Blepharoplasty

About the service

We offer blepharoplasty at the Western Eye Hospital in London. Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure to improve the appearance and function of the eyelids.

This page gives an overview of blepharoplasty and what you can expect from the procedure.

What is blepharoplasty and how does it work?

Blepharoplasty can help address issues such as drooping eyelids, hooded eyes or under-eye puffiness. This surgery can be used to remove excess skin, fat or muscle which may:

• impair vision (functional blepharoplasty)
• create a tired or aged appearance (cosmetic blepharoplasty)

You can choose to have blepharoplasty on your upper or lower eyelids – or both. The forms of blepharoplasty vary, and each has its own benefits:

• Upper blepharoplasty focuses on removing excess skin above the eyes, which can improve vision if your eyelids obstruct your sight. It can also help to create a more youthful appearance.
• Lower blepharoplasty targets dark circles and "bags" under the eyes, reducing puffiness.

What can I expect from blepharoplasty?

Whether you choose to have an upper blepharoplasty, lower eyelid blepharoplasty, or both, the results will be long-lasting.

You can expect the following steps when having blepharoplasty with us at the Western Eye Hospital, London:

Consultation: You will meet with one of our skilled surgeons who will assess your needs and goals. This is also your opportunity to ask about the surgeon's experience with eyelid surgeries. Our consultants will always take the time to answer your questions and make you feel comfortable with the treatment you decide.

Procedure: The surgery is performed under anaesthesia, so you will feel no pain and be carefully monitored during the procedure. For each type of blepharoplasty, the process typically involves:

• Upper blepharoplasty: The surgeon makes a small cut along the natural crease of your eyelid. Next, they carefully remove excess skin, fat or muscle before closing the incision. The scar is typically hidden in the natural fold of your eyelid.

• Lower blepharoplasty: The surgeon makes a small cut just below your lower eyelashes or inside your lower eyelid. They then reposition or remove any fat and sometimes a small amount of skin. The surgeon may also work to support the muscles and tendons around your eyelid before closing the incision.

Aftercare and results: After the procedure, our healthcare staff will monitor you while you recover from the anaesthesia. You will likely have some swelling or bruising, but this usually fades quickly. The surgeon will give you detailed aftercare instructions for a smooth recovery.

The procedure can take up to two hours, but you can usually go home on the same day. Most people can return to their regular activities within a week.

Why choose us for blepharoplasty?

If you are considering blepharoplasty, we offer expert care in high-tech facilities at the Western Eye Hospital.

Our skilled oculoplastic surgeons use techniques to ensure minimal scarring and will help you make the right choice to find the best approach for your needs and goals.

Find out more about blepharoplasty

If you are considering blepharoplasty, our expert team can guide you through the process and make sure you feel confident about your decision.

If you have any questions about blepharoplasty or would like to schedule a consultation to find out more, please contact us:

• Call: +44 (0) 20 3311 7700
• Email: imperial.private.healthcare@nhs.net