The purpose of Eyelid Surgery (blepharoplasty) is to reduce droopy or hooded eyelids and eliminate bags under the eyes.

What does the procedure involve?

Blepharoplasty is normally carried out under general anaesthetic but can also be carried out using local or \"twilight\" anaesthesia. With lower lid surgery an incision is made under the lower lashes or on the inside of the eyelid. The skin is then freed from the underlying tissue and excess skin and fat is removed. The incision is then closed. With upper eyelid surgery an incision is made along the eyelid crease and unwanted skin, fat and muscle is removed before the incision is closed. The scar is hidden inside the natural fold of the upper eyelid.

What are the benefits and what are the risks?

Benefits

People who have had eyelid surgery generally look younger and less tired as bags and droopy skin is removed.

Risks

After surgery you may experience blurred vision, though this should be temporary. As with all surgery infection may occur but this may be reduced by not touching the area around the eye and avoiding the use of mobile phones which can spread infection. Scarring may occur where the incisions have been made and in some cases eyes may look asymmetrical. In very rare cases bleeding may occur behind the eye which can lead to blindness.

Is it the right procedure for me?

Often droopy eyelids or puffy baggy lower eyelids are hereditary and surgery can help to rectify these. Many people also choose to have eyelid surgery as they become older and the skin stretches and thins, due to a loss of elasticity, giving the appearance of bags under the eyes. Eyelid surgery will do very little for wrinkles or crows feet and these are best treated with alternative procedures such as Botox, peels and laser treatments.

If you suffer from glaucoma or dry eyes, whereby you don't produce enough tears, then you may be at a higher risk to the problems outlined above. It is important that all people considering eyelid procedures go to see an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) to discuss whether surgery would be suitable for you.

How long does the procedure take?

The procedure can take between one and three hours.

What happens after surgery?

Depending on the type of surgery you have had (local or general anaesthetic) you will generally be required to stay in hospital overnight and may need to take up to a week off from work. You will need to keep your head elevated for a few days, including whilst you sleep, to avoid swelling. Eyelid surgery is considered to be fairly comfortable. However, following the operation your eyelids are likely to feel tight and sore and bruising and swelling is to be expected. Bruising should go down after a couple of weeks whereas it may take up to several weeks before swelling completely goes down. The area around your eyes will feel sticky and itchy for several days and will need to be cleaned regularly. During the operation dissolvable stitches or surgical glue may have been used to close the incision, alternatively if stitches need to be removed these will be taken out after about a week of having surgery.

How much is it likely to cost?

Prices range from between £2,500 and £5,000