Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)

What it is

Blepharoplasty reshapes the eyelids by removing loose skin and bulging fat that can make eyes look tired or hooded. Upper lid surgery can restore a clearer field of vision when skin hangs over the lashes. Lower lid surgery targets bags and wrinkles, though results must be planned carefully to avoid exposing too much of the eye surface.

Who it helps

People with droopy upper lids that interfere with driving, reading or peripheral vision may benefit functionally. Others choose surgery mainly for appearance when lids look puffy or aged. It is not the same as ptosis surgery, which tightens the muscle that lifts the lid. Your surgeon will check lid height, tear drainage, eye dryness and overall health before recommending blepharoplasty.

What happens on the day

The procedure is usually done as a day case with local anaesthetic and sedation, or sometimes general anaesthetic.

• Marks drawn along natural eyelid creases before surgery
• Small incisions hidden in creases to remove excess skin and fat
• Fine stitches removed or dissolving within about a week
• Ointment and cold compresses to reduce swelling afterwards

Recovery and risks

Bruising and swelling are common for one to two weeks. Most people return to desk work within a week and avoid strenuous exercise for a few weeks. Dry eye can temporarily worsen. Rare risks include infection, scarring, asymmetry, difficulty closing the eyes fully, and vision problems from corneal exposure — your surgeon will discuss these beforehand.