Upper Blepharoplasty: Frequently Asked Questions

Upper blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin, muscle, and fat from the upper eyelids. It restores a more youthful, alert appearance and can improve vision if drooping eyelids are obstructing sight.

“Blepharo” refers to the eyelid, and “plasty” means to reshape or surgically correct. So blepharoplasty literally means “eyelid reshaping surgery.”

Main causes include:

• Age:Loss of skin elasticity and muscle tone
• Genetics:Hereditary tendency toward ptosis
• Trauma:Injury to the eyelid muscles
• Neurological conditions:Affecting eyelid muscles
• Muscle weakness:Congenital ptosis or muscle disease
• Sun damage:Accelerates aging

No. A facelift addresses the entire face. Upper blepharoplasty targets only the upper eyelids. However, they can be combined for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Typically 30-60 minutes per eye, depending on complexity. Bilateral (both eyes) usually takes 60-90 minutes total operating room time.

Most commonly, local anesthesia with light sedation. General anesthesia is available upon request.

Your eye will be gently held and protected. You can’t see much, but you can communicate with Dr. Askeroğlu if needed.

Removed tissue is documented and typically sent to pathology. It’s saved for laboratory analysis if indicated by your surgeon.

Typically 8-15mm of skin, depending on the amount of excess. Dr. Askeroğlu measures carefully to avoid removing too much.

The incision line is placed in your natural eyelid crease and fades significantly over time. Most scars become nearly imperceptible within 6-12 months.

Dr. Askeroğlu assesses pre-existing asymmetry and accounts for it in the surgical plan. The goal is improvement and balance, not artificial perfect symmetry.

Yes. Bilateral surgery (both eyes simultaneously) is common and offers more balanced results.

Not necessarily. If your eyelids are at a normal height and ptosis is not present, muscle tightening isn’t needed. This is determined during consultation.

Yes, though most patients prefer light sedation for comfort and reduced anxiety.

Most people look “normal” within 1-2 weeks and can return to work by 7-10 days. Full results take 3-6 months.

Mild to moderate discomfort, easily controlled with prescribed pain medication. Most patients are off pain medication by day 3-5.

Typically day 5-7 post-operatively. The removal is quick (2-5 minutes) and causes only slight discomfort.

Desk jobs: 7-10 days. Client-facing roles: 10-14 days. Physical labor: 2-3 weeks.

Light walking: Week 2. Moderate exercise: Week 3. Full exercise: Week 4.

After initial 24 hours, you can gently shower, being careful to keep eyes dry. Avoid hot water.

After 1-2 weeks. Use fresh eye makeup and apply gently.

Most people look reasonable within 1-2 weeks. They’ll still look slightly swollen, but presentable.

Dramatic improvement by month 2-3. Optimal results by month 3-6 as final swelling resolves.

Yes, but it’s placed in your natural eyelid crease where it’s hidden. It fades significantly over 6-12 months.

Initially quite visible (red/pink for 4-8 weeks). As it matures, it becomes pale and thin, eventually nearly imperceptible. By 6-12 months, most scars are barely detectable.

• Sun protection (critical for first 6 months)
• Follow all aftercare instructions
• Don’t skip antibiotic ointment application
• Avoid excessive wound tension
• Maintain proper hydration

Most normal activities by week 2-3. All restrictions typically lifted by week 4.

Not the day of surgery (anesthesia effects). Typically 3-5 days if not taking pain medication.

1-2 weeks minimum, depending on healing. Ask your doctor before swimming.

Begins fading within 3-5 days, mostly gone by week 2-3, completely faded by week 4-5.

Bruising around the eyes is common but varies by person. Some have minimal bruising, others more significant. It fades over 2-3 weeks.

Yes. Dark sunglasses are recommended for sun protection and concealment of bruising.

Very natural. Surgery enhances your appearance without creating an “operated on” look. Results should look like a refreshed, more awake version of you.

Usually not. Most people just notice you look more awake and refreshed. Your secret.

Not in the traditional sense. However, revision surgery can address unsatisfactory results if needed.

Yes, but at a normal rate. The surgery doesn’t stop aging, just resets your eyelids to a more youthful position.

Not necessarily. Many patients’ results last their lifetime. Some may choose revision in 15+ years.

• Your baseline anatomy
• Amount of tissue removed
• Healing response
• Post-operative care compliance
• Realistic expectations
• Surgeon’s expertise

Similar results are likely if your case is comparable. Dr. Askeroğlu will discuss realistic expectations for your specific anatomy.

Dr. Askeroğlu aims for symmetry, but perfect symmetry is impossible (and unnatural-looking). Goals are balanced appearance and natural-looking results.

Revision surgery is an option (though rarely needed). Satisfaction rate exceeds 95%.

• Age 40+ (younger if functional impairment exists)
• Good overall health
• With realistic expectations
• Non-smokers (or willing to quit)
• Motivated by appearance/vision improvement

Ptosis (eyelid drooping) is often treated with levator muscle tightening during blepharoplasty.

Smoking interferes with healing. You should quit at least 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after surgery.

You should be medically cleared by your physician before surgery. Serious health conditions may preclude surgery.

Discuss with Dr. Askeroğlu. Some medications must be adjusted perioperatively.

Surgery should be postponed until after pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Diabetes can affect healing. Good glucose control is important. Discuss with your physician.

There’s no age limit. Older patients can safely have the procedure if medically cleared.

Usually age 40+ is recommended. Younger patients can have surgery if there’s functional impairment (vision obstruction) or congenital ptosis.

Usually yes. Discuss your surgical history with Dr. Askeroğlu.

Yes. It’s one of the safest cosmetic procedures with excellent safety record and minimal serious complications.

• Common (Temporary):
  • Swelling and bruising
  • Dry eye sensation
  • Temporary vision changes
  • Eyelid tightness

   

  Rare:

  • Infection
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Asymmetry
  • Overcorrection
  • Undercorrection
  • Ectropion (outward turning eyelid)
  • Entropion (inward turning eyelid)

No. Serious complications are rare (less than 1-2%).

Minor asymmetry often resolves as swelling decreases. Persistent asymmetry can be addressed with revision surgery (rarely needed).

Tell Dr. Askeroğlu of any allergies beforehand. Allergic reactions to anesthesia are rare.

Low risk with proper aftercare. Antibiotic ointment and following instructions minimize this risk.

This is rare with Dr. Askeroğlu’s careful measurements. If undercorrection occurs, revision can be discussed.

If undercorrection occurs, revision surgery is a simple procedure to address.

Initial tightness is normal. It improves over 2-4 weeks. Persistent tightness is rare and can be addressed.

Blindness is extremely rare. No reported cases with proper surgical technique.

Temporary mild difficulty opening eyes fully is normal. Permanent impairment is extremely rare.

Contact Dr. Askeroğlu immediately. Infections are rare but treatable with antibiotics. Follow all aftercare instructions to prevent.

If your vision is being obstructed by drooping eyelids, yes. Visual field often expands noticeably.

This varies based on degree of obstruction. Some patients experience dramatic improvement.

Vision correction needs don’t change from this procedure.

Yes, but wait 2-3 weeks before reinserting contacts. Ask your doctor’s specific guidance.

Yes, you’ll need to wait until any residual swelling is minimal and you’re cleared by your doctor.

Rare. Temporary blurriness is common but double vision is uncommon.

Not directly. However, opening drooping eyelids may improve perceived vision symmetry.

No, with Dr. Askeroğlu’s approach. Results look natural and enhanced, not overdone.

No. The procedure works with your anatomy to create natural-appearing results.

Deep-set eyes are considered, and surgical approach is customized accordingly.

Prominent eyes don’t preclude surgery, but approach may be customized for your anatomy.

Your natural eyelid shape is enhanced, not radically changed. Results appear natural.

The natural eyelid crease is recreated during surgery. Position should appear natural.

Discuss specific goals with Dr. Askeroğlu. Realistic changes within your anatomy are possible.

Yes. Opening the eyelid area and creating better contour typically makes eyes appear more open and alert.

Opposite. You’ll look more awake and alert (assuming good healing and results).

€3,500 EUR / $4,000 USD (same price whether you choose one eye or both eyes)

All surgical costs, follow-up care, medications, sutures, and facility costs.

Payment plans may be available. Discuss options at consultation.

Usually not for cosmetic cases. May be covered if functional impairment exists. Check with your insurance.

Possibly, if deemed medically necessary. Check with your provider.

Discuss financial options at consultation. Payment plans and options available.

Lower overhead costs and competitive market allow for excellent value without sacrificing quality.

Pricing is straightforward. Discuss payment options and timing at consultation.

Yes. The cost is €3,500 / $4,000 USD regardless of whether you choose surgery on one eye or both eyes. Many patients choose both eyes for symmetrical, balanced results.

• No food or drink after midnight (if general anesthesia)
• Arrange transportation home
• Wear comfortable, loose clothing
• Avoid makeup and nail polish
• Bring insurance card and ID
• Plan time off work

Discuss with Dr. Askeroğlu. Some medications must be stopped before surgery.

Minimal sun is fine, but avoid getting sunburned. Healing is better with healthy skin.

Insurance card, ID, list of medications, signed consent forms, and comfortable clothing.

Yes. Arranging a friend or family member to drive you home is essential.

This is normal. Discuss your concerns with Dr. Askeroğlu. He can address specific worries.

No. Makeup must be removed before surgery.

No. Remove contacts before surgery. Bring glasses if needed.

Arrive 30 minutes to 1 hour before your scheduled surgery time.

Comfortable, loose clothing. Avoid tight shirts. Loose button-up shirts are ideal.

Sleep with head elevated on 2-3 pillows to reduce swelling.

15 minutes on, 15 minutes off for first 48-72 hours, up to 8 hours daily.

Preservative-free artificial tears are recommended. Specific brands will be recommended.

Usually 2-3 times daily as directed, until sutures are removed or healed.

After 24 hours, gently wash your face. Avoid getting the incision very wet.

After 24 hours. Be careful to avoid splashing water in eyes. No hot showers for first week.

Not immediately. Keep it dry for first 24-48 hours. After that, light water contact is OK with careful drying.

Once swelling allows. Initially, elevation helps. You can sleep normally once comfortable.

Not recommended for first week. Sleep on your back with head elevated.

Light activity only for first 2 weeks. No bending, lifting, or strenuous activity.

Light tidying yes. No heavy cleaning, bending, or lifting.

Wait 2-3 weeks until incision is healed and swelling reduced.

If you experience:

• Severe pain uncontrolled by medication
• Vision loss or changes
• Signs of infection
• Excessive swelling beyond expectations
• Allergic reaction symptoms
• Any concerning symptoms

Mild to moderate discomfort, easily controlled with medication. Call if severe.

Yes. This improves over days as swelling decreases.

Yes. Use eye drops. Call if severe or not improving.

Minor asymmetry is common initially and usually resolves. Follow up with Dr. Askeroğlu.

Minor differences are common initially. They usually balance out as swelling decreases. Discuss at follow-up.

Minor discomfort is normal. Call if very uncomfortable or if stitches are coming loose.

Call immediately. Signs include increasing redness, warmth, pus, or red streaking. Early treatment prevents complications.

Temporary incomplete closure during healing is rare but possible. Call immediately.

Slight oozing is normal. Call if bleeding is heavy or persistent.

Not recommended first week. After 2 weeks, short trips OK. After 3-4 weeks, normal travel permitted.

Not recommended first week. Air travel increases swelling and requires arm elevation. After 2-3 weeks, short flights OK.

Not immediately. Wait 1-2 weeks until presentable appearance restored.

No contact sports for 3-4 weeks. Gentle walking OK by week 2.

Wait 2-3 weeks minimum. Chlorine and water exposure should be avoided until incision is fully healed.

Light activity (walking) week 2. Moderate activity week 3. Full activity week 4.

No. Wait minimum 2-3 weeks before any heavy lifting.

Wait at least 2-3 weeks. Start with walking first, then light jogging.

Avoid bending for first 2 weeks. This increases pressure in the head and increases swelling.

Avoid straining for first week. Use stool softeners if needed. Straining increases swelling.

Typically 10-15 years or longer. Some patients never need revision.

Yes. The procedure resets your eyelids, but you continue to age at normal rate.

Usually less than original surgery. Discussed if revision needed.

Yes. Many patients combine with lower blepharoplasty, facelift, or other procedures.

The improvement will remain, but aging continues normally. You may look older than immediately post-surgery, but still better than pre-surgery.

Not necessarily. Many patients never need revision. Plan as needed based on results.

Yes. Botox can be used years later if desired for additional anti-aging effects.

Yes. Other facial procedures can be performed as desired.