Upper Eyelid Surgery
What is upper eyelid surgery?
Upper eyelid surgery, also known as an upper eyelid lift or blepharoplasty, is a procedure that involves removing excess skin, and in some cases fat, from the upper eyelid area. This procedure may be performed to address functional problems such as hooding that interferes with vision, or for cosmetic reasons to change the appearance of the eyelids. Dr Michael Xu commonly uses internal (tarsal) fixation, a technique designed to support the upper eyelid structure.
What causes upper eyelid skin hooding?
The skin of the upper eyelid is thin and can lose elasticity with age. This may lead to folding or sagging of the eyelid. In some situations, excessive skin can extend over the eyelashes, which may affect vision.
Other reasons upper eyelid surgery may be considered
- Protruding fat around the upper eyelid, which can change the contour of the eyelid.
- Drooping of the upper eyelid, called ptosis, which may occur due to changes in the muscles that open the eyelid.
- Differences in eyelid creases that affect symmetry.
Upper eyelid surgery in people of Asian background, sometimes called “double eyelid surgery,” is a specialised procedure. While the general principles are similar, the design and technique are modified to account for differences in eyelid anatomy.
Suitability for upper eyelid surgery
Surgery may be considered if you have:
- Excess or folded upper eyelid skin
- Uneven eyelid creases
- Protruding eyelid fat
- Drooping eyelids
A consultation with Dr Xu is required to determine whether this procedure is appropriate for your situation.
Preparing for surgery
A formal consultation is required before surgery. During this appointment, Dr Xu will:
- Assess your eyelids and overall health
- Discuss possible options and expected outcomes
- Explain potential risks and complications
- Provide written information and post-operative care instructions
- Obtain preoperative photographs (with consent)
As per Medical Board of Australia guidelines, a minimum 7-day cooling-off period will be provided. A second consultation can be arranged to answer further questions before you make a decision.
How the procedure is performed
Upper eyelid surgery may be carried out under local or general anaesthesia. The approach will be discussed with you before the procedure. Excess skin and fat may be removed, and sutures are used to close the incision. In some cases, tarsal fixation is used to help support the eyelid structure. Photographic documentation may be taken (with consent) before and after the procedure.
Where the surgery is performed
- Under local anaesthesia: in a fully equipped procedure room
- Under general anaesthesia: in an accredited day surgery operating theatre
Recovery
Recovery experiences can vary. In general:
- Light activities may be resumed within a few days
- Stitches are usually removed about a week after surgery
- Bruising and swelling are common and typically improve over 1–2 weeks
- Discomfort is generally manageable with simple pain relief medication
- Detailed post-operative care instructions will be provided.
Risks and possible complications
All surgery carries risks. Risks of upper eyelid surgery may include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Scarring
- Dry eyes or irritation
- Difficulty closing the eyelids fully
- Asymmetry or changes in eyelid contour
These risks will be discussed in detail during your consultation.
Combining with other procedures
Upper eyelid surgery may sometimes be performed with other procedures such as lower eyelid surgery, brow lift, or facial procedures. The need for combined treatment depends on the underlying cause of your concerns and will be discussed during consultation.
Cost of upper eyelid surgery
Costs vary depending on factors such as your anatomy, the type of anaesthesia used, and whether additional procedures are performed. An exact cost estimate can only be provided after a consultation and assessment.