Facial Surgery
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Upper or lower eyelid surgery for excess skin and fat bulging, restoring a more rested appearance without changing the character of the eyes.
Overview
Blepharoplasty addresses excess upper eyelid skin, lower eyelid fat bulging and bags, or both. The aim may be aesthetic, or functional when hooded skin encroaches on the field of vision.
The goal is a natural, rested look that preserves the original shape of the eye and normal eyelid closure.
Who May Benefit
- Adults with excess or hooded upper eyelid skin
- Patients with lower eyelid bags or fat bulging
- Patients whose hooded skin restricts their field of vision
- Healthy adults with realistic expectations
Conditions Treated
- Upper eyelid skin excess (dermatochalasis)
- Upper or lower eyelid fat prolapse
- Under-eye bags
- Eyelid asymmetry
Diagnosis
Assessment covers skin, fat and eyelid laxity, as well as brow position, since a low brow is often the real cause of upper lid heaviness. Skin excess is distinguished from true eyelid ptosis caused by levator weakness, which requires a different repair. Dry eye symptoms, glasses and contact lens use are reviewed, and an ophthalmology opinion is requested when needed.
Treatment Planning
The amount of skin and fat to remove or reposition is planned conservatively, as over-resection can hollow the eyes or impair closure. Combining surgery with a brow lift, and non-surgical options for some lower lid concerns, are discussed when relevant.
Surgical Overview
In the upper lid, the incision is hidden in the natural crease, excess skin is removed and fat is addressed as needed. In the lower lid, surgery may be performed through the inside of the lid with no visible scar, or just below the lashes when skin tightening is required. Upper lid surgery is commonly performed under local anaesthesia; anaesthesia for lower lid or combined procedures is chosen case by case.
Recovery
Swelling and bruising around the eyes are common and settle over one to two weeks. Sutures are usually removed after a few days, with cold compresses and lubricating drops as directed. Many patients return to desk work within about a week, and the scar continues to fade over several months.
Risks & Considerations
All surgery carries risk. Potential risks are discussed in detail during consultation, and may include:
- Swelling and bruising
- Temporary dry or irritated eyes
- Temporary difficulty closing the eyes fully
- Lower eyelid malposition
- Asymmetry
- Bleeding behind the eye — rare, but an emergency requiring immediate review
Frequently Asked Questions
Will eyelid surgery leave a visible scar?
Upper lid scars sit in the natural crease and usually become inconspicuous. Lower lid surgery may leave no external scar when performed from inside the lid.
Is my heavy eyelid caused by skin or by my brow?
This is one of the key questions in assessment. A low brow pushes eyelid skin down, and treating the eyelid alone may not give the expected result.
Can upper and lower eyelids be treated together?
Yes, both can be treated in one session when appropriate, depending on the examination, general health and preference.
The information on this website is for general educational purposes and does not replace a consultation. Suitability for any procedure, and its potential benefits and risks, can only be determined following an individual clinical assessment. Individual results vary.
Related Procedures
Discuss your options with Dr. Bakri
A consultation is the first step toward an accurate diagnosis and an individual plan.