Upper Eyelid Surgery (Upper Blepharoplasty)

Eyelid Surgery (Upper Blepharoplasty)

An Upper Eyelid Lift or Upper Blepharoplasty is a specialist eyelid surgery procedure that removes the folds of loose skin and bulges of protruding fat which sit over the upper eyelids, to produce a less-tired and more youthful appearance. As a result of the downward pull of gravity and loss of elasticity in the skin, the skin and muscles around the eye weaken and stretch resulting in an accumulation of loose skin and protrusion of fat resulting in “eye-bags” or a hooded appearance of the upper eyelid skin. This trait may run in families and may be accelerated by the effects of smoking, sun-exposure and weight-loss.

See an Upper Blepharoplasty procedure by Mr David Watt

What are my treatment options for Eyelid Surgery?

Upper Eyelid Lifts are done by means of an Upper Blepharoplasty.  An Upper Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure carried out, under local anaesthetic, by one of our Consultant Plastic Surgeons, in our Minor Operations Suite (MOPS).

An Upper Blepharoplasty is a skilled procedure and we would recommend that you choose a surgeon who has undergone a full training programme for cosmetic surgery. These surgeons will be on the Specialist Register of Plastic Surgery at the General Medical Council. Mr Watt, Mr Williams and Mr Mather are on the Specialist Register of Plastic Surgery and are full members of the British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (www.bapras.org.uk).

Upper Blepharoplasty Prices

Who carries out this procedure

What is the process for Upper Blepharoplasty?

The incision lines (and scars) run in the natural crease of the upper eyelid. These incisions are extended a little way into the crow’s feet or laughter lines at the corner of the eyes. Through this incision surplus fat is removed and excess skin and sagging muscle removed. Eyelid scars fade with time and are normally barely visible after some months.

There will be no improvement in folds of skin below the eye socket. If the folds of skin on the upper eyelid are due to drooping of the eyebrow, then a brow-lift, together with an upper blepharoplasty, may be recommended.

After surgery patients are able to go home the same day. Bruising lasts about one week and we would recommend a return to work after the bruising and swelling has subsided. The sutures are usually removed after 7 days and soon after you will be able to use make-up.

Before surgery you should avoid taking tablets containing aspirin and non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen and Diclofenac for at least two weeks before surgery as they increase the risk of bleeding.

All surgery, including cosmetic surgery, runs the risk of complications. For some types of eyelid surgery there is a tiny risk of blindness. These and all aspects of the surgery including cost will be discussed with you during your consultation.

The consultation

As upper eyelid surgery needs to be carefully discussed and planned, we do not offer an Online Consultation service for Blepharoplasty patients.

At your consultation, your Consultant Plastic Surgeon will examine your eyes to ensure that you are suitable for treatment, discuss the procedure and talk through your expectations after treatment.

Where does the procedure take place?

The procedure takes place in the Minor Operations Suite at either Skin Surgery Clinic, Harrogate or at Skin Surgery Clinic, Guiseley. Both are Care Quality Commission registered medical clinics.

After the procedure

Following your surgical procedure you will be provided with detailed aftercare information and you will be asked to attend a review appointment approximately 7 days later with your surgeon to assess the healing and to remove your sutures.

Do I need a referral from my GP to have Upper Eyelid Surgery?

No, a GP referral is not necessary. Many of our patients do come to us with a referral from their GP, but it is not a requirement. We are medically registered to be able to treat you if you self-refer to us.