Upper Blepharoplasty
Rejuvenate your eyes and improve peripheral vision with walk-in walk-out surgery
Quick Facts
Procedure Type
Surgical
Anaesthesia
Local
Duration
45 mins - 1 hour
Hospital Stay
Walk-in walk-out
Time Off Work
1 week
Exercise
4 weeks
Final Results
1-3 months
Starting From
£3,600
Overview
Upper blepharoplasty specifically focuses on surgically rejuvenating the upper eyelid area. This is one of the most commonly performed facial procedures and is performed under local anaesthesia as a walk-in, walk-out procedure, allowing you to return home on the same day.
Beyond cosmetic benefits, upper eyelid surgery can improve peripheral vision by 25–30 degrees and may relieve eye strain and headaches caused by heavy, hooded eyelids. The procedure also improves tear film distribution, promoting better eye health.
Depending on the extent of visual field obstruction, you may qualify for NHS coverage if your condition is documented. Our surgeon will assess your eligibility during consultation.
Who Is This Procedure For?
- •Excess upper eyelid skin (hooded appearance)
- •Upper eyelid skin obstructing peripheral vision
- •Drooping eyelids (ptosis)
- •Eye strain or fatigue caused by heavy hooding
- •Desire for a more alert and youthful eye appearance
- •Candidates for combination with brow lift
What Does the Procedure Involve?
Upper blepharoplasty is performed under local anaesthesia, ensuring you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Precise incisions are made along the natural eyelid crease, following the contours of the eye.
Excess skin is carefully removed. In some cases, small amounts of fat or muscle may also be removed or repositioned. The incisions are then closed with fine sutures, and the resulting scar is completely concealed within the natural crease of the eyelid.
The procedure is performed as a day case, allowing you to return home with proper aftercare instructions. You will be able to return to work within one week.
Risks & Considerations
- ⚠Haematoma/bleeding: Occurs in less than 1% of cases.
- ⚠Temporary dry eye or tearing: Common in the first 2–4 weeks and usually resolves with lubricating drops.
- ⚠Asymmetry: Minor differences between eyes may occur. These are often imperceptible to others.
- ⚠Corneal irritation: Temporary irritation may occur and is managed with lubricating drops.
- ⚠Vision changes: Permanent vision changes are very rare (less than 0.05% of cases).
- ⚠Revision surgery: Required in 3–5% of cases for optimal results.
Recovery Overview
Days 1-3
Apply cold compresses frequently. Sleep with head elevated. Vision may be slightly blurry from ointment.
Days 4-7
Swelling begins to reduce. Continue ointment as directed. Avoid strenuous activity.
Day 6-7
Stitches removed at clinic. Scar well-concealed in natural fold. Begin gentle eye care routine.
Week 2
Bruising mostly resolved. Makeup can be worn. Return to work.
Weeks 3-4
All normal activities resume. Final contours refining. Results become increasingly apparent.
Patient Information Leaflet
Download the official BAAPS/BAPRAS patient information leaflet for upper eyelid reduction surgery to learn more about the procedure, risks, and aftercare.
Download PDF LeafletUpper Eyelid Aftercare Guide
Already had your procedure? Visit our detailed online aftercare guide with recovery timelines, checklists, medication schedules, and when to contact us.
Have Questions?
If you have any questions about upper blepharoplasty or would like to discuss your options, please don't hesitate to contact us.