Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, addresses changes around the eyes that often develop with age. As skin gradually loses elasticity and muscle support softens, excess skin can accumulate on the upper eyelids, while fat beneath the eyes can shift forward, creating puffiness or eye bags.
These changes can make the eyes look tired, heavy or older than you feel. Eyelid surgery aims to restore a lighter, more rested appearance while preserving natural expression.
When eyelid surgery may help
You may consider eyelid surgery if you feel concerned about:
- loose or sagging skin on the upper eyelids
- puffiness or excess fat in the upper eyelids
- bags beneath the eyes
- drooping of the lower eyelids that exposes white beneath the iris
- excess skin and fine creasing of the lower eyelids
Eyelid surgery improves contour and openness around the eyes but does not aim to remove every line or alter eye shape.
A considered approach to eyelid surgery
Blepharoplasty improves the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both by removing or repositioning excess skin, fat and soft tissue. Because the eyelids play a vital role in eye protection and expression, careful planning matters.
Ms Tzafetta considers eyelid anatomy, skin quality, and eye health when planning surgery, ensuring that results appear natural and that function is protected.
Eyelid surgery techniques
Ms Tzafetta tailors the surgical approach to your anatomy and concerns.
For the upper eyelids, she places incisions within the natural eyelid crease, where they heal discreetly. Through this incision, she removes excess skin, repositions fat as needed, and supports the underlying muscle.
For the lower eyelids, she usually places incisions just beneath the lash line, following natural contours. This approach allows the removal of excess skin and the adjustment of underlying fat to smooth the transition between the eyelid and the cheek.
In selected cases where skin excess remains minimal, Ms Tzafetta may use a transconjunctival approach, placing the incision inside the lower eyelid. This technique avoids external scars and suits younger patients with good skin tone.
Eyelid surgery may be performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or under general anaesthesia. Ms Tzafetta often performs the procedure as a day case and may combine it with other facial surgery when appropriate.
Your eyelid surgery consultation
During this appointment, you can explain what concerns you about your eyelids and what changes you hope surgery might achieve. Ms Tzafetta will:
- review your medical history and medications
- assess eyelid structure, skin quality and eye position
- ask about eye dryness, vision concerns or thyroid conditions
- discuss suitable techniques and realistic outcomes
- explain risks, recovery and long-term expectations
Recovery and expectations
Recovery depends on whether surgery involves the upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both.
Most people experience swelling and bruising for the first 7 to 10 days, with steady improvement over the following week. Many feel comfortable returning to desk-based work within 7 to 14 days, depending on bruising and how confident they feel in public.
Exercise and more strenuous activity usually resume after 2 to 3 weeks, once healing progresses. Ms Tzafetta will provide personalised guidance tailored to your surgery and lifestyle.
Final results continue to refine over several months as swelling settles and tissues soften. Eyelid surgery aims to create a rested, natural appearance rather than a tight or over-corrected look.
Understanding limitations
Eyelid surgery removes excess skin only from the treated eyelid area. It does not remove crow’s feet or wrinkles extending onto the cheeks.
If brow position or outer eye creasing contributes to an aged appearance, Ms Tzafetta may discuss alternatives, such as a brow lift, skin resurfacing, or injectable treatments, to achieve better overall balance. Each treatment plan reflects individual anatomy and long-term outcome quality.
A specialist, measured approach
Under the care of Ms Tzafetta, eyelid surgery centres on anatomical precision, eye safety and natural facial harmony.
Her experience in facial and reconstructive surgery supports a careful, evidence-based approach that prioritises function, realism and long-term satisfaction.
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) FAQs
How long does eyelid surgery take?
Eyelid surgery usually takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on whether the upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both are treated. Ms Tzafetta will explain the expected duration during your consultation based on your anatomy and treatment plan.
Will eyelid surgery leave visible scars?
Ms Tzafetta places incisions within natural eyelid creases or just beneath the lash line to keep scars as discreet as possible. In selected cases, she places the incision inside the lower eyelid, leaving no visible external scar. Healing, skin type and technique influence scar appearance, which Ms Tzafetta will discuss with you in advance.
How long does recovery take?
Most people experience swelling and bruising for the first 7 to 10 days, with steady improvement over the following week. Many feel comfortable returning to desk-based work within 7 to 14 days, depending on bruising and confidence in public.
Strenuous exercise usually resumes after two to three weeks. Ms Tzafetta will give personalised guidance throughout recovery.
Will my eyes look very different?
Eyelid surgery aims to refresh the eye area rather than change eye shape or expression. The goal is a rested, natural appearance that fits the rest of your face.
Is eyelid surgery painful?
Most people describe recovery as uncomfortable rather than painful. Tightness, swelling and mild irritation are common early on. Pain relief medication helps manage discomfort, which usually settles quickly.
Can eyelid surgery affect my vision?
Eyelid surgery does not aim to change vision. Ms Tzafetta carefully assesses eye health and eyelid position to protect eye function. Temporary blurred vision may occur immediately after surgery due to swelling or ointment use, but this typically resolves quickly.
Can eyelid surgery be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Ms Tzafetta often combines eyelid surgery with procedures such as a facelift, neck lift or fat transfer when this improves overall facial balance. She will discuss suitable combinations during consultation.
Who performs eyelid surgery?
Kalliroi Tzafetta performs eyelid surgery with a focus on anatomical accuracy, eye safety and natural facial harmony. Her experience in facial and reconstructive surgery supports careful planning and durable results.
When should I consider eyelid surgery?
You may consider eyelid surgery if changes around your eyes make you look tired, heavy or older than you feel. Surgery works best when decisions feel thoughtful and unhurried. A consultation with Ms Tzafetta can help clarify whether eyelid surgery suits your goals and anatomy.
Patient Experiences
Many people find it helpful to hear from others who have been through a similar experience. The reflections below share individual patient perspectives, offered to help you understand what care and recovery can feel like in practice.
Could not have asked for a better outcome
From the start of my plastic surgery journey to the finish, Ms Tzafetta provided very supportive, jargon-free advice and was clear about her expectations of my procedure. I am delighted with the results which have given me a much “fresher” appearance. I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome and am very grateful to Ms Tzafetta and her wonderful skills as a plastic surgeon.
Amazing Five Star
Absolutely fantastic from start to finish. Highly recommended from start to finish. Amazing results will definitely return for further surgery. Thank you for your professionalism x. I was made to feel very relaxed from the first point of walking through the door.
Great upper blepharoplasty results
Meeting Miss Tzafetta is a most pleasant experience. I have had great results for upper eye blepharoplasty, a very professional surgeon,and also the most thorough after care too.
Further Reading:
British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons
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