Eyelid Aesthetics (Blepharoplasty)

 

Blepharoplasty is the surgical correction of the upper and/or lower eyelids for aesthetic or functional purposes. Sagging, puffiness, hollowness, and wrinkles caused by factors such as aging, gravity, genetic predisposition, or sun damage are eliminated, aiming for a younger, more dynamic, and refreshed appearance.

Who Is It Suitable For?

• Excess skin on the upper eyelids that restricts the field of vision
• Puffiness and fat prolapse in the lower lids
• A tired, sunken look
• Wrinkles around the eyes

Blepharoplasty can be considered for adult individuals with these complaints. Of course, the decision becomes clear after a detailed examination.

Types of Blepharoplasty

Upper Eyelid Aesthetic Surgery

• Excess skin and/or muscle tissue: Sagging of the eyelid, sometimes restricting the field of vision.
• Age-related puffiness: Creates swelling and a heavy appearance on the eyelids.

Lower Eyelid Aesthetic Surgery

• Lower puffiness: Under-eye bags, usually age-related or genetic.
• Under-eye hollowing: Depressions around the eye due to reduction or displacement of fat.
• Under-eye dark circles (periorbital pigmentation): Can be combined with chemical peeling, laser, or other supportive treatments.

Combined Blepharoplasty
Intervening in both upper and lower lids together, aiming to achieve a balanced, refreshed, and youthful eye area.

Blepharoplasty Process with Op. Dr. Diclehan

• Patient expectations are listened to; motivation and goals are clarified.
• Examination: Amount of lid tissue, muscle balance, tear ducts, and overall facial symmetry are evaluated.
• Documentation with photographs and explanation of the planned procedure to the patient.

Preoperative Preparation and Planning

• Blood-thinning medications should be discontinued (aspirin, NSAIDs, etc.).
• Smoking should be stopped before surgery, as it slows healing.
• The surgical setting (inpatient surgery or outpatient conditions) is clarified with the patient.

Surgical Process

• Usually performed under local anesthesia; sometimes mild sedation may be applied.
• Upper eyelid surgery: An incision is made in the eyelid crease. Excess skin, muscle tissue, and if present, fat tissue are removed; closed with sutures.
• Lower eyelid surgery: Through an incision beneath the lash line, bags and fat tissue are adjusted; sometimes via a transconjunctival (scarless) approach fat redistribution can be done.

Recovery Process

• First 1–2 days: Bruising, swelling, and mild pain may occur around the eyes. Cold compresses, painkillers, and adherence to doctor’s instructions are very important.
• Stitches are removed within 1 week; bruising and swelling reduce significantly.
• Natural results become visible within 2–4 weeks.
• Surgical results settle completely within 3–6 months.

Risks and Complications of Blepharoplasty

• Temporary swelling and bruising
• Postoperative numbness or hypersensitivity
• Temporary dry eyes, burning, stinging
• Excessive bleeding, infection
• Asymmetrical tissue removal
• Lower lid retraction (ectropion)
• Permanent dry eye or vision problems (extremely rare)

Most of these risks can be minimized with correct preoperative evaluation and surgical precision.

Who Is Not Suitable for Blepharoplasty?

• Patients with insufficient tear production or severe dry eye
• Patients with serious systemic health issues (uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, etc.)
• Eye infections or inflammatory conditions around the eyelids
• Individuals with unrealistic psychological expectations

Alternative Treatments

• Botulinum toxin applications
• Fillers, laser rejuvenation methods
• Microneedling, chemical peeling

These options can be used instead of surgery or in combination with surgery.

Pre- and Post-Blepharoplasty Considerations

Before

• Strict adherence to doctor’s instructions (discontinuation of medications, quitting smoking) is essential.
• Alcohol, excessive caffeine, and salt intake should be reduced 1–2 days before surgery.
• Potential microbial carriers such as eye makeup or contact lenses should be avoided.

After

• Cold compress in the first 48 hours
• Sleeping with head elevated reduces swelling
• Smoking and alcohol should be avoided
• Use of sunglasses and sunscreen
• Avoid rubbing eyes and harsh movements
• Regular doctor check-ups are necessary

Blepharoplasty Costs and Insurance

Blepharoplasty is considered an aesthetic intervention; therefore, it is usually not covered by SGK (Turkish Social Security) or private insurance.
Costs vary depending on the hospital, the surgeon’s experience, the type of procedure, and whether it is performed under local or general anesthesia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

“Is the scar noticeable to others?”
Generally, in upper lid blepharoplasty, the incision is hidden within the eyelid crease, making the scar almost invisible. In the lower lid, it heals as a fine line.

“When can I return to work or social life?”

• Light office work: within 5–7 days
• Public professions such as film or TV: recommended after 2–3 weeks
• This depends on the patient’s daily activity level, bruising, and swelling.

“At what age is it appropriate?”
If there is genetically early wrinkling or sagging, it can be considered even in the 30s. Many patients apply between the ages of 40–60 due to aging signs.

“Can it be repeated?”
Yes, although over time new sagging or changes in fat tissue may occur, it can usually be repeated after 8–10 years. In secondary surgeries, scar placement is evaluated according to the existing tissue condition.

Op. Dr. Diclehan evaluates blepharoplasty both from a scientific basis and with an aesthetic perspective. The primary goal of surgery is to preserve healthy eyelid function while achieving a youthful, dynamic, natural, and socially harmonious eye area.

Blepharoplasty is a serious surgical procedure, and its success is possible through correct patient selection, the surgeon’s experience, thorough preparation, and meticulous postoperative follow-up. If you are aiming for a “rested look” or a “rejuvenation of facial expression,” a one-on-one consultation with Op. Dr. Diclehan will guide you through this process in the healthiest way possible.