Blepharoplasty removes or repositions excess skin, muscle and fat around the eyes to treat heavy upper lids, hooding and under-eye bags. It is one of the operations with the quickest visible improvement and a relatively short recovery, which makes it popular with visitors to Istanbul. Because the eyes are so central to the face, a conservative, precise approach matters.
Upper vs lower eyelid surgery
| Upper blepharoplasty | Lower blepharoplasty | |
|---|---|---|
| Treats | Excess, hooded skin; heaviness; sometimes vision obstruction | Under-eye bags, hollows, some loose skin |
| Incision | In the natural crease of the upper lid | Inside the lower lid (transconjunctival) or just below the lashes |
| Anaesthesia | Often local with or without sedation | Often sedation or general |
| Complexity | Relatively straightforward | More technically demanding |
In lower lid surgery, many surgeons now reposition fat into hollows rather than removing it, to avoid a sunken look.
Is it cosmetic or functional?
Heavy upper lids can block peripheral vision. In such cases an eye examination may document the problem. For visitors, the procedure is usually paid privately either way.
Recovery
- Swelling and bruising for 1–2 weeks; cold compresses help in the first days.
- Stitches (upper lid) usually removed after 5–7 days.
- Many patients fly home after about a week if cleared.
- Avoid contact lenses, eye makeup and strenuous exercise for a couple of weeks.
- Scars in the upper crease usually fade to a fine line over months.
Typical costs in Istanbul
Upper or lower blepharoplasty is often quoted at about €1,500–€3,000 each, and €2,500–€4,500 for both, depending on surgeon, hospital and technique.
Risks
Dry eyes, temporary difficulty closing the eyes fully, asymmetry, lower lid malposition (pulling down), and rarely serious complications affecting vision. Tell your surgeon about dry eye, previous eye surgery or thyroid eye disease. See the safety guide.
Who should operate?
Plastic surgeons and oculoplastic surgeons (eye specialists with plastic surgery training) both perform blepharoplasty. Experience with the specific procedure, especially lower lid surgery, is what matters most.
Frequently asked questions
Can eyelid surgery be combined with a facelift?
Yes, often. See facelift in Istanbul.
How long do results last?
Upper lid results often last many years; lower lid results are usually long-lasting.
Are there non-surgical options for under-eye bags?
Fillers can help hollows in some people but not true fat bags. See non-surgical aesthetics.
This article is general information, not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.
