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Practical Information
Plastic Surgery.
Correct eyelid ptosis (drooping eyelids) on the upper and/or lower eyelids.
1 to 2 hours.
General or local anesthesia.
Outpatient care.
7 to 10 days.
What is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a procedure designed to rejuvenate the upper and/or lower eyelids by removing excess skin and fat.
It is one of the most popular and commonly performed aesthetic surgeries, sought both for cosmetic reasons – such as removing sagging skin, under-eye bags, or correcting eyelid ptosis (drooping eyelids) that create a tired and aged appearance – and for functional purposes, when excess skin affects the visual field.
How is it performed?
Upper Blepharoplasty
A procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids, restoring muscle tone. A fine suture is placed at the end of the surgery and removed after approximately five days.
Lower Blepharoplasty
This procedure removes excess skin and fat from the lower eyelids and can be performed in two ways:
- Internal approach: When there is no need to remove skin, an incision is made inside the eyelid to extract the fat that causes under-eye bags. This technique leaves no visible scar and is more common in patients under 45 years old.
- External approach: A small incision is made just below the eyelashes to remove excess fat and skin. The procedure is completed with a fine suture, which is removed after 5 to 7 days.
Sometimes, blepharoplasty can be performed simultaneously with a facelift to achieve enhanced results.
Eyelid rejuvenation can also be carried out non-invasively through a so-called non-surgical blepharoplasty, which uses fractional CO₂ laser to gradually and naturally reduce eyelid laxity.
Who is this surgery for?
Blepharoplasty is recommended for individuals who have:
- Drooping upper or lower eyelids;
- Sagging upper or lower eyelids;
- Fat deposits that create a swollen appearance around the eyes;
- Excess skin and fine wrinkles on the lower eyelids;
- Excess skin on the upper eyelids (which may partially obstruct peripheral vision);
Expected Results
The main expected results of blepharoplasty include:
- A more youthful appearance;
- A rejuvenated facial look;
- A less tired expression;
- Improved vision (in cases where excess skin previously impaired sight).
Blepharoplasty Post-Surgery and Recovery
The postoperative period is usually not painful.
Immediately after the procedure, patients may experience blurred vision and light sensitivity.
Once the surgery is completed, the patient should rest for at least one hour and apply cold compresses to the area.
It is advisable to keep the head elevated, avoid physical exertion, and apply cold compresses 6–8 times a day to help reduce eyelid swelling and clean any secretions. An antibiotic ointment and an eye lubricant are usually prescribed.
Five to seven days after the procedure, the sutures are removed, and a healing cream is applied to the incision area. At this point, makeup can be used to conceal any bruising on the lower eyelids if desired. The dark coloration typically fades about 10 days after surgery.
Most patients can return to work between the third and fifth postoperative day.
From the first day up to two months after surgery, it is recommended to wear large sunglasses that also protect the sides of the surgical area.
What is the scar like after Blepharoplasty?
Scars are an inevitable outcome of any surgical procedure. However, the plastic surgeon will make every effort to ensure that the final scar is as discreet as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of anesthesia is used?
The surgery can be performed under general or local anesthesia.
Currently, most procedures are done with local anesthesia, which patients generally tolerate very well.
How long does blepharoplasty surgery take?
The surgery lasts between 1 and 2 hours, depending on whether only the upper eyelids or both upper and lower eyelids are treated.
Is hospitalization required?
Blepharoplasty is always performed on an outpatient basis, so the patient is discharged the same day.
How long is the recovery period?
Recovery after blepharoplasty is usually quite fast, taking about one week. However, patients prone to bruising may experience periorbital hematomas (commonly known as “black eyes”) for approximately 10 days, which can be easily concealed with makeup if desired.
Is the postoperative period painful?
The postoperative period is generally not painful.
Is eyelid surgery dangerous? What are the risks?
As with any surgical procedure, blepharoplasty carries some risks, including:
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia;
- Infection;
- Bleeding at the incision sites.
What are the possible side effects of blepharoplasty?
Each patient’s recovery experience may vary, but the most common side effects are mild and not a cause for concern. These may include bruising, swelling, scarring, and mild pain.
As healing progresses, these effects typically subside.
Although very rare, some patients may experience:
- Temporary numbness of the eyelids;
- Temporary blurred vision;
- Eyelid discomfort or pain;
- Difficulty closing the eyes;
- Excessive tearing.
Are there any contraindications?
Before undergoing surgery, the doctor will review your medical history, answer all questions about the procedure, and ensure that you are an appropriate candidate for blepharoplasty.
What is the recommended age for blepharoplasty? Is there a minimum age?
There is no strict minimum or maximum age for blepharoplasty, and the procedure can be repeated later in life if needed.
However, excess eyelid skin is often related to the natural aging process, which typically begins around age 30. Therefore, it is uncommon to undergo this surgery before age 35, except in congenital cases.
Factors such as sun exposure without protection, smoking, poor sleep quality, dehydration, and genetics can affect skin elasticity differently from person to person. Although the surgery is most common among middle-aged and older adults, the exact age varies.
Plastic Surgeon
[Medical License #53318]
Dr. Francisco Martins de Carvalho is a specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery. He completed his degree in Medicine at the School of Medicine of the University of Oporto and the Internship in Specific Training in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery took place at Hospital de São José (Lisbon) and Hospital de São João (Oporto).
Dr. Francisco Martins de Carvalho performed several internships, namely on Oncology Surgery of the Head and Neck at the Portuguese Institute of Oncology – Oporto and a fellowship of Hand Surgery, organized by the Portuguese Society of Hand Surgery. He also performed international internships in Aesthetic Surgery, Breast Reconstruction and Lymphedema at the Clinic Planas – Barcelona, at the University Hospital of Brussels and at the Villa Sant’Apollonia Clinic – Bergamo, having contacted with references in Plastic Surgery such as Dr. Jaume Masià, Dr. Moustapha Hamdi and Dr. Enrico Robotti.
Currently, he is also a plastic surgeon at the Hospital de São João – Oporto, and a Invited Lecturer at the School of Medicine of the University of Oporto.
In the field of cosmetic surgery, he has a special interest in facial cosmetic surgery, breast cosmetic surgery, body contouring surgery and vaginal cosmetic surgery.
What is the Price of Blepharoplasty?
The price of blepharoplasty varies depending on several factors, so a personalised patient assessment is required. Book a consultation to receive a quote and have all your questions answered.
Financing options: At Living Clinic, we want to ensure that all patients have access to the treatment they desire. That is why we provide financing options (interest-free financing for up to 12 months), allowing you to undergo your surgery in a more affordable way, without compromising the quality of the procedure and care.
Plastic Surgery Testimonials
“Dr. Francisco Martins De Carvalho doesn’t forget the smallest detail. He seeks perfection and finds it. A unique and sublime talent. I woke up with the body of a teenager (I’m 41). Thank you for making me smile.”
“Very attentive doctor, very helpful and friendly receptionist. Welcoming and pleasant environment.”
“I had a gynocomastia surgery about two weeks ago, performed by Dr. Carvalho. The surgery went exactly as he outlined during the consultation. The process was very smooth and painless. Even though it’s only been two weeks, it feels like I never had surgery, and the result is truly flawless. Dr. Carvalho provided very detailed […]
“One of the best surgeons, I’m so grateful for the excellent work he did with me! A perfectionist!! I couldn’t be happier with the results! Thank you, Dr. Francisco Carvalho!”
“Dr. Francisco Carvalho is undoubtedly the best plastic surgeon with a very promising future ahead. His dedication, responsibility, professionalism, concern for patients, sensitivity, and humility are second to none. I highly recommend him. Thank you, Dr. Francisco, and the entire team for everything, but especially Dr. Francisco Carvalho. I recommend this plastic surgeon to anyone […]
LOCATION
Where to have Blepharoplasty in Porto?
Have your Blepharoplasty at Living Clinic with maximum safety and natural results! We are located at Av. da Boavista 117 6th floor, Room 607, 4050-115 Porto, Portugal.
Schedule a consultation with the plastic surgeon to hear his recommendation for your specific case and clarify all your questions.
