Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery/eye bag removal)

Blepharoplasty is an operation performed to remove surplus skin, muscle and fat from either the upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both.  This cosmetic surgery procedure is often referred to as ‘eye bag removal’ or ‘eyelid surgery’.

Mr Chris Fenn, consultant plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon based in Leeds, West Yorkshire, regularly performs blepharoplasty on men and women either because they are unhappy with their facial appearance or because their vision is affected by their drooping eyelids.  

What is blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery/eye bag removal)?

The aim of a blepharoplasty operation is to remove excess skin and fat from the eyelids – whether it be from the upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both – to create a fresh, more youthful appearance.

What are the benefits of blepharoplasty surgery?

Gravity, the ageing process, lifestyle and even sun exposure – all take their toll on the skin, particularly the eyelids. 

As the skin loses elasticity and becomes thinner, ‘bags’ begin to form on the lower eyelids whilst the upper lids develop droopy ‘hoods’ which can, in some instances, affect a person’s vision.

Men and women who opt for eyelid surgery frequently say that they look tired all of the time and as a result, they look older than their age. This, in turn, has a negative impact on their self confidence.

The natural fresh- eyed look achieved through a blepharoplasty operation often helps to re-dress this and restore self-esteem.   

Am I suitable for a blepharoplasty?

If you have heavy drooping eyelids or noticeable pouches/bags under your eyes then you may be suitable for blepharoplasty surgery. 

Mr Chris Fenn would be able to confirm your suitability after you have had a consultation with him as well as a physical examination and a discussion about your medical history.

It is worth bearing mind that blepharoplasty is not an operation that can remove lower lid dark shadows or crow’s feet/wrinkles. There are other cosmetic treatments available that can help with these problems and Mr Fenn will discuss the options with you during your appointment.

Once you have all the information you need, including associated risks, Mr Fenn will encourage you to ask questions and take your time to think about the surgery before you decide to go ahead. 

What does blepharoplasty involve?

Eyelid surgery/eye bag removal is usually performed under general anaesthetic and takes 1-2 hours. Sometimes, it can be performed under a local anaesthetic – which means that you will be awake but won’t be able to feel anything as the eyelids and surrounding area will be numb.

You will either be discharged from the hospital at the end of the day or following an overnight stay.

 

   
Before operation  Upper and lower eyelid fat pad  Design of skin excision

 

 

   
 Scar positions  After operation
 
 

Upper blepharoplasty 

To remove the excess folds of skin that create the droopy ‘hoods’ on the upper eyelids, incisions are made along the natural creases in the lid and just beyond - into the corner of the eye. Loose, surplus skin along with muscle and fat are removed and the remaining skin is repositioned and glued/stitched into place, leaving a very fine scar.  

Lower blepharoplasty

To remove the excess fat stored below the surface of the skin on the lower lids (the ‘eye bags’), incisions are made just underneath the lower eyelashes. The fatty bulk is either removed entirely or redistributed to smooth out the tired groove below the lower eyelid. Any loose skin is also removed and the remaining skin is stitched back into position. 

Again because the cuts are made along the natural lines/creases of the eye, the remaining scar is mostly hidden.

Upper and lower blepharoplasty

Eye bag removal and upper eyelid surgery is regularly performed at the same time.

How long does it take to recover?

 

The area around your eyes will feel bruised and swollen for 1 week after surgery. Painkilling medication will help you to manage any pain and discomfort.

Your eyes may feel a little tight or dry and itchy to begin with but this should pass after a week or so. This can also be eased by using the prescribed eye drops and eye ointment.

Whilst you will be encouraged to stay mobile, you will need to avoid contact sports for around 2 weeks after surgery. You will also need to take 1-2 weeks off work, depending on the nature of your job.

You will be asked to return to the hospital for a series of follow-ups with both the cosmetic surgery nursing team and Mr Fenn to ensure that your eyelids are healing as they should.

How much does a blepharoplasty cost?

 

If you would like to know the price for eye bag removal/eyelid surgery, contact Mr Chris Fenn’s secretary, Claire Bartle-Coates on 0113 218 5971, email Claire.bartle-coates@spirehealthcare.com or complete an on-line enquiry form.

How do I find out more about blepharoplasty surgery?

To find out more about eye bag removal/eyelid surgery or to book a consultation with Mr Chris Fenn, call his secretary Claire Bartle-Coates on 0113 218 5971, email Claire.bartle-coates@spirehealthcare.com or complete an on-line enquiry form.