Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Brighten and refresh your gaze
Refined, natural results that restore a rested, open appearance to the eyes — delivered by Board-certified facial plastic surgeons.
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, rejuvenates the delicate skin around the eyes by addressing excess skin, puffiness, and sagging. These changes — often caused by ageing or genetics — can make the eyes appear tired, heavy, or older than you feel. A well-planned blepharoplasty restores a brighter, more open expression while preserving the natural shape and character of your eyes.
At Hillser, eyelid surgery is performed by consultant facial plastic surgeons who understand the precise balance between form and function in this sensitive area. Our approach focuses on subtle, harmonious enhancement — the goal is to look rested and refreshed, not different.
Procedure time
1-2 hours
Anaesthetic
General or local anaesthetic
Hospital stay
Day case
Time off work
Approximately 2 weeks
Return to exercise
3 weeks
Final results
3-6 months
What the procedure involves
Eyelid surgery can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, depending on your concerns.
Upper eyelids — incisions are concealed within the natural eyelid crease to remove or reposition excess skin and fat, reducing hooding and restoring an open, alert appearance.
Lower eyelids — the incision is placed just below the lash line or inside the eyelid (transconjunctival approach) to address puffiness and under-eye bags. In many cases, fat is carefully redistributed rather than simply removed, smoothing contours and reducing hollowing around the eye.
Support procedures — where indicated, gentle tightening at the outer eyelid corner (canthopexy) or a midface lift may be recommended to maintain natural eyelid position and long-term shape.
The procedure typically takes between one and two hours. Incisions are closed with fine sutures and heal discreetly within the natural folds of the eye area.
Benefits
Restores a youthful, refreshed appearance to the eyes — reducing puffiness, drooping, and under-eye bags.
May improve upper-field vision when excess upper eyelid skin obstructs the line of sight.
Reduces the forehead muscle strain that contributes to wrinkles and a heavy brow.
Creates smoother, more balanced upper-face contours with long-lasting results.
Recovery and aftercare
Swelling and mild bruising are common for the first week and subside gradually. Mild tightness, dryness, or light sensitivity may occur temporarily and are managed with prescribed eye drops or ointment. Most patients return to daily activities within approximately 7-10 days.
Strenuous exercise and contact lens wear should be avoided for three weeks. Scars fade progressively, blending naturally into the eyelid creases. Our clinical team provides detailed aftercare guidance and follow-up appointments throughout recovery to ensure smooth healing.
Consultation and Candidacy
Your consultation at Hillser includes a detailed assessment of eyelid structure, skin quality, eye function, and overall facial balance. We review your medical history, discuss your goals, and determine whether upper, lower, or combined blepharoplasty will provide the best outcome for your anatomy.
Good candidates are healthy adults with realistic expectations who wish to rejuvenate the eye area without altering their natural expression. For some patients, complementary procedures such as a brow lift or midface lift can enhance the overall balance and longevity of results.
Individual factors including skin elasticity, tissue volume, ethnic background and underlying bone structure all influence the surgical approach and quality of result — each of these is assessed carefully at consultation.
Why choose Hillser Clinic?
Consultant-led expertise – eyelid surgery performed by consultant facial plastic surgeons trained in both aesthetic and reconstructive blepharoplasty.
Advanced techniques – upper and lower lid approaches selected and tailored to each patient's anatomy, including fat redistribution and canthopexy where indicated.
Integrated care – eyelid surgery can be combined with brow lift or facelift as part of a coordinated, consultant-planned rejuvenation programme.
Safety and clinical excellence – procedures carried out in accredited, CQC-certified facilities across leading London and South East hospitals.
FAQs
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Blepharoplasty removes or repositions excess skin and fat from the upper and/or lower eyelids through small, discreetly placed incisions, restoring a more open and rested appearance to the eye area.
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A more open, alert appearance with smoother eyelid contours. Results are natural-looking and long-lasting, with subtle ageing continuing over time.
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Discomfort is mild and well-managed with standard pain relief. Bruising and swelling are most noticeable in the first week and fade steadily thereafter.
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Many patients notice an improvement in upper-field vision after upper eyelid surgery once obstructing skin is removed. Temporary mild blurring may occur due to protective ointment used during early healing.
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Complications are uncommon but may include bruising, temporary dryness, or minor asymmetry. Your surgeon will discuss your individual risk profile in full at consultation.
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We can usually offer appointments within just a few days. Diagnostics and any procedures are coordinated promptly at our partner hospitals in London and the South East.
If tired or heavy eyelids are affecting your confidence or comfort, Hillser's consultant surgeons can help. Discover how subtle, expert correction can restore brightness and openness to your eyes.
Begin your doctor-guided aesthetic journey today.