Is Blepharoplasty Right for Me? Common Patient FAQs

As we grow older, it’s natural for changes to appear around the eyes. This skin is incredibly delicate and is often the first place to show signs of ageing. However, under-eye bags, drooping eyelids, or puffiness can make you feel at odds with how you truly feel on the inside, more tired or older than you really are.

If you’ve found yourself feeling self-conscious with these changes, you’re not alone. At Sapphire Eye Care, we understand that how you feel doesn’t always match what you see in the mirror, and that this can greatly impact one’s self-esteem and confidence.

One long-term solution that can rejuvenate your eyes and restore a brighter, more youthful look is a blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery. Before deciding whether you want this type of surgery, it’s important for you to conduct thorough research and speak with an expert medical professional.

In this article, we’ll guide you through what the procedure involves, whether it might be right for you, and what to expect during your recovery. We’ll also share the importance of choosing a surgeon with the right training and experience.

With Sapphire Eye Care, you’re in safe hands. Our expert oculoplastic surgeons are here to take care of you and guide you throughout the entire process, from your initial consultation to your recovery and aftercare.

 

What is Blepharoplasty?

A blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the upper or lower eyelids. The procedure removes excess skin or fat to restore a more youthful, rested look and is typically performed under either local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic. While it’s often done for cosmetic reasons, in some cases, it’s also a medical necessity, especially when the excess skin or fat starts to interfere with your vision.

There are two main types of blepharoplasty surgery, including the following:

• Upper blepharoplasty: Gently lifts drooping eyelids. This can help reduce a tired appearance and may even improve vision.
• Lower blepharoplasty: Targets bags under the eyes, puffiness, and sagging skin. The result is a smoother, more refreshed appearance.

With a blepharoplasty, the goal isn’t to make you look like someone else, but to help you look more like yourself again.

 

Is Blepharoplasty Surgery Right for Me?

Blepharoplasty surgery addresses concerns that affect your confidence, comfort and, in some cases, your vision. You might be a good candidate for a blepharoplasty if:

• You have drooping or loose skin on your upper eyelids that is starting to affect your appearance or vision.
• You’re struggling with puffiness or under-eye bags that aren’t responding to skincare or non-surgical treatments.
• You are generally in good health and don’t smoke.
• You have no serious eye conditions.
• You hold realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve.

During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your facial anatomy, skin quality and medical history to determine if blepharoplasty surgery is right for you.

 

Choosing the Right Surgeon: Why Oculoplastic Expertise Matters

Choosing the right surgeon is one of the most important steps when you’re considering eyelid surgery.

While many general plastic surgeons do perform cosmetic surgery on upper or lower eyelids, blepharoplasty is a highly specialised area of the face that requires precision, expertise and a deep understanding of both anatomy and function.

 

What is an Oculoplastic Surgeon?

In the UK, all functional eyelid surgery is typically carried out by oculoplastic surgeons within NHS hospitals, including procedures for drooping lids that impair vision, eyelid malpositions, or tumours.

These specialists begin their careers as ophthalmologists (eye surgeons), gaining years of experience in microsurgical techniques and delicate eye anatomy before undertaking additional fellowship training exclusively in oculoplastic surgery.

 

Why Specialised Training Matters for You

This unique background means that:

• They have a deep understanding of the complex interactions between eyelid function and eye health.
• They are trained to manage both the aesthetic and medical aspects of your eyelid concerns.
• They operate under magnification, using meticulous techniques designed for the delicate and sensitive tissues around the eye.

It’s natural to have questions about your recovery. Most people experience some temporary swelling and bruising in the first 1-2 weeks after the blepharoplasty surgery. This usually improves significantly after about 10 days, with many patients feeling comfortable enough to return to work or social activities within this time. To reduce swelling and any post-operative bruising, we recommend our patients apply an ice pack or cold compresses for 20 minutes, either in the theatre or as soon as you get to the recovery room.

Final results will take a little longer to become visible, usually after 4-6 weeks. Of course, everyone heals differently, and your surgeon will give you personalised guidance on what to expect and how best to support your recovery.

How long do the results last?

Results from upper eyelid surgery often last for 5-10 years, while lower eyelid results can be even longer-lasting. Although the ageing process still continues, the improvements will still be noticeable during this time.

Does blepharoplasty leave scars?

During a blepharoplasty, incisions are carefully made within the natural folds and creases of the eyelids or inside the lower eyelid, meaning that there will be minimal and discreet scarring. With proper aftercare, most of these scars will fade significantly over time.

Is there an ideal age for surgery?

There isn’t an ideal or set age for this type of surgery. People in their 30s through to their 80s may consider blepharoplasty, depending on their anatomy and any personal concerns. What matters most is whether the procedure is appropriate for your individual needs. With a consultation, we can determine whether this procedure will be the right path for you.