Droopy upper lids and eye bags can make you look older and tired even when you are not.
Blepharoplasty is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure, undertaken by both men and women. It involves surgery on either the upper or lower eyelids. In the case of the upper eyelids, this is usually to lift drooping lids or remove wrinkles. In the lower lids, it is usually done to reduce the puffiness or ‘eye bags’ that are commonly seen under the eyes.
Now available at our London Clinic in Harley Street.
Your Questions Answered
- Who is it most suitable for?
- How does the treatment work?
- How long does the treatment take?
- Does the treatment hurt?
- Is it safe?
- Is there any downtime?
- How much does it cost?
- Who performs the treatment?
- What happens next?
Who is it most suitable for?
Most people benefit from eyelid surgery from middle to late thirties and beyond. However if droopy, baggy eyelids run in your family, you may decide to have eyelid surgery at a younger age.
How does the treatment work?
At The Private Clinic the treatment is performed under local anaesthetic which means less recovery time and minimal downtime.
For the upper eyelids the incision is made in the natural crease line that occurs one centimetre above the eyelashes. Working through these incisions, the surgeon separates the skin from underlying fatty tissue and muscle, removes excess fat, and often trims sagging skin and muscle. The incisions are then closed with very fine sutures.
For the lower eyelids the incision starts underneath the eyelashes and extends out outwards into the crow’s feet area. The skin is then lifted and any fat that is causing any bulges and if necessary the muscle is tightened. The excess skin and fat is trimmed. The incisions will then be closed with fine sutures
How long does the treatment take?
The blepharoplasty procedure will usually takes between one and half hour to two hours, depending on the extent of the surgery required.
Does the treatment hurt?
At The Private Clinic the procedure is performed under local anaesthesia which is used to numb the area around the eyes. You’ll be awake during the surgery, but insensitive to pain. However you may feel some tugging or occasional discomfort.
Is it safe?
All surgery carries some uncertainty and risks but eyelid surgery complications are infrequent and usually minor. You can reduce your risks by closely following your surgeon’s instructions both before and after surgery.
The minor complications that occasionally follow blepharoplasty include soreness, swelling and bruising around the eyes that can last up to a month; double or blurred vision for a few days; a slight asymmetry in healing or scarring; sensitivity to light; sticky, dry and itchy eyes usually clear after a week; watery eyes can last for a few weeks.
More severe complications are extremely rare but will be discussed in depth during your consultation with the surgeon. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have, especially those regarding your expectations and concerns about the results.
Is there any downtime?
After blepharoplasty surgery, you might need to lubricate your eyes with ointment. Some bruising and swelling occurs during the first and second weeks, however the majority of the swelling usually subsides after the first ten days. Your eyelids may feel dry at first, but eye drops can help with this. Any sutures are usually removed after five days. You should be able to read or watch television after two or three days.
You will not be able to wear contact lenses for approximately one week.
Most people go out in public (and back to work) in a week to ten days. It’s especially important to avoid strenuous activities for several weeks.
How much does it cost?
Prices start at £2900 but vary depending on the extent of surgery and whether you will need to do all four eyelids or just the upper or lower ones. During the consultation you will be discussing what procedure is the most appropriate and the costs involved.
Who performs the treatment?
Our treatments are carried out by surgeons who have extensive experience in this field.
What happens next?
We offer free, no obligation consultations in our London clinic in Harley Street. This is an opportunity for us to learn more about what you want to achieve and for you to ask any questions you may have. As well as talking you through your treatment options, our friendly staff will give you more information on the treatment process and what you can expect as a patient of The Private Clinic. If you are suitable for treatment we will book a second consultation with the surgeon who will be performing the treatment.
You can book your consultation online or call 0800 599 9911
