lenses can usually start using them again about one week after surgery.
Overall, blepharoplasty recovery is considered comfortable, and patients typically do not experience a difficult or painful healing period. For individuals concerned about droopy eyelids, eyelid sagging, or under-eye bags, this procedure can offer a noticeable improvement in facial appearance and eye comfort.
To learn more about eyelid surgery or to request an appointment, you can contact our clinic through the communication details on the website.
