Eyelid Surgery / blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty addresses both functional and aesthetic concerns of the upper and lower eyelids. Our surgeons employ precise techniques to correct conditions including dermatochalasis (excess skin), herniated orbital fat (eye bags), and eyelid ptosis (drooping). These conditions can affect both vision and appearance. We use advanced techniques to ensure optimal functional improvement while achieving natural-looking results with minimal scarring and recovery time.

Blepharoplasty provides significant improvements in both function and appearance:

Functional Vision Enhancement: Clinical studies show that correcting upper eyelid dermatochalasis can expand peripheral visual fields by up to 25-30 degrees, improving daily activities like driving and reading. Many patients report reduced eye strain and improved visual comfort following surgery.

Resolution of Compensatory Mechanisms: When eyelids droop, patients often unconsciously raise their eyebrows to improve vision, leading to forehead tension and headaches. Surgical correction eliminates this need, often resolving these secondary symptoms.

Ocular Surface Improvement: Proper eyelid position is essential for tear film distribution and eye protection. Correcting lower eyelid malposition can improve dry eye symptoms and reduce irritation.

Psychological and Social Benefits: Research demonstrates measurable improvements in quality of life scores following blepharoplasty. Patients report increased confidence in social and professional interactions.

Anatomical Correction with Lasting Results: Unlike temporary treatments, blepharoplasty addresses underlying anatomical issues, providing results that typically last 7-10 years for upper eyelids and often longer for lower eyelids.

Efficient Recovery: Most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks, with the majority of swelling resolved by 3-4 weeks post-surgery.

During your consultation, we will conduct a thorough assessment of your eyelid function as well as appearance to determine the most appropriate surgical approach for your specific needs.

Upper eyelid surgery addresses both visual field obstruction and aesthetic concerns caused by excess eyelid tissue. The procedure involves:

Preoperative Assessment: We perform detailed measurements and documentation of upper eyelid position and function, including assessment of visual fields when indicated.

Precision Removal: Careful removal of precisely the right amount of excess skin (dermatochalasis) and, when necessary, protruding orbital fat.

Structural Support: For patients with true eyelid ptosis (drooping due to levator muscle weakness), we may perform additional techniques to strengthen or tighten the eyelid elevating mechanism.

Natural Contour Preservation: Our technique maintains or restores the natural upper eyelid crease and contour, avoiding the hollow or overly tight appearance that can result from excessive tissue removal.

Many patients with significant upper eyelid hooding may qualify for NHS coverage of their procedure if demonstrable visual field restriction is present. We can arrange appropriate testing and documentation if this is a consideration for you.

Lower eyelid surgery addresses both the functional and aesthetic concerns related to lower eyelid position and orbital fat prominence. Our approach includes:

Comprehensive Assessment: Evaluation of lower eyelid tone, position, and orbital fat distribution to determine the optimal surgical approach.

Transconjunctival Technique: When appropriate, we access orbital fat through an incision inside the eyelid, leaving no visible external scar – ideal for younger patients with good skin elasticity who primarily have fat prominence.

Transcutaneous Approach: For patients with excess skin and muscle laxity, we may recommend an approach that allows for skin tightening along with fat repositioning or removal.

Conservative Fat Management: Rather than simply removing orbital fat, we often reposition it to maintain natural contours and prevent a hollow appearance that can occur with aggressive fat removal.

Eyelid Support Procedures: For patients with lower eyelid laxity or malposition, we incorporate canthal tightening techniques to ensure proper eyelid position against the eye, which is essential for comfort and tear film function.

This multifaceted approach provides natural-looking results while addressing functional concerns like lower eyelid laxity that can lead to dry eye symptoms.