Cosmetic eyelid surgery – called Blepharoplasty – is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the upper eyelids or lower eyelids – or both – and give a rejuvenated appearance to the surrounding area of the eyes, helping the patient to look more rested and alert.
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Why you might need eyelid surgery
For the majority of people, one of the first signs of ageing is a change in the skin around the eyes. Many patients opt for this surgery because they are unhappy with the appearance around their eyes, caused by droopy eyes or bags.
This happens because the skin loses its elasticity and our muscles slacken with age. For the eyelids this results in an accumulation of loose skin, which collects as folds in the upper lids and forms deepening creases in the lower lids. At the same time there is slackening of the muscle beneath the skin allowing the fat – which cushions the eyes in their sockets – to protrude forward to give the appearance of bagginess.
In some families there is an inherited tendency for bags to develop during early adulthood before any skin changes. When this is the case, surgery may be recommended during the patient’s 20s.
Assessment for this surgery
Like any cosmetic surgery, going ahead with eyelid rejuvenation surgery is a big decision so it’s important as a patient that you understand exactly what can – and can’t – be achieved during your procedure.
Mr Sherif Wilson FRCS (Plast) will meet with personally in a private consultation to assess your specific case and answer any questions you may have. Following an assessment, he will then make recommendations for your surgery and talk you through the procedure itself.
Mr Wilson will also make you aware of the risks with the surgery. Whilst complications are rare, they can include:
- Bleeding under your skin (haematoma) which may result in another operation to stop the bleeding and drain the area
- Swelling that pulls the lower lid away from your eyes – this usually settles on its own after few days
- Tightness of the eyelids that means it is more difficult for you to close your eyes, which usually improves after time
- Bleeding behind the eye which can press on the optic nerve and cause partial or complete blindness – although this is very rare, don’t ignore any severe pain you have as it can be a sign of bleeding behind the eye
- Uneven appearance – your eyes may not look identical
- Excess watery or dry eyes, which usually improves after time.
What does this procedure involve?
There are two types of eyelid surgery:
- Upper Blepharoplasty
- Lower Blepharoplasty
Both upper and lower eyelid surgery can be carried out under local anaesthetic or under general anaesthetic. In a typical procedure incisions are made following the natural lines of your eyelids; in the creases of upper lids and just below the lashes in the lower lids. These incisions are extended a little way into the crow’s feet or laughter lines at the corner of the eyes. Through this incision surplus fat is removed and excess sagging skin is removed.
Before and after gallery
Mr Wilson is able to go through before and after photos of this procedure with you during your consultation if required.
Going home after surgery
It’s common for this surgery to be performed as a day case, meaning you will be able to return home the same day as the operation. However, some patients may need to stay in hospital overnight.
When returning home, you won’t be able to drive initially so will need to arrange transport when leaving the hospital. It is recommended to take some time off from work to allow for the best possible recovery. Most patients return to work after a week to ten days.
You will need to take it easy at home initially, and will likely find that your eyes appear watery for the first couple of weeks. Your eyes may also feel sticky and itchy, but this should subside after a week to ten days.
You will have bruising around your eyes and some swelling. This will disappear after around three weeks, when you will be able to see the full impact of the surgery.
How much does this surgery cost?
Depending on the type of procedure you require, the cost of surgery can vary.
These are guide prices and are subject to change following an initial consultation with Mr Wilson, where a bespoke quote will be provided, specific to each patient.
The prices include one Covid swab at the hospital of your procedure. This Covid swab will need to be performed 72 hours prior to your admission and the hospital will book this with you directly upon receipt of your surgery booking. You will be required to completely self-isolate between the time of the Covid swab to the time of your admission to the hospital.
At Nuffield Bristol Hospital
From £3,190
At BMI Bath Clinic
From £3,110
At Winfield Hospital (Gloucester)
From £3,430
At St Josephs Newport
From £2,810
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