As you age, the skin around your eyes can lose elasticity, leading to loose skin and fine lines. While non-surgical options may offer solutions, certain cases require surgical intervention. This is where blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery, may be suitable for you.
This surgical procedure focuses on the upper or lower eyelids, addressing both functional and cosmetic concerns. By removing excess skin, addressing fat distribution, and repositioning the muscles, blepharoplasty offers a comprehensive surgical solution for achieving improved eyelid firmness and even improved eyesight.
Blepharoplasty Surgery, at a glance
Target area: Loose upper/lower eyelid skin and/or fat pads on the upper/lower eyelids
Time off work: 1 – 2 weeks
Total recovery: 6 weeks
Scar position: Upper eyelid crease and/or lower lash line
What is Blepharoplasty Surgery?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess skin and tightening of tissue, muscles and fat pads on the eyelids. The purpose of eye lift surgery is to improve the vision and firmness of the eyes and the surrounding areas. Eyelid plastic surgery addresses excess skin, displaced fat, or loose tissue around the eyelids.
There are different types of eyelid surgery. Lower eye blepharoplasty focuses on the lower eyelids. Upper blepharoplasty, also known as hooded eyelid surgery focuses solely on the upper eyelid area. Full blepharoplasty focuses on both the lower and upper eyelid areas.
Benefits of Blepharoplasty Surgery
There are many benefits of eyelid lift surgery, some benefits are medical because they can improve your vision (as removing loose skin can expand your visual field). Some benefits are cosmetic, such as removing excess skin and tightening the skin around the eyes.
- Improved vision: Removal of excess skin can improve the field of vision.
- Reduced eyestrain: Minimised strain on eye muscles due to lifted eyelids.
- Unobstructed view: Enhanced ability to see more clearly and comfortably.
- Reduction of hooding: Reducing loose skin that might hinder vision.
- Enhanced comfort: Relief from discomfort caused by excess skin on the eyelids.
- Potential health improvement: Reducing the loose skin that may irritate.
Eyelid Surgery Before and After Photos
Disclaimer: All information on the Gold Coast Plastic Surgery website is general in nature and is not intended to be medical advice, nor does it constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Results can vary significantly and depend on individual patient circumstances. Please be aware that the outcomes shown are specific to those patients and may not necessarily reflect the results others may experience. Individual results can vary due to many factors, including genetics, diet, and exercise. All images on this website, unless specified as real patient images, are graphics used for illustrative purposes only. Surgery risks and complications will be covered in detail during a consultation with your surgeon. Book a consult for details regarding your cosmetic surgery procedure
View All Blepharoplasty Before and After Images
Blepharoplasty Cost
Eyelid surgery cost is an important factor when considering surgery. Blepharoplasty costs in Brisbane and blepharoplasty on the Gold Coast costs are roughly around the same price. However, eyelid surgery in Brisbane and eyelid surgery on the Gold Coast can differ greatly depending on the surgeon you select. Eye lift cost is an important consideration however, choosing an experienced surgeon you can trust with your eyes is the most important decision.
Download our Detailed Procedure Guide
Learn more about blepharoplasty surgery in our detailed procedure guide:
Types of Eyelid Surgery
Upper Blepharoplasty
The upper blepharoplasty procedure begins with an incision made in the natural crease of the eyelid. This ensures that any scarring can be concealed, where possible. Dr Doyle then removes excess skin and excess fat pads that may be causing loose skin around the upper eyelid area. After the necessary surgical techniques are completed, the incision is sutured closed.
Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower eyelid blepharoplasty offers several incision techniques, including the transconjunctival approach (on the lower eyelid) or the skin incision approach (just beneath the lash line).
The surgeon will generally reposition and/or remove loose and excess fat pad tissue. This step can result in a firmer, more flatter under-eye area.
Combined Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty
Combined upper and lower blepharoplasty addresses both the upper and lower eyelids in a single procedure. For eyelid surgery on the Gold Coast, patients can combine both upper and lower eye surgeries. This can remove excess skin and fat and then reposition underlying tissue.
Suitable Candidate
Find out if you are a suitable candidate for blepharoplasty by taking this eyelid assessment. Listed below are some of the key factors for candidates.
Excess Skin on the Eyelids
Individuals may have loose upper eyelids that impede vision or create discomfort. Along with loose lower eyelids that may pull the eye downwards.
Excess Skin
Surgery may be suitable for those with significant overhanging skin that obstructs vision. Removal of excess skin during blepharoplasty surgery can increase the field of vision.
Excess Eye Tissue & Excess Fat Pads
Candidates may experience under-eye protrusion, due to excess fat deposits or weakened tissues. Eye surgery can address the puffiness (edema), resulting in a firmer under-eye area.
Impaired Vision
Individuals with severe eyelid drooping that obstructs peripheral or central vision. Blepharoplasty aims to increase vision by lifting and tightening the excess eyelid skin.
The Blepharoplasty Procedure
- Anesthesia
General anaesthesia is administered in an accredited hospital. - Incision placement
Incisions are placed along natural skin folds to minimise scarring. - Removal of excess skin and fat
Skilful removal of excess skin and excess fat can improve vision. - Muscle adjustment (if applicable)
Addressing muscle laxity to improve muscle performance. - Suturing the incisions
Closure techniques to promote optimal healing.
Recovery and Aftercare
Blepharoplasty recovery is an important aspect following an eye lift. It’s crucial to follow aftercare steps to ensure the best recovery possible.
- Immediate Post-operative Care
Monitoring vital signs, initial healing, and addressing discomfort to ensure a smooth recovery. - Managing Discomfort and Swelling
Implementing effective pain management techniques, incorporating cold compresses and elevating the treated area. - Incision Care and Hygiene
Keeping the incisions clean and following recommended care instructions. - Follow-up Appointments
Schedule post-operative visits to monitor progress and address concerns.
Results and Future Care
Expected Results
The results of blepharoplasty can vary based on individual factors such as age, skin elasticity, genetics, and the specific technique used during the procedure. However, in general, the surgery addresses excess skin on the eyelids and excess fat under the eyes. Patients can expect a more firmer eye area and enhanced vision.
While results can vary, the effects of blepharoplasty generally include improved vision. The results typically last for several years or even up to a decade, depending on factors like genetics, lifestyle choices, and the natural aging process. While the aging process continues, the reduction of excess skin through blepharoplasty surgery tends to remain a preferred surgical outcome, when compared to what would have been the case without the surgery.
Future Maintenance
Skincare Routine: Adopt a gentle skincare routine that includes moisturising and protecting the delicate eye area. Use products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides to maintain skin hydration and elasticity.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to promote overall skin health.
Regular Check-ins: Attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon Dr Doyle as recommended. This allows him to monitor your progress and address any potential concerns early.
Tips for Future Results
- Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking enough water, as hydrated skin is more resilient and less prone to premature aging.
- Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to skin aging and impact the longevity of your results.
- Sun Protection: Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses with UV protection and applying sunscreen daily.
- Be Cautious with Makeup: If you use makeup, choose hypoallergenic products where possible and avoid applying excessive pressure when removing makeup around the eyes.
Risks and Complications
Similar to any surgical procedure, lower and upper eyelid surgery does carry certain risks.
These potential risks may include, but are not limited to:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
By diligently following your Dr Doyle’s pre-operative and post-operative instructions and closely monitoring your recovery, you can help minimise the risks.
Minimising Risks with a Skilled Surgeon
Minimising risks with a skilled surgeon involves adhering to pre-operative instructions, including following guidelines for medications, diet, and habits before surgery. When considering a surgeon, it’s crucial to choose an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon.
For blepharoplasty surgery on the Gold Coast, it is vital to choose an experienced blepharoplasty specialist plastic surgeon. Dr Doyle is a specialist plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience.
Next Step – Book a Consultation with Dr Doyle on the Gold Coast
Our team are here to help you achieve your surgery goals. Get in touch now for further information about blepharoplasty surgery on the Gold Coast.
If you would like to know more about eyelid surgery, or to book a consultation, please contact us today.
About Dr Mark Doyle FRACS (Plas) – Queensland Plastic Surgeon
Servicing patients in Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Cairns and New South Wales NSW – Northern Rivers, Byron Bay, Ballina, Lismore and more.
Dr Mark Doyle is a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 30 years of experience performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He has completed all required training and only carries out approved surgical practices. There are NO undertrained doctors or cosmetic doctors acting as surgeons at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery.