The Eyelid Lift Procedure
As we get older, the eyes are often the first place to show visible signs of the ageing process, as the surrounding skin and muscles start to lose elasticity and relax. This causes both the upper and lower eyelids to sag. Eyebags appear below the eyes and the delicate skin on the upper lids droop and form folds.
Genetics often play a role, particularly in the development of eyebags in younger patients, but sun damage and smoking can all accelerate ageing around the eyes.
Surgery Time
1 – 2 hours
Anaesthetic
Local, sedation or general
Hospital Stay
Outpatient, day case or overnight stay
Time Off Work
1 week
Full Recovery
2 – 8 weeks
An upper blepharoplasty focuses on the area between the eyebrow and the eyelashes and a lower eyelid lift targets the area below the lower lid lashes and the cheek. These procedures can be performed individually or in combination and both involves removing or repositioning loose skin and excess fatty tissue.
If you have a pocket of fat below the lower eyelids, without sagging skin, the fat can be removed or repositioned through the inside of the lower eyelid, known as a transconjunctival incision.
The muscles are then tightened and the skin on both the upper and lower lid will look firmer, smoother and more youthful.
Mr Juling Ong will often combine a blepharoplasty with other procedures such as a facelift for optimal results. Non-surgical treatments such as Anti-Wrinkle Injections can be used to smooth away dynamic wrinkles around the eyes and on the brow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there anything I should do to prepare for my blepharoplasty procedure?
Mr Juling Ong will advise whether you need an eye test before surgery and he will ask questions about your eye health during your consultation.
Before surgery, Mr Ong will assess each patient based on their medical history and personal risk, and may advise them to stop taking particular medications. He will also recommend you stop smoking for at least a few weeks before surgery, as nicotine constricts the blood vessels and comprises your healing.
What are the possible risks of an eyelid lift?
Typically, an eyelid lift is a very safe and straightforward cosmetic surgery procedure, but there are always risks associated with a surgical operation. Infection, bruising and bleeding are potential complications. If you suffer from dry, irritated eyes, you may be advised not to proceed with surgery. Swelling and watery eyes are usually temporary complications.
Mr Juling Ong will discuss all possible risks as well as the benefits of eye surgery during your consultation.
Is an eyelid lift a painful procedure?
Generally, discomfort after a blepharoplasty procedure is minimal and can be easily managed with painkillers. The eyes may feel slightly gritty but can be managed using eye drops or ointments while you recover.
What is the downtime like after an eyelid lift?
A blepharoplasty is very visible surgery and there may be some bruising and swelling, so it depends on your personal preference. Most patients feel happy to return to work and normal activities after a week or two.
You may need ointment to relieve dryness which can affect your vision and you may have some light sensitivity. Mr Juling Ong will advise you what you should and shouldn’t do during the recovery process.
What scarring can I expect after a blepharoplasty?
A surgical incision will always leave a scar, but blepharoplasty scars are usually undetectable when fully healed as the skin is very thin. On the upper lid, Mr Juling Ong will position the incisions in the natural folds of the eyelids. On the lower lid, the scars are hidden just below the lashes and transconjunctival incisions are completely hidden behind the lid.
During your consultation, Mr Juling Ong will explain all potential risks and discuss your treatment options in full. Please call us on 020 7927 6528 or email us at info@julingong.com to arrange an appointment.
