How Long Does Eyelid Lift Surgery Take?

Eyelid lift surgery (blepharoplasty) is performed to remove excess skin from the upper eyelids and reduce sagging of the lower eyelids. It is usually done for cosmetic reasons, but it can also be an effective way to improve vision in older adults whose drooping upper lids obstruct their visual field.  

The Eye Center at Al Batal Specialized Complex in Jeddah is considered one of the leading centers for treating droopy eyelids and enhancing appearance, with care provided by highly qualified specialists.

Read also: Sagging Eyelids: Causes | Risk Factors | Symptoms | Treatment

Why Is Eyelid Lift Surgery Performed?

An eyelid lift will not eliminate dark circles under the eyes or other facial wrinkles, and it is often combined with other procedures such as laser resurfacing, dermal fillers, or brow lift surgery.

As the skin ages, it gradually loses elasticity. This loss of elasticity leads to excess skin accumulating on the upper and lower eyelids. Extra skin on the lower eyelid causes wrinkles and puffiness, while on the upper eyelids it can form an extra fold of skin that hangs over the lashes and interferes with vision.

The fat that normally cushions the eyeball within the eye socket can also contribute to puffiness in both the upper and lower lids. With age, the thin membrane that holds this fat in place weakens, allowing the fat to protrude into the eyelids.

Read also: What Causes Drooping of the Upper Eyelid?

Who Is a Good Candidate for Eyelid Lift Surgery?

The best candidates for eyelid lift surgery are people who are in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcome. Blepharoplasty can significantly improve appearance and help boost self‑confidence.

Read also: What to Expect from Eyelid Cosmetic Surgery

Preparing for Eyelid Lift Surgery, How It’s Done, and How Long It Takes

You will need someone to drive you home after surgery, and it is important to have a responsible adult stay with you the first night. You should plan to stay home and limit your activities for several days after the procedure to allow your eyelids to heal properly. Some people experience dry eyes after surgery, but this rarely lasts longer than about two weeks. At home, you should have the following items available:

Eyelid lift surgery takes about two hours when both the upper and lower lids are treated at the same time. The doctor usually uses local anesthesia with oral sedation, and in some cases intravenous (IV) sedation may be used.

If all four eyelids are being treated, the surgeon typically starts with the upper lids. The incision is made along the natural crease of the upper eyelid. Through this incision, the surgeon separates the skin from the underlying tissues and removes excess skin and fat. The incision is then closed with very fine sutures, which usually remain in place for 3 to 6 days.

Lower eyelid surgery can be performed using several different techniques. In one approach, the surgeon makes an incision on the inside of the lower eyelid (transconjunctival incision) to remove or reposition fat. Fine lines and wrinkles in the skin can then be softened using a carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser.

Another technique involves making an incision just below the lash line. Through this approach, the surgeon can remove excess skin, tighten lax muscle, and remove or reposition fat. The incision line typically fades and becomes barely noticeable over time.  

After surgery, the doctor will likely apply an ointment to keep the eyes lubricated and cover them with cool compresses.

Immediately after an eyelid lift, you may have blurred vision from the ointment, increased sensitivity to light, and a sensation of dryness or excessive tearing.

Read also: Deep-Set Eye Cosmetic Surgery | Surgical Options and Non‑Surgical Techniques

Results of Eyelid Lift Surgery

The results of upper eyelid lift surgery usually last at least 5–7 years. Lower eyelid surgery rarely needs to be repeated. If the eyelids droop again in the future, a brow lift may be a more appropriate option than another eyelid lift.

Read also: The Difference Between Surgical Blepharoplasty and Thread Eyelid Lift

Complications of Eyelid Lift Surgery

Complications and unwanted outcomes from eyelid lift surgery are uncommon, but they can occur. Potential complications may include:

If you notice any of these complications, you should visit the Eye Center at Al Batal Specialized Complex in Jeddah as soon as possible.

Read also: Ocular Migraine: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

The Cost of Eyelid Lift Surgery

Eyelid lift surgery can cost several thousand US dollars. The total price usually includes the surgeon’s fee, operating room charges, anesthesia fees, and the cost of any necessary tests or prescription medications.  

Health insurance plans generally do not cover cosmetic procedures. However, if blepharoplasty is performed for medical reasons (for example, when drooping eyelids interfere with vision), the insurance provider may cover part or all of the cost.  

For this reason, we recommend contacting the Eye Center at Al Batal Specialized Complex in Jeddah to schedule a comprehensive eye examination and determine whether you are a good candidate for eyelid lift surgery.

Read also: Can Laser Eye Surgery Correct Reading Vision Problems?