Suitability for a Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)


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As with all cosmetic surgical procedures, you should discuss your suitability as a candidate for the operation with your surgeon.  Generally, if you are a physically healthy adult of 35 years or older then you may be suitable for eyelid surgery.

Factors For Consideration

You may be suitable for a Blepharoplasty if you have any of the following:


  • Excess skin in either the upper or lower eyelids
  • Undesirable ‘tired’ or ‘old’ looking eyes
  • Problems with vision resulting from excessive skin or fat in the eyelid

Blepharoplasty produces a relatively subtle aesthetic effect: for example, it will not generally remove lines caused by ageing around the eye, or radically alter your facial appearance.  It is important to have practical and realistic expectations from your surgery.  The main result will be a general lifting and tightening of the skin on the upper and/or lower eyelids; the removal of fatty deposits should give the eyes a fresher, wider look once the healing process is complete. 

To achieve younger looking skin around the eye, complementary procedures such as chemical peels, dermabrasion and treatments such as Botox may be suitable.  You need to be honest and comprehensive in your discussions with your consultant, as their expertise should help decide what will be most effective for you.  Be aware that to achieve all your goals it may take more than one procedure, or it may be that Blepharoplasty is not the best course of action.  A good surgeon should be honest and open with you and reach a mutual decision as to what, if any, cosmetic work would suit your needs.  You should neverfeel pressured into making a decision that you are uneasy or unsure about.  Remember, it’s your skin, and your money that you are spending; don’t agree to any procedures you are unhappy about.  If in doubt, seek a second opinion, or discuss your thoughts with other individuals who have undergone a Blepharoplasty themselves.  Seek a breadth of advice, but remember to take into consideration the provenance of your research; ensure that any medical advice in particular is from an accredited surgeon or practitioner.

Finally, bear in mind that you will need to provide a detailed and honest account of your own medical history in initial consultations.  There are various hereditary and lifestyle considerations that will need to be taken into account when discussing Blepharoplasty. 

These include:

  • Raised blood pressure and hypertension
  • Thyroid problems
  • Eye disorders
  • A history of heart disease or associated complications
  • Diabetes

You need to provide details of any of the above, as they could increase the likelihood of complications during surgery, and during the post-operative phase.  If you have any doubts or concerns, raise them with your surgeon. 


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