Eyelid Surgery in Istanbul — Brighter, Rested Eyes
Blepharoplasty removes excess skin and puffiness from the upper or lower eyelids to refresh your appearance. A subtle, precise procedure that helps you look as awake and energetic as you feel inside.
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What Is Eyelid Surgery — and How Can It Help You?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. It removes excess skin, reduces puffy fat pockets, and smooths the transition between the under-eye area and the cheek — restoring a refreshed, well-rested look without changing the essential character of your face.
The eyes are one of the first areas to show signs of ageing. Drooping upper lids can make you look tired or older than you feel, while under-eye bags and hollows create shadows that no amount of sleep or skincare fully resolves. Eyelid surgery targets these changes directly and precisely.
According to Mayo Clinic, blepharoplasty may also improve vision in patients whose drooping upper eyelids obstruct their visual field. At Serena Health Istanbul, we assess every patient individually to determine whether upper, lower, or combined eyelid surgery will best achieve your goals.
The Benefits of Eyelid Surgery
A small change around the eyes can make a remarkable difference to your whole face.
Refreshed Appearance
Removes the tired, heavy look caused by sagging lids and under-eye puffiness, helping you appear more awake and youthful.
Better Vision Possible
Upper blepharoplasty can lift heavy, drooping skin that hangs over the eyelashes and partially blocks your field of vision.
Quick Recovery
Most patients return to normal activities within 7–10 days. Swelling and bruising resolve quickly compared to larger facial procedures.
Long-Lasting Results
Blepharoplasty results typically last 10 to 15 years. The procedure effectively turns back the clock on ageing around the eyes.
Upper vs Lower Eyelid Surgery — What Each Procedure Does
Depending on your concerns, your surgeon may recommend upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, or both performed together.
Upper Blepharoplasty
A discreet incision is made within the natural fold of the upper eyelid. Excess skin and sometimes a small amount of fat are removed. The remaining skin is lifted and sutured into place, creating a cleaner, more open eyelid contour without visible scarring.
Lower Blepharoplasty
The incision is placed just below the lower lash line or inside the eyelid (transconjunctival), leaving no external scar. Excess fat is either removed or repositioned to smooth hollows and reduce bags, restoring a flatter, more youthful under-eye transition.
Upper & Lower Together
Many patients benefit from addressing both lids in one procedure. This creates harmonious rejuvenation of the entire eye area and typically involves only one recovery period, making it efficient for international patients.
Fat Repositioning Technique
Rather than removing under-eye fat, it can be repositioned to fill hollows and smooth the tear trough. This modern approach avoids a sunken look and creates results that age more naturally over time.
Your Eyelid Surgery Journey in Istanbul
From consultation to recovery, every step is designed to be clear, comfortable, and personal.
Online Consultation
Send photos of your eyes and share your concerns via WhatsApp. Our surgeons review your eyelid anatomy and recommend upper, lower, or combined surgery.
In-Person Planning
You arrive in Istanbul for a detailed assessment. Measurements and skin quality are evaluated, and your final surgical plan is confirmed together with your surgeon.
Surgery Day
The procedure takes 1–2 hours, usually under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia. You return to your accommodation the same day with full aftercare instructions.
Recovery & Follow-Up
Sutures are removed around day 5–7. Most swelling and bruising fade within two weeks. We continue to support you remotely once you return home.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Blepharoplasty?
Eyelid surgery is suitable for adults of almost any age who are bothered by ageing or puffiness around the eyes. You may be an ideal candidate if you:
- Have excess skin on the upper eyelids that makes you look tired
- Notice under-eye bags, puffiness, or hollows that affect your appearance
- Experience drooping upper lids that partially block your vision
- Are in good general health and do not have active eye conditions
- Have realistic expectations about subtle, natural rejuvenation
- Are a non-smoker or willing to stop before and after surgery
Patients with certain medical conditions such as glaucoma, retinal detachment, thyroid disorders, or uncontrolled diabetes may not be candidates. Your safety is always our first priority.
Before & After Blepharoplasty — What to Expect
Honest recovery expectations help you plan your trip and return home with confidence.
First 24–48 Hours
Cool compresses reduce swelling. Vision may feel slightly blurry from ointment. Rest with your head elevated. Discomfort is usually mild and well-controlled with medication.
Days 3–7
Bruising and swelling peak early, then begin to fade quickly. Sutures are removed around day 5–7. Most patients already feel comfortable in sunglasses in public.
Weeks 1–2
Most bruising has resolved. You can usually return to work, light exercise, and social activities. Contact lenses and eye makeup are typically avoided for about two weeks.
Final Results at 1–3 Months
Residual swelling has fully settled. Incision lines fade into the natural lid creases. Your eyes look brighter, more open, and naturally refreshed — results that typically last 10–15 years.
Ready to See What Eyelid Surgery Can Do for You?
Send us a photo and tell us what bothers you — our surgeons will reply with honest, personalised guidance.
Your Blepharoplasty Questions, Answered
What is the difference between upper and lower blepharoplasty?
Upper blepharoplasty removes excess skin from the upper eyelids to open up the eye area and, in some cases, improve vision. Lower blepharoplasty addresses under-eye bags, puffiness, and hollows by removing or repositioning fat through an incision below the lash line or inside the eyelid.
Will I have visible scars after eyelid surgery?
Upper eyelid incisions are hidden within the natural eyelid crease. Lower eyelid incisions are placed just below the lash line or inside the eyelid, leaving no visible external scar. Once healed, scars are typically extremely difficult to detect.
Is blepharoplasty painful?
Most patients are surprised by how little discomfort they feel. A mild tight or pulling sensation is common during the first few days. Pain is generally well-controlled with standard medication, and many people describe recovery as easier than expected.
How long do blepharoplasty results last?
Results are long-lasting — typically 10 to 15 years for upper eyelid surgery and similarly durable for lower eyelid correction. Ageing continues naturally, but your eyes will always appear more refreshed than if you had not had the procedure.
Can eyelid surgery be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Blepharoplasty is commonly combined with brow lift, facelift, or non-surgical treatments to create balanced facial rejuvenation. If your brows are also heavy, your surgeon may recommend addressing them together for the most harmonious result.
When can I return home after blepharoplasty in Istanbul?
Most international patients stay in Istanbul for 5–7 days, until sutures are removed and the surgeon confirms healing is on track. After that, you can fly home and continue recovery with our remote follow-up support.
Will my eyes look different after surgery?
Your eyes will look brighter, more open, and more rested — but still entirely like you. The goal of modern blepharoplasty is natural rejuvenation, not a dramatic change in eye shape. An experienced surgeon preserves the character of your eyes.
Why choose Istanbul for eyelid surgery?
Istanbul is home to some of the world’s most experienced oculoplastic and facial plastic surgeons, who perform high volumes of blepharoplasty with excellent outcomes. Internationally accredited clinics, modern facilities, and lower costs than Western Europe make it an ideal destination for this procedure.
Ready to Wake Up to Brighter Eyes?
You deserve to look as refreshed and vibrant as you feel. If tired-looking eyes are holding you back, our team in Istanbul is here to guide you with care, clarity, and honest advice.
Talk With Our TeamSerena Health Istanbul · Istanbul, Turkey · Available 7 days a week