Tired eyes, drooping eyelids or an upper eyelid that falls over the lashes. An upper eyelid correction, also called blepharoplasty, creates a fresher and more alert appearance. In this article you will find everything about the treatment, recovery and costs.
What is an upper eyelid correction?
In an upper eyelid correction, the plastic surgeon removes excess skin and any fatty tissue from the upper eyelid. As you age, the skin around the eyes loses elasticity. This can result in excess skin that weighs down the eyelid and gives the eyes a tired or sad appearance.
An upper eyelid correction is one of the most requested treatments in plastic surgery. The procedure produces a natural result, making your eyes look open and rested again.
Worried about looking very different after a treatment? Dr Menno Huikeshoven explains in this video what you can expect and how we strive for a natural result.
Who is this treatment suitable for?
You may be a candidate for an upper eyelid correction if:
you suffer from drooping or heavy upper eyelids
the skin of your upper eyelid falls over your lashes
you have a tired or angry appearance due to excess eyelid skin
your field of vision is restricted by the excess skin
you are in good general health
The consultation
An extensive consultation takes place prior to the treatment. During this appointment, the plastic surgeon will discuss your wishes, assess the skin and muscle structure around your eyes, and clearly explain the possibilities and any risks. Your medical history will also be covered, so that the treatment can be optimally tailored to your situation.
The treatment and recovery
An upper eyelid correction is usually performed under local anaesthesia, possibly in combination with mild sedation. The plastic surgeon makes an incision in the natural crease of the upper eyelid, so that the scar is barely visible. Excess skin and, if necessary, fatty tissue are removed. The procedure takes approximately one hour on average and can be performed on an outpatient basis.
Immediately after the treatment, you can expect mild swelling and bruising around the eyes. This generally subsides within one to two weeks. The sutures are removed after approximately one week. Most people can return to work after seven to ten days, depending on the nature of their work. It is important to avoid direct sunlight and strenuous activity during the first few weeks, so that the skin can heal properly.
Risks & Complications
As with any surgical procedure, an upper eyelid correction carries risks. These include swelling, temporary sensitivity, a slightly asymmetric result, or, in rare cases, infection. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will discuss these risks with you in detail, so that you can make an informed decision.
Costs
The cost of an upper eyelid correction depends on the degree of correction and your personal situation. During the consultation, you will receive a personalised quote, including all applicable costs. Please feel free to contact us for a no-obligation discussion, so that we can explore together what is possible for you.