Blepharoplasty Turkey (Eyelid Surgery)

What Is Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)?

Blepharoplasty refers to surgical procedures performed to improve the appearance and function of the upper and lower eyelids. It is one of the most commonly performed operations in oculoplastic surgery, aiming to remove excess skin, tighten weakened muscles, and reposition or reduce fat pockets around the eyes.

These changes help restore a more youthful, refreshed, and natural look, while also addressing functional problems such as impaired vision caused by heavy or drooping eyelids. Upper and lower eyelid surgery can be performed separately or together, depending on the patient's aesthetic goals and medical needs.

In Which Cases Is Blepharoplasty Performed?

Excess skin on the upper eyelid, weakness in the underlying muscle and connective tissues, protrusion or loss of fat tissue, sagging of the lacrimal gland; sagging caused by laxity in the lower eyelid, fat bulging, excess skin, hollow areas between the eyelid and cheek, and weakness of the lower eyelid ligaments can all be corrected with blepharoplasty.

The important point here is to determine, through a detailed examination, which of the above-mentioned procedures are necessary and to carefully plan the most suitable surgery for the patient.

How Is Eyelid Aesthetic Surgery (Blepharoplasty) Performed?

There are many different techniques used in eyelid aesthetic surgery. A thorough eye and oculoplastic examination, as well as an evaluation of eyelid function, must be performed first.

An experienced surgeon, skilled in various techniques, will identify and apply the most appropriate method for the patient based on the examination results.

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in Turkey

Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) can be performed under local anesthesia, or depending on the preference of the patient and the surgeon, under sedation (a sleep-like state induced by intravenous medication) or general anesthesia.

After precise measurements and markings are carefully completed on the operating table, local anesthesia injections are administered to numb the surgical area and prevent bleeding. During this process, sedation is often used to ensure the patient does not feel the injections.

Blepharoplasty incisions can be made with a scalpel, radiofrequency, electrocautery, or laser, depending on preference. Following the removal or repositioning of excess tissues and fat, and the tightening and repositioning of sagging tissues, the incisions are closed, marking the end of the surgery.

Upper Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in Turkey

Upper eyelid surgery (Blepharoplasty) is often underestimated and perceived as a simple skin removal and stitching procedure. However, upper eyelid aesthetic surgery involves many fine details, from the planning stage to the surgical technique.

The patient’s condition must be thoroughly evaluated before surgery. It should be determined whether only the skin or both the skin and underlying tissue need to be removed; if subcutaneous tissue is to be removed, which part and how much should be taken; whether there are fat protrusions or hollow areas; whether there is sagging of the lacrimal gland; whether true eyelid drooping (ptosis) is present; whether eyebrow ptosis requires correction; and whether there are any surface or eyelid margin disorders affecting the eyes.

After preparing a detailed surgical plan, the surgeon carefully marks the level of the hidden incision and the eyelid crease on the operating table, and precisely measures the excess skin. Negligence at this stage can lead to significant problems, such as visible scars or incomplete eyelid closure due to excessive skin removal. The patient is then sedated, and local anesthesia is applied. Following sterile preparation and draping, the planned tissue removal is performed using the cutting instrument of the surgeon’s choice. At this stage, the surgeon’s experience plays a critical role in achieving the desired aesthetic outcome. Failure to remove necessary sagging tissues, or unnecessary removal of structures, may create the need for revision surgery.

When necessary, eyebrow drooping, eyelid ptosis, and lacrimal gland sagging can also be corrected simultaneously during upper blepharoplasty surgery. Many patients fail to achieve satisfactory results when these additional corrections are overlooked.

At the end of the blepharoplasty, the planned incisions, hidden within a natural crease, are closed with fine aesthetic sutures. The eyes do not need to be patched or covered with bandages.

Lower Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in Turkey

Upper eyelid surgery (Blepharoplasty) is one of the most frequently performed and experience-intensive surgeries in oculoplastic surgery. The lower eyelid is a complex structure that connects with the cheek, and errors during surgery can lead to significant issues with the eye. Therefore, patients seeking this surgery should look for a surgeon with considerable expertise in this area.

Lower eyelid aesthetic surgeries are typically requested due to sagging, bags, dark circles, and a tired appearance around the eyes. Before the surgery, a detailed assessment should be made to determine the source of the bags, any laxity in the structures that stabilize the lower eyelid, the eyelid-eye relationship, any discomfort in the eyelash line, and the condition of the lacrimal drainage system that starts from the inner corner of the lower eyelid.

After the evaluation, the most suitable technique is planned for the patient, and the details are shared with the patient.

The removal or repositioning of fat bags that cause distortion in the lower eyelid is preferably done through an incision inside the eyelid (from the pink tissue called the conjunctiva). In some suitable patients, an incision made just below the eyelash line can also yield good results, but careful attention must be paid to important details.

According to the pre-surgical plan, the surgeon decides which of the three adjacent fat tissues in each eyelid will be addressed and how much fat will be repositioned during the surgery. In some patients, shaping without any fat removal and transferring the fat into the hollows between the eyelid and cheek can permanently eliminate the bags and circles.

Excess skin is the mildest problem in lower eyelid aesthetics, and the skin should be removed as minimally as possible or not touched at all. Lower eyelid aesthetic surgery is sometimes mistakenly thought to be just about skin removal, and unnecessary skin removal can result in the main problem not being addressed, as well as functional and aesthetic problems such as the lower eyelid turning outward or sagging, causing significant damage to the eye surface.

The laxity of the eyelid ligaments should definitely be identified beforehand, and necessary freeing and tightening procedures should be performed at the final stage of the surgery. Often, lifting of the cheek fat tissue or mid-face lift is necessary, and these procedures ensure perfect harmony in the eyelid-cheek transition, preventing the eyelid from moving away from the eye, curling outward, or sagging down after surgery.

With the surgeon's experience, the outer corner of the eyelid is positioned slightly higher than planned for the long term, ensuring that it settles into the ideal position two weeks after the surgery. There are many alternative methods for this procedure. If the eyelid has become elongated due to aging, shortening can be performed, and in patients who do not have this issue, the outer corner can be lifted and supported with special techniques without any incision.

Lower blepharoplasty surgery is typically performed without an external skin incision and using hidden incisions, so there will be no visible scars. There is no need for the eyes to be closed or bandaged after surgery.

Upper vs. Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty: What’s the Difference?

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is primarily aimed at removing redundant skin and, when necessary, adjusting the preaponeurotic fat pads to restore a natural and well-defined eyelid crease. This procedure not only enhances the aesthetic appearance by creating a more youthful and refreshed look but can also improve visual function in patients with dermatochalasis, a condition where excess upper eyelid skin obstructs the peripheral vision.

Surgeons may also tighten the underlying muscle (levator aponeurosis) or reposition fat for optimal contour, depending on the patient’s anatomy. The incision is usually placed within the natural eyelid crease, making the scar nearly invisible over time.

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty, on the other hand, primarily targets under-eye bags, puffiness, and skin laxity. The approach can be either transconjunctival (through the inner eyelid, leaving no visible scar) or transcutaneous (through a skin incision just below the lash line).

During the procedure, orbital fat may be removed, repositioned, or sculpted to smooth the tear-trough area and restore a natural contour. In addition, excess skin can be tightened, and in some cases, canthal support procedures (such as lateral canthopexy) are added to prevent postoperative eyelid malposition. Lower eyelid surgery is generally considered more technically demanding than upper blepharoplasty due to the delicate anatomy and higher risk of complications such as ectropion or scleral show if not performed carefully.

In summary, while upper blepharoplasty primarily addresses aesthetic and functional concerns related to drooping skin and fat above the eyelid, lower blepharoplasty focuses on correcting puffiness, fat herniation, and sagging below the eyelid, often requiring more complex surgical techniques to maintain natural eyelid function and appearance.

Both procedures are frequently combined for a comprehensive periorbital rejuvenation, but surgical planning must be individualized based on anatomy, age, and patient goals.

Postoperative Care After Blepharoplasty

After blepharoplasty, patients should follow specific postoperative care recommendations to support healing and minimize complications. Mild swelling and bruising are expected during the first few days; therefore, applying cold compresses and keeping the head elevated significantly reduces edema.

Keeping the incision area clean and dry lowers the risk of infection, while avoiding eye rubbing, strenuous activities, and excessive sun exposure helps protect the healing tissues. Prescribed eye drops and ointments should be used regularly, and follow-up visits should not be skipped.

• Apply cold compresses regularly during the first 48 hours.
• Keep your head elevated while sleeping (using two pillows is recommended).
• Avoid heavy exercise and activities that require bending for at least one week.
• Do not rub or pull on the eyelids.
• Wear dark sunglasses when going outdoors to protect the eyes from sunlight.
• Use all prescribed drops, ointments, and medications as directed.
• Avoid makeup for 7–10 days.
• Keep the incision area clean and dry; avoid swimming pools and the sea.
• Limit prolonged screen use and reading during the first few days.
• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.

If you want, I can also prepare separate care instructions for upper and lower blepharoplasty.

However, to provide a general idea, blepharoplasty prices in Turkey in 2026 typically range between €1,500 and €5,000, depending on whether the operation includes only upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or a combined approach, as well as the surgeon’s expertise, the hospital setting, and anesthesia type.

Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty Cost in Turkey 2026

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty focuses on removing excess skin and tightening the underlying tissues to create a more open, refreshed, and youthful look. It is generally a short procedure, often completed in 30–45 minutes, and is performed under local or, when preferred, light sedation.

The cost of upper eyelid surgery varies depending on the degree of skin laxity, the need for fat adjustment, the surgeon’s expertise, and the clinical setting.

In Turkey, upper eyelid blepharoplasty cost in 2026 typically range between €1.000 and €2.000. A precise cost can only be determined after an in-person evaluation, during which the surgeon assesses eyelid anatomy, symmetry, and overall facial harmony.

Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty Cost in Turkey 2026

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty targets under-eye bags, puffiness, and skin laxity to create a smoother, less tired appearance. The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours and may include fat repositioning or tightening of the lower lid structures. In Turkey, lower eyelid blepharoplasty costs in 2026 generally range from €1.200 to €2.700, depending on the technique used, anesthesia, and the surgeon’s expertise. A precise price can be given after a detailed in-person evaluation.

What Is the Recovery Process Like After Blepharoplasty?

After Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) an antibiotic ointment and ice are applied to the surgical area, and the patient is monitored in their room for 2-3 hours. There is no need to close or bandage the eyes. If no problems are observed, the patient is discharged on the same day, and intermittent ice application is recommended for 48-72 hours.

It is recommended to apply antibiotic eye ointment to the incision site in the morning and evening for up to one week. Swelling and bruising are normal and can last from 1-2 days to 1-2 weeks, depending on the patient's constitution and the type of surgery. The speed and smoothness of recovery also depend on the rest and activity restrictions in the first 2-3 days, so it is advised to avoid bending forward, lifting weights, or taking long walks during the first few days.

For the first 4-5 days, it is appropriate for the incision sites not to come into contact with water. Stitches are removed on the 6th or 7th day, and no special treatment is required afterwards. After 4-6 weeks, the incision will become redder and more tense, after which a rapid remodeling phase begins. The already indistinct scars will disappear within a few weeks.

It is recommended to avoid swimming in the sea or pool and heavy sports for the first 2 weeks. If heavy activities are gradually increased starting from the 10th day, the recovery will be better. Under normal circumstances, patients can return to desk jobs after the 3rd day and to more active jobs after the first week.

Will There Be Scarring After Blepharoplasty?

There are many techniques for Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty). A skilled surgeon will perform the surgery with minimal or hidden incisions, so the likelihood of scarring is either non-existent or very minimal.

However, some factors, such as genetic skin types, certain systemic diseases, medications used, excessive UV exposure, smoking, and trauma to the incision site, can affect the formation of scars, so these factors should be carefully evaluated before and after surgery.

At What Age Can Blepharoplasty Be Done?

There is no specific age limit for blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), but it is not suitable to perform the surgery before the age of 18-20, as facial development and mental maturity are not yet complete.

Since surgery is usually performed due to genetic issues, even individuals in their twenties can undergo surgery if their eyelids cause problems, especially regarding vision or eye health. The ideal age for eyelid aesthetic surgery is when the patient finds the problem bothersome.

Is Blepharoplasty Painful?

According to oculoplastic surgery literature, blepharoplasty is generally associated with minimal discomfort because the procedure involves limited tissue dissection and long-acting local anesthetics; most patients describe postoperative sensations as mild tightness or pressure rather than true pain.

How Long Does Blepharoplasty Recovery Take?

Recovery timelines differ slightly between techniques: upper eyelid swelling and bruising usually resolve significantly within 5–7 days, while lower eyelid procedures—especially those involving fat repositioning or skin tightening—may require 10–14 days for the majority of edema to subside. Nonetheless, scientific studies indicate that complete healing and final contour refinement for both upper and lower blepharoplasty continue for 3–6 months, corresponding to the natural phases of periocular tissue remodeling.

Is Non-Surgical Eyelid Aesthetic Possible?

For lighter eyelid aesthetic problems that do not require surgery, in patients who are not yet willing to undergo surgery, or in patients who have already had surgeries and are not suitable for further surgeries due to age and anatomy, there are non-surgical eyelid treatments available. After evaluating the patient's condition, it can be decided which type of treatment would be appropriate, such as botulinum toxin, fillers, mesotherapy, and device-based procedures.

With a precise botulinum toxin application, it is possible to smooth lines, shape the eyebrows, and lift the eyelids slightly. It is also beneficial for the faster healing of surgical incisions and for supporting eyebrow lift surgeries.

Filler applications around the eyes offer many alternatives in Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty). These include eyebrow lifting, filling the sunken areas on the upper eyelid, and filling the hollows under the eyes. In cases where surgery is not needed for lower eyelid puffiness, fillers made with the correct technique and material can be very effective in eliminating dark circles and tired-looking eyes.

For upper eyelids that have sunken areas due to unnecessary fat removal during surgery, or for deep upper eyelids due to trauma or hereditary reasons, filler applications around the eyes can provide an effective solution.

Mesotherapy applications targeting dark color changes, pigmentation, and wrinkles around the eyes are effective for carefully selected patients and can provide a non-surgical option for eyelid aesthetics. Often, these procedures can be combined with surgery.

Device-based applications in eyelid aesthetics are also methods that can be used for suitable patients. Among these applications, plasma treatments, which are often mistakenly marketed as laser treatments, do not have an effective eyelid aesthetic or lid-lifting ability for everyone and under all conditions, as advertised. However, for carefully selected patients, they can provide skin tightening and wrinkle reduction effects for 1-2 years.

They are not effective for puffiness or true eyelid ptosis (drooping). These treatments are valuable for those who are afraid of surgery or have conditions that do not necessarily require surgery. Another new technology in this field is bipolar radiofrequency devices, which can be useful for skin, subcutaneous tissue, and partial fat tightening in patients who do not have severe puffiness and do not require surgery.

Both of these devices available at our clinic can provide promising results with correct patient selection. Although these procedures may require local or topical anesthesia and may have a swelling period similar to surgery, they have advantages over surgery in terms of not involving skin incisions, sutures, or bruising.