Facial surgery · Patient information
Content owner: Dr. Zafer Atakan Practice · Nişantaşı, Istanbul · Updated: July 11, 2026
Blepharoplasty is surgery that refines the skin, muscle and fat tissue of the upper or lower eyelids according to the anatomy of the person's eye area. The aim is not excessive tissue removal, but a balanced result that preserves the eye's closing function and facial expression.
What Is Eyelid Aesthetics (Blepharoplasty)?
Excess skin on the upper eyelid sometimes causes only an aesthetic complaint, while in some people it can affect the visual field. On the lower eyelid, bags, hollows, skin laxity and eyelid support are different problems; the treatment plan varies accordingly.
Brow ptosis, dry eye, thyroid eye disease or eyelid laxity can change the blepharoplasty plan. An ophthalmology assessment is requested when necessary.
Who May Be a Candidate?
- Adults with significant excess skin on the upper eyelids or bags on the lower eyelids
- People with safe surgical limits in terms of dry eye and eyelid closure
- People who understand the difference between brow position and an eyelid problem and have realistic expectations
- People without an active eye infection or uncontrolled systemic disease
What is assessed during the examination?
- Assessment 1
- The upper and lower eyelid skin, fat pads, muscle structure, eyelid tone and brow position are assessed.
- Assessment 2
- Dry eye, contact lens use, vision problems, previous eye surgery and thyroid disease are reviewed.
- Assessment 3
- If necessary, a visual field test or ophthalmology consultation is planned.
- Assessment 4
- Incision sites, options for tissue removal or fat repositioning, and scars are explained.
How Does the Process Work?
- The upper eyelid incision can be planned in the natural crease, and the lower eyelid approach below the lash line or, in suitable patients, on the inner surface of the eyelid.
- Fat tissue is not always removed; in some cases it is preserved or repositioned toward the tear trough.
- If lower eyelid support is insufficient, additional support procedures to maintain eyelid position may be needed.
Recovery and follow-up
Bruising, swelling, a stinging sensation, watering and temporary blurred vision may occur. Cold compresses, eye drops and sleeping position should be applied only as instructed. Severe eye pain, a sudden decrease in vision or rapidly increasing one-sided swelling require urgent assessment.
Expected results and limitations
Whether the result looks natural is evaluated together with the continued protective function of the eyelid. Fine lines, dark discoloration or brow ptosis may not be completely corrected by blepharoplasty.
Alternatives and complementary options
Depending on the type of problem, a brow lift, skin resurfacing, volumizing injections or monitoring without treatment may be options. Under-eye fillers are evaluated separately because they carry specific risks, including vascular occlusion and swelling.
Possible risks and complications
- Bleeding, infection, worsening dry eye symptoms and temporary blurred vision
- Difficulty closing the eyelids, or the lower eyelid turning outward or being pulled down
- Asymmetry, visible scarring, changes in the lash line or excessive/insufficient tissue removal
- Although very rare, bleeding behind the eye and loss of vision
Frequently asked questions
Does blepharoplasty get rid of dark circles under the eyes?
Not always. Dark circles may be due to pigmentation, vascular structure, shadowing or volume loss; surgery only corrects the relevant anatomical components.
Can the upper and lower eyelids be done at the same time?
It can be planned if anatomy and health allow; the procedure required for each eyelid is determined separately.
Does eyelid surgery affect vision?
If excess upper eyelid skin restricts the visual field, it may provide a functional benefit. The vision-related risks of surgery should also be explained during the examination.
Will there be a scar?
Incision scars are adapted to the natural crease or lash line; there is no completely scarless procedure, and scar maturation varies from person to person.
Further reading for patient safety: American Society of Plastic Surgeons – Eyelid Surgery.
This content is for general information. The surgical decision is made after an in-person examination, medical history and the necessary tests.