Blepharoplasty in London

Is it right for you?

Blepharoplasty may be considered if your upper lids feel heavy or hooded, or you have bags, puffiness or loose skin under the eyes. It is important to have realistic expectations and to make the decision for yourself.

If your cheeks have descended, leaving the cheekbones looking flatter and the lines from nose to mouth deeper, a mid-face lift may be recommended as well.

What it involves

• Upper blepharoplasty: excess skin, and sometimes a little fat, is removed through a cut in the natural crease of the upper lid. It is usually done under local anaesthetic.

• Lower blepharoplasty: fat is removed or repositioned through a cut just below the lashes or on the inside of the lid, depending on whether skin also needs removing. Smaller cases are done under local anaesthetic; larger cases under local anaesthetic with sedation, or general anaesthetic.

• Lower blepharoplasty with mid-face lift: the cheek tissues are lifted and repositioned through the same lower lid approach.

Upper or lower blepharoplasty usually takes 1–2 hours, and both together 2–4 hours. Most eyelid surgery is carried out as a day case.

Your consultation

At your consultation Mr Oezdogan will:

• discuss what you would like to change and why

• examine you and explain which options are suitable, including non-surgical alternatives or not having surgery

• explain the benefits, risks, recovery and the possibility of further surgery in the future

• give you written information to take away

He will also ask about your eye health, including dry eyes, glasses or contact lenses and any previous eye surgery, and examine the lids, brow and cheek. If your upper lids are affecting your eyesight, he may suggest a visual field test.

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over. You will be given time to reflect before deciding, and a second consultation is offered before surgery is booked.

Risks and recovery

These are discussed in detail at your consultation and in writing. They include:

• bleeding, infection, bruising and swelling

• dry or watery eyes, and temporary difficulty closing the eyes fully

• asymmetry and visible scarring

• the lower lid pulling down (ectropion), and the possible need for further surgery

• rarely, bleeding behind the eye, which can affect vision

Stitches are removed after 5–7 days. Most people return to work after 2–3 weeks, depending on bruising, or after 3–4 weeks if a mid-face lift is added. The tissues usually settle over 4–6 weeks.

Surgery aims to give a more refreshed, less tired appearance around the eyes, but individual results vary and no particular outcome can be guaranteed.

Where surgery takes place

Consultations and eyelid surgery take place at Highgate Hospital (Nuffield Health) and The London Welbeck Hospital. Day-case procedures take place at Chase Lodge Hospital, Mill Hill.

Frequently asked questions

Is blepharoplasty painful?

Most people describe tightness and soreness rather than pain. Simple painkillers and cold compresses usually help.

What is a mid-face lift?

It lifts the cheek tissues that have descended over time. It is done through the same approach as lower blepharoplasty and is suggested when the cheekbones look flat and the nose-to-mouth lines are prominent.

Will insurance cover eyelid surgery?

Cosmetic eyelid surgery is not usually covered. If heavy upper lids block your vision, some insurers may consider funding after a visual field test, so check with your insurer before your consultation.

How do I arrange a consultation?

Send an enquiry through the Contact page.

How long do results last?

The results are long-lasting, but the skin continues to age naturally.

Can upper and lower lids be done together?

Yes. Combining them takes about 2 to 4 hours, and recovery happens at the same time.

Do you treat patients under 18?

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over.

To discuss eyelid surgery, book a consultation with Mr Oezdogan.

Discuss your options