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Cosmetic Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions About Eyelid Surgery

What is Eyelid Surgery?

At the Minor Surgery Clinic, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is a highly effective procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper and/or lower eyelids. It rejuvenates the eye area, reduces under-eye bags, and can even improve vision when sagging upper lids obstruct your sight. Performed as a day-case procedure under local or general anaesthetic, blepharoplasty is ideal for patients over 18 in good health who want natural-looking, long-lasting results. A personalised consultation ensures a safe plan tailored to your eyelid structure and aesthetic goals.

Everything You Need to Know About Upper Eyelid Surgery

If you’re noticing drooping eyelids or feel like your upper vision is being blocked, upper eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, may be an effective solution. This procedure not only improves your appearance but can also restore your peripheral vision, helping you see more clearly and feel more alert.

Below, we answer the most common questions about upper eyelid surgery to help you understand the procedure, what to expect, and whether it might be right for you.

Why Droopy Eyelids Happen

Droopy eyelids often appear as a natural part of aging. Over time, the skin around the eyelids stretches, and the muscles that lift the eyelid weaken, leading to a sagging or hooded appearance.

In some cases, drooping can result from medical conditions or injury, including diabetes, Horner syndrome, Myasthenia gravis, stroke, or eyelid tumours and swelling. Drooping may affect one or both eyes, and the severity can vary between individuals.

Recognising the Signs of Droopy Eyelids

The most common symptom is a reduction in your field of vision, particularly at the upper and outer edges, which can make everyday activities like driving, reading, or watching TV more difficult.

Other signs may include:

  • Dry or watery eyes
  • A tired or sagging appearance noticed by others
  • Frequently bumping into objects due to limited peripheral vision

An optometrist or ophthalmologist can test your visual field to determine whether droopy eyelids are affecting your eyesight.

Droopy Eyelids in Children

Some children are born with congenital ptosis, a condition that causes the eyelids to droop. Kids may compensate by lifting their eyebrows or tilting their heads to see clearly.

If the drooping partially or completely blocks vision, it can lead to permanent vision problems. Pediatric eyelid surgery is usually performed during the preschool years under the care of a specialist ophthalmologist.

How Eyelid Surgery Works

Blepharoplasty is the surgical procedure used to correct droopy eyelids. It can be performed by a plastic surgeon, ophthalmologist, or reconstructive surgeon.

During the procedure:

  • An incision is made in the natural crease of the eyelid
  • Excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat are removed or repositioned
  • The incision is carefully hidden within the eyelid fold

This is typically a day-case procedure, allowing you to recover comfortably at home. Blepharoplasty can improve your vision while giving your eyes a younger, refreshed appearance.

Understanding the Risks

As with any surgery, blepharoplasty carries potential risks, which should be discussed with your surgeon before proceeding. These can include:

  • Infection or bleeding
  • Dry or irritated eyes
  • Difficulty closing the eyes or other eyelid issues
  • Noticeable scarring
  • Injury to eye muscles
  • Skin discoloration
  • Need for revision surgery
  • Temporary blurred vision or, rarely, vision loss
  • General surgical risks, such as reaction to anaesthesia or blood clots

A thorough consultation allows your surgeon to assess your individual risk and explain how to minimise complications.

What to Expect During Recovery

After surgery, you may notice:

  • Blurred vision from lubricating ointment
  • Swelling and bruising, typically fading in 10–14 days
  • Light sensitivity, mild discomfort, or double vision

Scars may take several months to fade, and it’s important to protect your eyelids from direct sunlight. Most patients are satisfied with the results, enjoying improved vision and a refreshed, alert appearance that can last a lifetime.

Insurance and Coverage

Whether eyelid surgery is covered by insurance depends on the reason for treatment. Surgery performed to improve vision or correct a medical issue may be eligible for coverage, while purely cosmetic procedures are usually not.

It’s best to speak with your primary care provider or ophthalmologist to clarify your options.

Is Upper Eyelid Surgery Right for You?

Upper eyelid surgery is a safe and effective way to restore vision and refresh the eyes for both men and women. If sagging eyelids, under-eye bags, or a limited visual field are affecting your daily life, a consultation with a qualified surgeon can determine whether blepharoplasty is the right solution.

At Minor Surgery Clinic, our experienced team provides personalised care, clear guidance, and a one-stop surgical process to ensure safe, natural-looking results.