Eyelid Aesthetics (Blepharoplasty)

The eye area is one of the most critical regions that determine facial expression. Aging, environmental factors, genetic structure, and lifestyle habits can cause sagging, wrinkles, puffiness, and a tired appearance of the eyelids over time. Eyelid aesthetics (Blepharoplasty) is a surgical procedure that corrects these deformities, providing both functional and aesthetic improvement.

Blepharoplasty corrects the droopy appearance by removing excess skin and muscle tissue from the upper eyelid; in the lower eyelid, the fat pads causing puffiness are repositioned or removed. After the procedure, the eye area gains a younger, more refreshed, and brighter appearance.

Who Is Eyelid Aesthetics Suitable For?

Individuals experiencing the following conditions are suitable candidates for blepharoplasty:

Excess skin and folding of the upper eyelid
Under-eye bags, swelling, or hollowness
Upper eyelid drooping that narrows the field of vision
Genetically low-set eyelids
Pronounced wrinkles and a tired expression around the eyes

The procedure can be performed on both men and women who do not have a medical condition preventing surgery. There is no age limit; it can be performed even in the 20s due to genetic puffiness.

What Are the Signs of Eyelid Aging?

Excess skin, sagging, and drooping of the upper eyelid
Fat bags under the eyes
Wrinkles around the eyes and crow’s feet
Laxity and excess skin of the lower eyelid
A tired, dull, and aged appearance of the eyes

What Should Be Considered Before Eyelid Aesthetics?

Aspirin, blood thinners, and similar medications should be discontinued 10–15 days before surgery.
Blood-thinning medications should be stopped under medical supervision.
Herbal teas, vitamins, and supplements should be discontinued 1–2 weeks beforehand.
Smoking should be stopped at least 4 2–3 weeks before the procedure, as it delays wound healing.
Patients with dry eyes should be evaluated before surgery.
All regularly used medications should be shared with the surgeon.

How Is Upper Eyelid Surgery Performed?

Upper eyelid surgery is performed through a fine incision made along the natural crease of the eyelid. Excess skin, muscle, and if necessary fat tissue are removed, resulting in a tighter and more youthful appearance.

Steps Applied in Upper Eyelid Surgery

Since the incision is made along the natural fold, the scar is not noticeable.
Excess skin and muscle are removed.
Fat pads may be reshaped.
The tissue is closed with fine aesthetic sutures.

Upper eyelid surgery can be combined with brow lift or forehead lift procedures to achieve more comprehensive rejuvenation.

How Is Lower Eyelid Surgery Performed?

Puffiness of the lower eyelid occurs due to aging and downward displacement of fat pads. Depending on the need, the procedure can be performed using two techniques:

1. Subciliary Incision

Through an incision made just below the eyelashes, excess skin and muscle are removed, and fat pads are repositioned.

2. Transconjunctival (Internal) Method

No skin incision is made. The procedure is performed from the inner part of the eyelid, targeting only the fat pads. It is preferred in younger patients.

If under-eye hollowness persists, a complementary procedure such as fat injection may be applied.

How Long Does Eyelid Aesthetics Take?

Upper eyelid surgery takes an average of 30–45 minutes, while lower eyelid surgery is completed within 45–60 minutes. If both procedures are performed together, the duration may be longer.

Recovery Process After Eyelid Aesthetics

The recovery process is quite comfortable and generally progresses quickly.

First 3 Days

Swelling, bruising, and redness are normal.
Cold compresses help reduce these symptoms.

1st Week

Stitches are removed on days 5–7.
Bruising and swelling largely subside.

Weeks 2–3

The patient fully returns to social life.
Scars gradually fade.

1–3 Months

Scars blend with skin tone.
The eyelids achieve a natural appearance.

What Should Be Considered After Eyelid Aesthetics?

Intense physical activity, sports, and heavy lifting are prohibited during the first week.
Sleeping with the head elevated reduces swelling.
It is recommended to avoid water contact with the face while showering.
The face should not be exposed to water during the first two days after surgery.
Sun protection is essential, and sunglasses should be worn.
If contact lenses are used, they should be avoided for a short period.

Will There Be Scars After Eyelid Aesthetics?

Yes, as with any surgical procedure, minimal scarring occurs in blepharoplasty. However, since the eyelid skin is the thinnest skin on the body, scars largely fade within 1–3 months and become very difficult to notice after 1 year.

Is Blepharoplasty Surgery Risky?

When performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, risks are extremely low. The most common temporary effects are:

Swelling and bruising
Temporary dryness sensation
Mild bleeding

Rare complications include infection and excessive bleeding; however, these risks are minimal with proper surgical technique and appropriate care.

Is Eyelid Aesthetics Permanent?

Blepharoplasty results are long-lasting. On average, the effect lasts 10–15 years. However, since the aging process does not stop, mild sagging may occur again in later years.