How Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Is Performed

Every woman dreams of preserving the youth and freshness of her face for as long as possible, but under-eye bags and fine lines often reveal age — and can even add up to 7 extra years. It’s hard to accept, but modern medicine has found ways to turn back the clock. The procedure is called blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery). It is aimed at correcting the periorbital area that has changed due to aging. While the procedure doesn’t stop the natural aging process, it effectively eliminates visible age-related changes.

What is blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at removing excess skin and fat deposits in the eyelid area. It effectively addresses issues such as:

• Drooping upper eyelids

• Under-eye bags and fat herniation

• Wrinkles and skin laxity

• Asymmetry or an eye shape the patient is dissatisfied with

While the procedure doesn’t stop the aging process, it significantly rejuvenates the look of the eyes and overall appearance.

At What Age Is Blepharoplasty Performed?

Eyelid correction can be performed at almost any age, typically between 30 and 80. Since aging is highly individual, a medical consultation helps determine the right time and the most suitable surgical technique.

There are also cases when eyelid surgery is performed as early as in a patient’s 20s — often due to congenital imperfections, such as weak orbicularis muscles, which cause the skin to protrude, forming bags and making the face look older. At 25–30 years of age, a condition known as “lymphoid eyelid” may appear, where the eyelid begins to sag. However, at this age, surgery is usually a last resort. Noticeable age-related changes around the eyes typically begin after 40. After examining the patient, the surgeon decides whether a full (four-lid) blepharoplasty or a targeted upper/lower lid lift is required.

Indications for Eyelid Correction

Blepharoplasty is most often performed for aesthetic reasons, including:

• Sagging skin on the upper eyelid

• Prominent under-eye bags

• Wrinkles and skin laxity

• A personal desire to change the shape or slant of the eyes

However, eyelid surgery may also be done for medical reasons, such as:

• Significant skin drooping due to aging

• Sagging skin pressing down on the lash line, obstructing normal vision

The key factor is not age, but clinical indications. These may be absent at 40 and present at 20.

Contraindications

Despite being a relatively low-impact procedure, eyelid surgery has several contraindications:

• Chronic diseases in the acute stage

• Cancer

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• Infectious or viral illnesses

As you can see, the list of contraindications is quite short.

Preoperative Preparation

Surgeons typically recommend quitting smoking and alcohol at least two weeks before the procedure, as these habits reduce blood flow and slow healing. The patient must inform the doctor about any medications, supplements, or vitamins they are taking. Blood tests are conducted before surgery, and based on the results, the doctor decides whether to proceed.

In many Turkish clinics, a “1-day procedure” is offered, where the patient undergoes consultation, medical testing, and surgery — all in one day.

Features of Eyelid Surgery

The surgical approach depends on the chosen technique. Upper eyelid blepharoplasty involves an incision along the natural fold of the upper eyelid. The surgeon removes excess fat and skin and closes the incision with sutures. The procedure typically takes about 35 minutes.

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty involves partial removal and redistribution of fat pads to prevent sagging skin. The surgeon also removes herniated fat and strengthens the lower eyelid muscles. The incision is made along the lash line and the procedure takes up to 50 minutes.

Another technique, called transconjunctival blepharoplasty, leaves no visible scars, as the incision is made along the inner eyelid (conjunctiva). Only excess fat is removed. This method takes about 20 minutes and is recommended for patients under 40 who have persistent under-eye bags but good skin tone and elasticity.

In Turkey, all types of oculoplastic surgeries (outside the eyeball) are performed.

A full (four-lid) blepharoplasty is performed only once and can deliver a dramatic result — rejuvenating the face by 15–20 years. It usually takes about one hour.

Types of Blepharoplasty

Upper Blepharoplasty
Removal of sagging skin and fat deposits through an incision in the natural crease of the upper eyelid.
Procedure time: approximately 35 minutes.

Lower Blepharoplasty
Removal or redistribution of fat tissue to eliminate under-eye bags. The incision is made along the lash line.
Procedure time: up to 50 minutes.

Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty
No external stitches — the incision is made on the inner side of the eyelid. Suitable for patients under 40 with good skin tone.
Procedure time: 20–25 minutes.

Circular (Combined) Blepharoplasty
Comprehensive correction of both upper and lower eyelids. Provides a dramatic rejuvenating effect (looks 15–20 years younger).
Procedure time: around 1 hour.

Possible Complications

A concerning symptom is eye pain. Do not confuse this with minor discomfort near the incision site. If acute pain occurs within the first 1–2 days post-op, it may indicate orbital bleeding, which can impair vision. Immediate medical attention is necessary.

Bruising under the eyes is not dangerous and typically results from gravity. To minimize this, reduce physical activity during the first 4 days. Swelling usually subsides within a week. Infectious complications are extremely rare, as surgical instruments are thoroughly sterilized.

Recovery After Blepharoplasty

This cosmetic eyelid procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, so there’s no need to stay in the clinic overnight. Within an hour after surgery, the patient is discharged with post-op care instructions to return home or to a hotel.

As mentioned earlier, swelling and bruising typically appear within the first 3 days after traditional blepharoplasty. During this period, rest is essential — reduce physical activity and avoid straining your eyes. Stitches are removed after 5–7 days. Within 12–14 days, all visible signs of surgery usually disappear, and you can return to your normal lifestyle. Final results can be evaluated after 4 weeks.

Why Choose Blepharoplasty in Turkey?

If you’re considering eyelid surgery, Turkish specialists are an excellent choice. The advantages include:

• State-of-the-art equipment

• Extensive hands-on experience — before performing their first independent procedure, surgical interns complete over 500 operations

• High standards of medical care

Moreover, Turkey offers maximum comfort for international patients. From arrival to surgery, everything takes place within the clinic. Despite world-class service, the cost of plastic surgery remains affordable. Consultations, tests, and the operation — all happen in one facility.

Turkish clinics also offer transfer services, interpreters, and comfortable hotel accommodations, making it easy to combine treatment with a relaxing holiday. You can enjoy Turkey’s beautiful nature and mild climate while recovering.

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