PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
Blepharoplasty
Eyelid surgery to address heavy eyelids, loose skin or puffiness of the upper and/or lower lids.
About the procedure
Heavy eyelids, loose skin and puffiness of the upper and/or lower eyelids can develop over time. In some cases, this includes ptosis — upper eyelid hang that obstructs vision. Blepharoplasty addresses these concerns through the surgical removal or repositioning of excess skin, muscle and fat.
Upper lids: After careful pre-operative marking and assessment of the tissue to be removed, an incision is made along the natural eyelid crease. A portion of skin is removed to define the lid and reduce the weight sitting on the eye. Where the procedure is addressing vision obstruction caused by ptosis, it may be eligible for a Medicare rebate — this is assessed on an individual basis.
Lower lids: After assessment of the excess lower lid tissue, an incision is made to remove it. Fat is often repositioned in this area as part of the same procedure. Lower lid blepharoplasty is considered purely cosmetic and is not Medicare rebate-eligible.
Some patients choose to combine blepharoplasty with a facelift or brow lift, performed at the same time. The procedure is usually performed as a day stay, or within ASFB's own rooms, and typically takes between one and two hours, under either local anaesthetic with sedation or a general anaesthetic depending on the extent of surgery.
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Suitability depends on your individual anatomy, general health, and what's driving your concern — heavy eyelids can sometimes be caused by brow position rather than eyelid skin itself, which changes the right surgical approach. This is assessed at consultation, not before. Mr Holten will discuss whether blepharoplasty, a different procedure, or a combination is right for you.
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Your first step is a consultation with Mr Holten to assess your eyelids and discuss whether upper, lower, or combined blepharoplasty is right for you — including whether you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate. The procedure typically takes one to two hours, under local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthetic depending on the extent of surgery.
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As with any surgical procedure, blepharoplasty carries risks. These can include, but are not limited to:
Bleeding, infection, or delayed wound healing
Scarring along the incision line, which is generally well concealed within the natural eyelid crease
Dry or irritated eyes
Changes in vision, which are usually temporary
Asymmetry between the eyes
Risks associated with anaesthesia
The possibility that revision surgery may be needed
Mr Holten will discuss the risks relevant to your specific situation in detail during your consultation, before you decide whether to proceed.
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Recovery timeframes vary between individuals. You'll be given written aftercare instructions covering wound care and activity restrictions, along with follow-up appointments to monitor your healing. Contact details for any concerns during recovery are provided at every stage.
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As with any surgical procedure, individual results vary depending on your anatomy and how your body heals. Mr Holten can discuss realistic expectations for your specific situation during your consultation.
Costs will be confirmed during your consultation and set out in writing before you proceed. Nothing is finalised until you've had the chance to review it in full.
Arrange Your Consultation
Start with a conversation with our team about your goals and whether this procedure is right for you.
