Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery, is a procedure that may address concerns related to the upper and lower eyelids.
Whether you’re seeking to improve vision impaired by excess upper eyelid skin or reduce puffiness and bags under the eyes, blepharoplasty in Sydney offers tailored solutions.
At ICCM, our experienced team aims to achieve natural-looking outcomes while ensuring your comfort throughout the process.
There are three different types of blepharoplasty - double eyelid surgery, upper blepharoplasty and lower blepharoplasty.
This surgery may address issues like drooping eyelids, bags under the eyes, and puffiness. In some cases, upper eyelid surgery may also improve vision by eliminating sagging skin that obstructs sight.
Key aspects of the procedure include:
Removal of excess skin and fat to potentially restore natural contours.
Adjustments to natural skin folds for a potentially enhanced appearance.
Typically performed under local anaesthesia with light sedation.
Completion time of approximately one hour.
Pre-operative instructions include avoiding smoking, refraining from certain medications, and arranging post-surgery support. These steps promote optimal healing and results.
A cosmetic procedure designed to address concerns related to excess upper eyelid tissue. The surgery carefully removes excess skin and fat from the eyelids to reveal more of the eye.
Targets puffiness, dark circles, and sagging skin under the eyes, often redistributing fat to smooth the area.
Potential Benefits of Blepharoplasty
Undergoing blepharoplasty offers several benefits, including:
Removing excess skin and fat that obscures the natural contour of the eyelids.
Reducing puffiness and improving the appearance of dark circles under the eyes.
Concealing scars within natural eyelid folds or the lash line for discreet results.
Enhancing the overall facial aesthetic for a more youthful appearance.
In some cases, improving vision by addressing drooping upper eyelids.
Recovery typically takes 1–2 weeks, with minimal downtime.
Blepharoplasty is often combined with other procedures like brow lifts or lip lifts. Discuss your goals with our team to determine the best treatment plan.
The blepharoplasty procedure at ICCM consists of five steps from anaesthesia administration to recovery.
The Blepharoplasty Procedure at ICCM
Here’s an overview of the blepharoplasty surgery procedure:
Anaesthesia Administration
Local anaesthesia with light sedation is provided to ensure your comfort throughout the surgery.
Incision Placement
For upper eyelid surgery, incisions are made along natural folds to hide scars.
For lower eyelid surgery, incisions are placed just below the lash line or inside the lower eyelid.
Tissue Removal and Adjustment
Excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle are removed or repositioned.
For lower eyelid surgery, fat may be redistributed to smooth hollow areas.
Closure of Incisions
Fine sutures are used to close incisions, minimising visible scarring.
Recovery Instructions
You will receive detailed post-operative instructions to promote healing, such as:
Using cold compresses to reduce swelling.
Keeping the area clean and avoiding makeup until fully healed.
Avoiding strenuous activities for at least two weeks.
How Much Does Blepharoplasty Cost in Sydney?
The cost of blepharoplasty in Sydney varies depending on the type of procedure and individual requirements. At ICCM, we offer transparent pricing:
Upper Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Reduction Surgery): Starting from $4,750.
Lower Blepharoplasty: Starting from $4,750.
Pricing may vary based on your specific needs and goals, which will be assessed during your consultation. We ensure all patients receive a tailored treatment plan that aligns with their expectations.
Are there Risks with Blepharoplasty?
While blepharoplasty is generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential risks, which include:
Infection and minor bleeding.
Temporary dry eyes or irritation.
Difficulty closing your eyes fully during the healing process.
Minor scarring, typically hidden in natural folds.
Changes in skin sensation.
Rarely, the need for revision surgery.
It is important to discuss these risks thoroughly during your consultation to ensure you feel informed and confident about the procedure.
Why Choose Us?
Experience: Dr. Tony has over 15 years of experience in cosmetic surgery and over 20 years in non-surgical injectable treatments.
Caring Attitude: Our patients’ safety and well-being are always our foremost priority.
Pricing: Reasonable, realistic pricing in the face of a competitive and rapidly evolving market.
Convenience: Ideally located in central Sydney on Macquarie Street (famous as Sydney’s leading “specialist street”), close to transport and parking.
Dr Tony Prochazka
MBBS, FFMACCS / Cosmetic Doctor
Dr Tony Prochazka has over 20 years of experience with such procedures as Gynaecomastia, Blepharoplasty, Thread Lift, Breast Augmentation, Liposculpture, etc. Dr Tony was the Inaugural Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery, and a former vice–president of the Cosmetic Physicians Society of Australasia.
He is a regular presenter and teacher at international conferences, with invitations to meetings in Australia, China, New Zealand and South America.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any more questions about cosmetic procedures in Sydney or any of our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us today. In the meantime, you can find our FAQs below that may provide the additional information you’re looking for.
How long does the recovery process take?
Most patients recover within 1–2 weeks though it varies between individuals. Swelling and bruising around the eyes gradually subside, while fine sutures are typically removed after 5–7 days. It’s essential to avoid strenuous activities to prevent strain on the incisions and ensure minimal visible scars.
Can blepharoplasty be combined with other procedures?
Yes, blepharoplasty is often combined with complementary procedures like a brow lift or facelift to potentially achieve a more youthful and balanced appearance. For example, a brow lift may address sagging eyebrows, enhancing the effects of an eyelid lift. Combining surgeries may also reduce overall recovery time. Discuss which combination best suits your goals during your consultation.
Is blepharoplasty covered by Medicare?
Medicare may cover upper blepharoplasty if excess eyelid skin is impairing your vision. However, procedures like lower eyelid blepharoplasty, which address cosmetic concerns such as excess fat or loose skin under the eyes, are usually not covered. During your consultation, the team can help determine if you qualify for Medicare support.
What should I avoid before surgery?
Before surgery, avoid smoking, alcohol, and medications that thin the blood, such as aspirin, for at least two weeks. Smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of visible scars. Avoid excessive sun exposure as it can irritate the skin and delay recovery. You will be provided detailed instructions tailored to your specific needs.
Are the results of blepharoplasty permanent?
Results vary between individuals but blepharoplasty results may last for many years, particularly when addressing excess eyelid skin or excess fat removal. While the ageing process continues, the improvements achieved—such as reduced loose skin and more defined eyelid contours—can be long-lasting. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and proper skincare may also help maintain your refreshed look for years to come.
The information on the website is for general guidance only and cannot be used as a basis to make a surgical decision, an initial consultation with our doctor is required to help patients make an informed decision before proceeding with any surgical procedure. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek the opinion of an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Risks and complications of cosmetic surgery
These risks, while concerning, are generally rare and can be mitigated through careful planning, following pre- and post-operative care instructions, and working with qualified and experienced medical practitioners, like those at ICCM. But it can still be beneficial to understand potential risks that can occur, so you can discuss these risks before proceeding with any treatment.
Scarring
Scarring is a common risk with any surgery that involves making incisions in the skin. While practitioners take care to place incisions in discreet areas and close them carefully to minimise scars, the body’s healing process varies from person to person. Some individuals may develop thicker, more noticeable scars, known as hypertrophic scars or keloids, which can be difficult to treat and may require additional procedures.
Bruising and Swelling
Bruising and swelling are common side effects of surgery as the body responds to tissue trauma. While these symptoms typically subside within a few weeks, severe bruising can cause discomfort and prolong recovery. In some cases, significant swelling might indicate underlying issues such as fluid accumulation or infection, requiring further medical attention.
Bleeding
Bleeding during surgery is controlled by the surgical team, but there is always a risk of excessive bleeding either during the procedure or postoperatively. This can lead to complications like hematomas, where blood pools under the skin, potentially requiring surgical drainage. Severe bleeding can also lead to shock, which is a medical emergency.
Infection
Infection is a risk whenever the skin is broken, as it provides a pathway for bacteria to enter the body. Surgical sites are particularly vulnerable, especially if the wound care instructions are not followed closely. Infections can range from minor skin infections to more serious, deep-tissue infections that might require antibiotics, drainage, or even additional surgery to resolve.
Pain
Pain is an expected part of recovery from any surgery, but its intensity and duration can vary. While most pain can be managed with prescribed medications, some patients may experience prolonged or severe pain, which could indicate complications such as nerve damage or infection. Chronic pain is a less common, but more serious, concern that might persist long after the typical recovery period.
Undesirable Cosmetic Outcome
An undesirable cosmetic outcome occurs when the results of the surgery do not meet the patient’s expectations, or the aesthetic goals outlined before the procedure. This could be due to asymmetry, unnatural appearance, or a failure to achieve the desired contour or shape. In some cases, additional procedures, known as revision surgeries, may be needed to correct these issues.
Nerve Damage
Nerve damage is a risk in many cosmetic procedures, especially those that involve cutting near nerves. This can lead to numbness, tingling, or even loss of sensation in the affected area. While some nerve damage may be temporary and improve over time, permanent nerve injury can result in lasting changes in sensation or function.
Seroma
A seroma is a pocket of clear fluid that can build up under the skin after surgery. It often occurs when the surgical area is not fully drained, leading to swelling and discomfort. Seromas are usually treated by draining the fluid with a needle, but if left untreated, they can increase the risk of infection or contribute to poor wound healing.
Anaesthetic Complications
Anaesthetic complications can arise from both general and local anaesthesia. These risks include allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and, in rare cases, more severe reactions such as malignant hyperthermia. Patients with pre-existing health conditions or those undergoing lengthy procedures are at a higher risk. Complications can range from temporary disorientation or nausea to more serious outcomes like heart attack or stroke.
Death
Death is the most severe and rare risk associated with cosmetic surgery. It can result from complications related to anaesthesia, excessive bleeding, severe infection, or an adverse reaction during the procedure. While the overall risk is low, it underscores the importance of a thorough preoperative assessment and choosing an experienced, qualified medical practitioner to minimise risks.
The information on the website is for general guidance only and cannot be used as a basis to make a surgical decision, an initial consultation with our doctor is required to help patients make an informed decision before proceeding with any surgical procedure. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek the opinion of an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
