What Is Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery, medically known as blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic and sometimes functional procedure designed to improve the appearance of the upper and lower eyelids. As we age, the skin around the eyes becomes thinner, loses elasticity, and starts to droop. This natural process, combined with gravity and lifestyle factors such as sun exposure, smoking, or stress, can lead to sagging eyelids, puffiness, or prominent under-eye bags. In more advanced cases, excess upper eyelid skin may even hang over the lashes, obstructing the field of vision.
During blepharoplasty, the surgeon carefully removes or repositions excess skin, muscle, and fat to achieve a smoother, firmer, and more defined eye contour. The goal is to restore a youthful and refreshed appearance while maintaining a natural look that harmonizes with the rest of the face. For upper eyelid surgery, incisions are typically made within the natural creases of the eyelid, leaving nearly invisible scars once healed. For lower eyelid surgery, the incision can be made just below the lash line or inside the eyelid (transconjunctival approach), depending on the patient’s needs and anatomy.
The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity and patient preference. Most surgeries take between one and two hours, and patients can return home the same day. Swelling and bruising are common in the first few days, but they gradually subside within one to two weeks. Following post-operative instructions—such as applying cold compresses, keeping the head elevated, and avoiding strenuous activities—helps speed up recovery and minimize discomfort.
Eyelid surgery provides long-lasting results. The rejuvenated eye area often makes the entire face look more awake, vibrant, and youthful. Many patients report increased confidence, improved self-esteem, and even enhanced vision when drooping skin is lifted from the upper eyelids. While blepharoplasty cannot stop the aging process, it effectively resets the appearance of the eyes, and results can last for many years with proper skincare and a healthy lifestyle.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?
Good candidates for eyelid surgery are generally men and women who experience sagging eyelids, puffiness, or under-eye bags that affect either their appearance or vision. Ideal patients are in overall good health and do not have conditions that could interfere with healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes or severe eye disorders. While the procedure is often performed on individuals over forty, younger people may also benefit if drooping eyelids or puffy under-eye areas are hereditary. A suitable candidate is someone who has realistic expectations, understands that the surgery enhances appearance rather than completely changing it, and is prepared to follow the necessary recovery guidelines.
Upper vs. Lower Eyelid Surgery: What’s the Difference?
Upper eyelid surgery focuses on correcting sagging skin and folds that develop above the eyes. Excess skin in this area can make the eyes look smaller, heavier, and in some cases obstruct the upper field of vision. By removing the extra tissue and tightening the remaining skin, upper eyelid surgery creates a more open and youthful eye contour.
Lower eyelid surgery, on the other hand, addresses puffiness, under-eye bags, and loose skin beneath the eyes. Fat deposits and lax skin in this region can create shadows that make a person appear constantly tired. Lower blepharoplasty smooths the under-eye area, reduces puffiness, and softens fine wrinkles, resulting in a fresher and more rested appearance. Some patients may benefit from having both upper and lower eyelid surgery performed together for a balanced rejuvenation of the entire eye area.
How Eyelid Surgery Is Performed
Eyelid surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or, in some cases, general anesthesia. The technique depends on whether the upper, lower, or both eyelids are being treated. For the upper eyelids, an incision is typically made along the natural crease, allowing removal of excess skin and repositioning or removal of fat. This placement hides the scar within the fold, making it barely visible once healed.
For the lower eyelids, the incision may be placed just beneath the lash line or inside the eyelid itself. Through these incisions, the surgeon can remove or reposition fat deposits and tighten loose skin. The procedure generally lasts one to three hours, depending on the complexity and whether both eyelids are involved. After surgery, patients can expect some swelling and bruising, but these effects usually diminish within a few weeks. The final results reveal smoother, more youthful eyelids and a refreshed overall facial expression.
What to Expect Before and After Eyelid Surgery
Before eyelid surgery, a thorough consultation and medical evaluation are usually performed to assess the condition of the eyelids, skin quality, and overall health. Patients are advised to stop smoking, avoid blood-thinning medications, and prepare for a short recovery period at home. Pre-operative photographs may be taken to help plan the procedure and evaluate results afterward.
After surgery, the immediate changes include swelling, bruising, and a feeling of tightness around the eyes. Cold compresses are often recommended to minimize swelling, and the head is usually kept elevated while resting. Stitches, if placed, are removed within the first week, and most of the visible bruising fades over the following two weeks. The eyes gradually appear more refreshed, alert, and youthful as healing continues, with final results becoming clear after several months.
Recovery Process After Blepharoplasty
The recovery process after eyelid surgery is relatively quick compared to many other cosmetic procedures. Most patients return to their normal routines within one to two weeks, depending on whether the upper, lower, or both eyelids were treated. During the first few days, rest is essential, and reading or screen use may be limited to avoid eye strain. Swelling and bruising are at their peak during this period but improve steadily.
By the end of the second week, many patients feel comfortable returning to work or social activities, although minor residual swelling may still be present. Light exercise is generally resumed after two to three weeks, while strenuous activities are postponed for at least a month. As the tissues heal, scars gradually fade, blending naturally into the eyelid creases or lash lines.
Risks and Side Effects of Eyelid Surgery
Although eyelid surgery is considered safe, it is still a surgical procedure and carries potential risks. The most common side effects include temporary swelling, bruising, dry eyes, and mild discomfort. These symptoms usually resolve as the healing process progresses. Less common but possible risks include infection, bleeding, changes in eyelid position, or temporary difficulty closing the eyes completely.
In very rare cases, more serious complications affecting vision may occur, which is why careful evaluation and precise surgical technique are important. Following post-operative instructions and attending follow-up visits significantly reduces the likelihood of complications. For most patients, the benefits of eyelid surgery far outweigh the risks, and long-term satisfaction rates are very high.
How to Maintain Long-Term Results After Eyelid Surgery
The results of blepharoplasty can last for many years, but the aging process continues naturally. To prolong the benefits of the surgery, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important. Protecting the skin from sun exposure, staying hydrated, and using proper skincare products help preserve eyelid firmness. Avoiding smoking and maintaining a balanced diet also contribute to healthier skin and longer-lasting results.
While eyelid surgery removes excess skin and fat, it cannot stop future changes caused by gravity and aging. However, patients who care for their skin and overall health often enjoy youthful-looking eyes for a decade or more. If needed, non-surgical treatments such as laser resurfacing or injectables can complement the results over time, keeping the eyes looking fresh and vibrant.
Eyelid Surgery Prices 2025
Eyelid surgery prices in Turkey in 2025 range between 1,500 and 3,500 euros depending on the technique and eyelid area. The cost differs for upper, lower, or combined blepharoplasty procedures. Surgeon experience, hospital standards, and anesthesia type also affect the total price. Most clinics offer all-inclusive packages covering consultation, surgery, and post-operative care. Turkey is well known for achieving natural and youthful results at affordable costs. For an accurate 2025 quote, a detailed evaluation is recommended before scheduling eyelid surgery.
Is eyelid surgery painful?
Eyelid surgery is not considered a painful procedure, as it is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. Patients may feel some tightness, mild discomfort, or soreness during the first days of recovery, but this is usually controlled easily with prescribed pain relief. Most describe the experience as uncomfortable rather than painful, and the healing process becomes more comfortable each day.
How long does bruising and swelling last?
Bruising and swelling are most noticeable during the first week after surgery. They gradually improve over the following days and are often minimal by the end of the second week. Cold compresses and keeping the head elevated during rest can help reduce these symptoms more quickly. By three to four weeks, most of the visible signs of surgery fade, leaving only subtle changes as the tissues continue to heal.
Will eyelid surgery affect my vision?
In some cases, patients notice temporary blurred vision, sensitivity to light, or watery eyes during the first days after surgery. These symptoms are usually caused by swelling and minor dryness and resolve naturally as the healing process continues. Permanent changes to vision are extremely rare. In fact, when excess skin has been obstructing the upper field of vision, eyelid surgery may actually improve sight by removing the overhanging folds.
Are the results of blepharoplasty permanent?
The results of eyelid surgery are long-lasting but not completely permanent, as the aging process continues. Most patients enjoy youthful and refreshed eyelids for ten to fifteen years before natural changes in the skin and muscles gradually appear again. The improvements made during surgery remain, but lifestyle factors such as sun exposure, smoking, and general skin care can influence how long the results last.
Do eyelid surgery scars go away?
Scars from eyelid surgery are usually very discreet because incisions are placed within natural creases of the eyelid or just below the lash line. In cases where incisions are made inside the eyelid, scars are not visible at all. Over time, any external scars fade significantly and blend with the surrounding skin. With proper care, they become barely noticeable, often invisible to others.
