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Blepharoplasty

Eyelid Surgery · Upper & Lower Lid Rejuvenation

Blepharoplasty removes excess skin and repositions or reduces fat around the eyelids. It addresses heaviness of the upper lids and puffiness or bags of the lower lids, refreshing the eye area without changing its shape.

Blepharoplasty
Duration1–2 hours
AnaesthesiaLocal with sedation, or general
Hospital stayDay case
Back to work7–10 days

Who this procedure suits

This surgery treats eyelid skin that has lost elasticity and fat that has shifted with time, making the eyes look tired or hooded. Upper and lower lids can be treated separately or together. It does not treat crow's feet, dark circles or brow position, which are assessed individually.

A good candidate if

  • Excess upper eyelid skin that creates a heavy or hooded look
  • Puffiness or fat bags of the lower eyelids
  • Upper lid skin resting on the lashes or interfering with the field of vision
  • Good general health with realistic expectations about eyelid rejuvenation

Not suitable if

  • Uncontrolled dry eye or an untreated eye condition such as glaucoma
  • Active eyelid or eye infection or inflammation
  • Thyroid eye disease that has not been assessed and stabilised
  • Expectation that surgery will change the shape of the eye or remove dark circles

How the procedure is performed

Consultation

Dr Cardinali examines the eyelids, tear-film and brow position, checks lid support and discusses which lids need treatment and what technique suits you. An ophthalmology review may be requested.

Preparation

Routine pre-operative checks. You will be advised on stopping blood thinners and smoking, and asked to arrange someone to drive you home.

Surgery

On the upper lid, excess skin is removed through an incision hidden in the natural crease. On the lower lid, fat is repositioned or reduced through an incision just under the lashes, or from inside the lid when no skin needs removing.

Follow-up

Sutures are typically reviewed within the first week, with further visits as swelling and bruising settle over the following weeks.

Blepharoplasty

Recovery — what actually happens

Day 1-3Swelling and bruising around the eyes peak. Cold compresses and head elevation help; vision may be temporarily blurred by ointment.
Week 1Sutures are usually removed. Bruising begins to fade and can be covered with makeup once the surgeon confirms it is safe.
Week 2-4Most visible bruising resolves and social activities resume. Scars are still pink and sensitive to sunlight.
Month 2-3Swelling continues to settle, particularly on the lower lids. The eyelid contour becomes more natural.
Month 6-12The result stabilises. Incision lines continue to fade and typically sit hidden in the natural eyelid crease.

Honest medicine — the risks

Every surgical procedure carries potential risks. Risks vary with the procedure and your health, and the surgeon will discuss them with you along with the measures used to reduce them:

ScarringIncisions are placed in the natural crease or just under the lashes; scars fade but do not fully disappear
InfectionSterile technique and antibiotic ointment reduce this risk; the area is monitored at follow-up
Delayed wound healingCareful tissue handling and aftercare support healing, particularly in smokers
Dry eye or temporary irritationTear-film is assessed before surgery; lubricating drops are used during recovery
Difficulty closing the eyes fullyConservative skin removal limits this; it is usually temporary when it occurs
Lower lid malpositionLid support is assessed beforehand and technique adjusted; further correction is rarely required
Asymmetry between the two sidesCareful pre-operative marking reduces this, though perfect symmetry cannot be guaranteed

Frequently asked questions

Will blepharoplasty change the shape of my eyes?

The aim is to refresh the eyelids while preserving your natural eye shape. Technique is planned specifically to avoid altering the shape.

Does it treat dark circles or crow's feet?

No. Those are separate concerns and are assessed individually; eyelid surgery treats excess skin and fat.

How long is the result expected to last?

Upper eyelid results are typically long-lasting. The eyelids continue to age naturally, so gradual change over the years is normal.

When can I wear makeup or contact lenses again?

Usually after the sutures are removed and the surgeon confirms the incisions have sealed, commonly around two weeks.

Can upper and lower lids be done together?

Yes, when clinically appropriate they are often treated in the same operation. Dr Roseli will advise what suits your case at consultation.

Is this procedure right for you?

The only correct answer comes from a clinical examination. Book a consultation — in person, or by video if you are outside the UAE.

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