As you age the skin around your eyes loses its elasticity. It happens to every woman to some extent but the effects may be more noticeable and pronounced for some women. You may develop loose folds of skin on the upper eyelids and deepening creases on the lower lids. As well as loose skin, the muscles in this area slacken so that any fat bulges forward, giving the appearance of bagginess. When all this is combined it gives you a darkened, tired look around the eyes which effects your overall appearance. It can make you look significantly older than you are or feel. Cosmetic eyelid surgery is a very popular procedure helping women to achieve a more youthful, alert appearance. Needless to say, it can also make you feel much better about how you look.
The eyelid reduction operation, also known as blepharoplasty, removes the excess skin and/or fat from around your eyes so that you have a more alert and youthful appearance. Eyelid reduction can be carried out on the upper, lower or both eyelids.
During the blepharoplasty operation your plastic surgeon will make cuts around the natural lines of your eyelids and remove the excess skin and fat.
Cosmetic eyelid surgery is usually performed under a general anaesthetic and you will normally need to stay in hospital for one or two nights.
If you have eyelid reduction only the wrinkles on the area within the bony margins of your eye sockets will be removed. Crow's feet and other wrinkles around the area will not be improved by the procedure. Dark colouring beneath the eyes is also not lightened by eyelid reduction.
You will be advised to keep your head elevated for a few days after eyelid surgery to minimise any swelling. Your eyes may be watery and appear bruised for a few weeks after your operation. Any scarring will be pink and visible for a few months, although eventually this tends to fade and becomes almost invisible and your consultant will discuss this with you prior to your operation.
All operations carry risks as well as benefits. The chance of complications following blepharoplasty depends on the type of operation and other factors such as your general health. Your plastic surgeon will explain how the risks apply to you.
Next steps
For more information on cosmetic eyelid surgery, to arrange your initial consultation with a cosmetic surgeon, or to book a free cosmetic nurse appointment, call our cosmetic surgery team on
0800 434 6644 or
enquire online.
