Eyelid lift (or blepharoplasty) is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to correct excess skin, fat pockets, or sagging observed on the upper and/or lower eyelids. The goal of this intervention is to open up the gaze, rejuvenate facial expression, and reduce visible signs of aging around the eyes.
This is a targeted surgical procedure to remove loose skin and excess fat, while preserving the natural look of the eyes as much as possible. Eyelid lift can be performed alone or in combination with other facial aesthetic procedures as needed, such as canthopexy, brow lift, temporal lift, or eyebrow transplant.
The cost of eyelid lift varies depending on the technique used (upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both), the surgeon’s fees, and the region. In France, the average cost ranges from €2,000 to €4,000 for a complete blepharoplasty.
This price is generally comparable, or even sometimes lower, than that of other eye rejuvenation techniques (such as lasers or repeated filler injections), especially when considering the lasting effect of the result.
Eyelid lift has notable specifics compared to non-surgical alternatives:
For complementary or specific results, blepharoplasty can also be combined with techniques such as lash graft or treatment of frown lines.
It all starts with a first consultation with a specialist surgeon. During this interview, the practitioner assesses the area to be treated, discusses your expectations, examines your skin condition, presence of fat pockets, as well as tissue tone.
Medical photographs may be taken to compare evolution before/after. The surgeon also checks for medical contraindications and informs you of the postoperative course. A detailed quote and informed consent are given to the patient after this appointment.
Blepharoplasty can involve the upper, lower, or both eyelids simultaneously. For the upper lids, the incision is hidden in the natural crease, allowing removal of excess skin and, if needed, some fat. For the lower lids, the incision is made just under the lashes or through the conjunctiva in certain cases, to treat bags and redrape the skin.
The procedure is meticulous in order to preserve the natural look of the eyes and to ensure the most discreet scar possible. The exact technique will be adapted to each patient’s anatomy.
In general, the procedure lasts from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on the number of eyelids addressed. It takes place either under simple local anesthesia (with or without sedation) or under general anesthesia depending on your comfort, your health status, and the complexity of the procedure.
The operation is most often performed on an outpatient basis, allowing return home a few hours later.
Pain is usually mild after eyelid lift, manifesting as discomfort, a feeling of tightness or slight pulling. Simple painkillers are generally sufficient to relieve these sensations, and prescription eye drops may be recommended if the eyes are dry.
Bruising and swelling are common for about ten days but gradually subside. Wearing sunglasses is recommended during healing to protect the eyes.
Recovery is gradual: plan on 7 to 15 days of social downtime, as time is needed for bruising and swelling to disappear. Sutures are removed between the 5th and 7th day.
Resuming sports and strenuous activities is discouraged for two to three weeks. Eyelid makeup is generally possible from the 10th day, after checking with the surgeon.
Eyelid lift is in principle a one-off procedure with lasting results. It is not necessary to undergo several sessions, even though, in some cases, a touch-up can be considered later to perfect the result, especially if eyelid changes or facial aging justify it over the years.
However, the majority of patients see a long-lasting effect, with no need to repeat the procedure, unlike with injections or non-surgical eye contour treatments.
Eyelid lift generally provides highly satisfactory results, both aesthetically and functionally. The gaze immediately appears more open and rested, with a noticeable disappearance of bags or excess skin. The aesthetic benefit becomes fully visible after the swelling and bruising have subsided, that is between 2 and 4 weeks postoperatively.
In terms of longevity, blepharoplasty is renowned for providing a long-lasting effect: most patients benefit from a visibly rejuvenated gaze that lasts for 8 to 12 years, and often longer. However, the natural process of skin aging continues, and in some cases, a secondary correction can be considered several years after the first procedure. Overall, eyelid lift remains one of the most definitive and stable methods for rejuvenating the eye area.
Like any surgical procedure, eyelid lift carries risks that should be known and monitored. Usual postoperative effects include swelling, bruising, temporary discomfort or tightness, most often resolving within the first two weeks. Specific complications may include hematoma, infection, delayed healing, or difficulty in closing the eyelids.
Among the specific points to watch for, it is important to notify the surgeon of any redness, unusual pain, vision problems, discharge or fever in the days following the intervention. The occurrence of dry eye or watering can also happen, sometimes requiring appropriate local treatment. Finally, an excess or residual skin asymmetry may exceptionally require a secondary correction. Medical monitoring and strict adherence to postoperative instructions are essential for a quality result.
