Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)
Op. Dr. Halil Işık, Göztepe Prof. Dr. Süleyman Yalçın City Hospital, Kadıköy.
Medical content: Op. Dr. Halil Işık · Last updated: 6 October 2026
Blepharoplasty is surgery that removes or repositions excess eyelid skin and, when needed, fat pads. It may be requested for a tired appearance, hooded upper lids, or lower-lid bags. Functional issues such as visual-field limitation from excess upper-lid skin are also evaluated.
Who it may be for
Adults with redundant eyelid skin, puffiness, or lid malposition may be candidates after examination. Uncontrolled medical conditions, active eye disease, or unrealistic expectations can delay or exclude surgery. Smoking and blood-thinning medicines are reviewed before any plan.
How the procedure is performed
The procedure is usually done under local anaesthesia with sedation or under general anaesthesia, depending on the plan. Incisions follow natural creases. Excess skin is trimmed; fat may be reduced or repositioned. Lower lids may be approached through the skin or from inside the eyelid. Fine sutures close the wounds.
Recovery
Swelling and bruising are expected for 1–2 weeks. Cold compresses, head elevation and prescribed drops or ointments support healing. Most people return to desk work in about a week; strenuous activity waits longer. Scars fade over months.
Risks and consultation
Possible issues include asymmetry, dry eye, lid malposition, bleeding, infection, visible scars and need for revision. Suitability is decided only after examination by a plastic surgeon.
Frequently asked questions
- Is blepharoplasty only cosmetic?
- No. When excess upper-lid skin limits vision, the operation may also have a functional aim. This is assessed clinically.
- Will the result look natural?
- The goal is a rested appearance, not a changed identity. Tissue quality and brow position influence what can be achieved.
- How long do results last?
- Ageing continues. Many people are satisfied for years; further ageing of the brow or midface can change the look over time.
- Can it be combined with a brow lift?
- Sometimes a heavy brow, not only the eyelid, is the main issue. Combination is discussed when examination supports it.
Related pages
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This page is for general information. Your plan, if any, is decided after examination.
Contact the hospitalThis content is educational and does not replace a medical examination. Results vary. No outcome can be guaranteed.

