Eyelid Surgery: Assessment, Risks and Recovery

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) removes or repositions selected skin and fat from the upper or lower eyelids. It may be cosmetic or, in selected upper-eyelid cases, address tissue affecting vision. It cannot treat every cause of tired-looking eyes or visual symptoms.

Assessment and options

The surgeon should assess eyelid position and support, eye surface, vision history, skin and fat distribution, facial anatomy, medicines, previous treatment, health and expectations. Non-surgical care or treatment of another eye condition may be more appropriate.

Risks

Risks include bleeding, infection, dry or irritated eyes, asymmetry, scars, altered sensation, eyelid retraction or turning, difficulty closing the eye, double vision, dissatisfaction and revision. Rare bleeding behind the eye can threaten sight.

Recovery and urgent symptoms

Swelling, bruising and appearance change over time; recovery is individual. Seek emergency care for sudden vision loss, severe pain, a rapidly expanding bruise or bulging of the eye.

Read the NHS eyelid surgery guide, then review Revitalize’s eyelid surgery information, named doctors and assessment route.