Op. Dr. Emre Özbey

Facial surgery

Upper and lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)

Correction of excess skin and fat in the upper and lower eyelids.

Blepharoplasty corrects drooping skin of the upper eyelid and bags under the eyes. Incisions are placed in the eyelid crease or just below the lashes; for the lower lid, the inner surface of the eyelid is sometimes used.

How is it performed?

In the upper eyelid, the incision is placed in the natural lid crease; excess skin and, if needed, some muscle and fat are removed. In the lower eyelid, the incision is made just below the lashes or on the inner surface of the lid; the fat causing bags is removed or repositioned into the tear trough. Upper and lower lids can be treated separately or in the same session.

Who is it suitable for?

  • People with drooping upper lids or lower-lid bags
  • Those whose eye conditions, such as dry eye, are under control
  • Those whose general health is suitable for surgery

Consultation and preparation

  • At the first consultation, your expectations, medical history and current medications are discussed in detail.
  • Blood tests and any other necessary examinations are carried out before surgery, and an anaesthetist's assessment is obtained.
  • Blood thinners, certain herbal products and supplements may need to be stopped for a period beforehand on the physician's advice.
  • Smoking impairs wound healing; a break of at least several weeks before and after surgery is recommended.
  • Fasting times and your arrival time at the hospital are given to you in advance.

Recovery

Stitches are usually removed within a week. Bruising and swelling subside noticeably within 1–2 weeks.

Aftercare advice

  • Take the prescribed medication and follow the dressing instructions as advised.
  • Short walks in the early period support circulation; avoid heavy lifting and intense exercise until your physician approves.
  • If recommended, wear the garment, bandage or compression clothing for the specified period.
  • Protect the incision areas from direct sunlight during the first months.
  • Attend your follow-up appointments regularly; contact us without delay if you develop fever, increasing pain, redness or discharge.

Possible risks and complications

  • Bleeding and haematoma
  • Infection
  • Dry eyes
  • Eyelid malposition
  • Asymmetry

Frequently asked questions

When can I use screens after eyelid surgery?

Short periods of use are possible from the first days, but frequent breaks are recommended as the eyes may feel dry and tired.

Does this procedure correct a drooping eyelid (ptosis)?

Ptosis is caused by weakness of the muscle that lifts the eyelid and requires a separate surgical correction. The two are distinguished at the consultation and can be planned together if needed.

Where is the surgery performed?

Operations are performed in licensed hospitals in Istanbul, primarily Liv Hospital Topkapı, with an anaesthetist present.

I am travelling from abroad. How long should I stay in Istanbul?

This depends on the type of surgery and your recovery. After the preliminary assessment, the recommended length of stay is given to you in writing.