Oculoplastic eyelid surgery for medical, functional and cosmetic concerns
Eyelid surgery, also known as oculoplastic surgery, includes a range of procedures performed around the eyes and eyelids. These procedures may be carried out for medical, functional, or cosmetic reasons.
The eyelids play an important role in protecting the eyes, maintaining comfort, and supporting clear vision. Problems affecting the eyelids can cause irritation, watering, blurred vision, discomfort, or a heavy appearance around the eyes.
Eyelid surgery may be recommended to treat:
Some procedures are performed to improve vision and eye comfort, while others are designed to improve appearance and facial balance.
This procedure removes excess skin and sometimes fat from the upper eyelids. It may improve heavy or tired-looking eyelids, obstruction of the upper visual field, and eyelid asymmetry. Learn more about blepharoplasty.
Lower eyelid procedures may help reduce puffiness, under-eye bags, loose skin, and eyelid laxity.
Ptosis surgery corrects a drooping eyelid caused by weakness of the eyelid muscle. In some patients, the eyelid can partially block vision.
These procedures correct eyelids that turn inward (entropion) or outward (ectropion). These conditions can cause irritation, watering, redness, and discomfort.
Small lumps such as cysts or chalazia can often be removed with a minor surgical procedure. Learn more about eyelid lump removal.
Many eyelid procedures are performed under local anaesthetic as day-case surgery, meaning patients usually return home the same day. Depending on the type of procedure, surgery may involve removing excess skin or fat, tightening eyelid muscles, repositioning the eyelid, or removing lumps or lesions. Small stitches are commonly used and are usually removed after one to two weeks if not dissolvable.
After eyelid surgery, it is normal to experience swelling, bruising, mild discomfort or tightness, temporary blurred vision, and watering of the eyes. Most swelling and bruising improve gradually over one to two weeks, although subtle healing can continue for several months.
Patients are often advised to use cold compresses, avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise initially, keep the area clean and dry, avoid rubbing the eyes, and sleep with the head elevated for the first few nights. Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions tailored to your procedure.
Eyelid surgery is generally safe, but as with any surgical procedure, risks can occur.
Common side effects: bruising and swelling, temporary tightness or discomfort, dry or watery eyes, temporary blurred vision, sensitivity around the eyelids.
Uncommon risks: infection, bleeding, visible scarring, asymmetry, delayed wound healing, temporary difficulty fully closing the eyes.
Rare risks: significant bleeding behind the eye, changes in vision, damage to the eye surface, persistent eyelid malposition, need for additional surgery.
Your surgeon will discuss the risks and benefits of your specific procedure in detail before surgery.
The most suitable treatment depends on your symptoms, eyelid anatomy, overall eye health, medical history, and personal goals. A consultation and examination will help determine the best approach for your individual needs.
All eyelid procedures at Vale Eye Surgeons are performed by a fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon and member of the British Oculoplastic Surgical Society, with combined expertise in ophthalmology and eyelid surgery.