Blepharoplasty

What is a blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a procedure designed to address excess upper eyelid skin, puffiness around the eyes, and changes in the lower eyelids that can create a tired or heavy appearance. In some patients, upper eyelid skin can also affect comfort, makeup application, or the visual field.

Dr Katie-Beth Webster offers blepharoplasty consultations in Melbourne for patients seeking a careful assessment of the eyelids and surrounding facial structures. The aim is to achieve a natural, refreshed result that remains in balance with the rest of the face.

Upper Blepharoplasty

Upper blepharoplasty is designed to remove upper eyelid skin and, in some cases, a conservative amount of underlying fat or muscle. The incision is usually placed in the natural upper eyelid crease so that the scar is generally well concealed once healed.

The goal is not to make the eyelids look hollow or over-done. A good result should look natural, lighter, and more open while preserving normal eyelid character.

Lower Blepharoplasty

Lower blepharoplasty is used more selectively and may involve treatment of lower eyelid fat, skin, or both. The most appropriate approach depends on whether the main issue is puffiness, skin laxity, hollowing, or a combination of factors. In select cases a orbital septal tightening or reset needs to be performed to rejuvenate the area.

Lower eyelid surgery requires careful planning because the lower lid is a delicate structure and overtightening or over-resection can create an unnatural appearance. For that reason, a conservative and anatomically appropriate approach is important.

Frequently Asked Questions

Patients may consider blepharoplasty if they are concerned by:
- heavy or hooded upper eyelids
- excess upper eyelid skin
- under-eye bags or puffiness
- a tired or aged appearance around the eyes
- difficulty applying eye makeup due to upper lid skin redundancy
- asymmetry of the eyelids
- changes around the eyes that do not improve with non-surgical treatments
During consultation, Dr Webster assesses whether blepharoplasty is appropriate, and whether the eyelids alone are the main issue or whether brow position, forehead descent, skin quality, or midface changes are also contributing.
A blepharoplasty consultation involves a detailed assessment of the upper and lower eyelids, the brow, the position of the lashes, skin excess, fat prominence, symmetry, and the relationship of the eyelids to the rest of the face.
Important parts of assessment may include:
- your goals and concerns
- previous eyelid or facial procedures both surgical and non surgical
- history of dry eyes or irritation
- contact lens use
- general eye health assessment
- general medical history
- medications and smoking status
- skin quality and healing factors
In some cases, upper eyelid concerns are partly related to brow descent rather than the eyelid alone. For this reason, treatment planning should always be individualised.
In some patients, eyelid surgery may be considered alongside other facial procedures, depending on anatomy and overall treatment goals.

Recovery varies between patients, but bruising and swelling around the eyes are expected in the early postoperative period. The eyelids can feel tight or swollen initially, and the area may appear more dramatic before it settles.
Most patients expect:
- swelling and bruising in the first one to two weeks
- temporary tightness or mild irritation
- gradual improvement over the following weeks
- scar maturation over a longer period
Final refinement takes time, and the tissues continue to settle after the early recovery phase.Most patients should expect:
- swelling and bruising in the first one to two weeks
- temporary tightness or firmness
- numbness or altered sensation in some cases
- gradual improvement over the following weeks
- scar maturation and tissue settling over a longer period
Final refinement takes time, and the face continues to settle after the early recovery phase.
As with any procedure, blepharoplasty has risks and limitations. These vary depending on whether upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or combined eyelid surgery is being considered.
Risks and considerations discussed during consultation may include:
- bruising and swelling
- scarring
- asymmetry
- under-correction or over-correction
- dry eye symptoms or irritation
- changes in lower lid position
- incomplete improvement in fine wrinkles or skin quality
- need for further treatment in selected cases
A consultation is important to determine whether surgery is appropriate and what result can realistically be achieved.
Timing of Blepharoplasty is dependent on the issues needing to be addressed. hooded upper lids, dark circles or puffy lower lids can occur at any age whereas fine lines, weakening of the orbital septum and loss of peripheral vision from skin excess are more likely to be changes attributed to ageing.
The aim is usually to refresh the eyelid area while preserving a natural appearance. Treatment planning is based on your anatomy and goals.