Plastic Surgery · Jaipur Hospital
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) in Jaipur
Heavy lids or eye bags that make you look tired? We offer a calm assessment, a clear plan and surgery only if you need it.
- Serving Jaipur since 1991 (35 years)
- NABH accredited
- 24×7 emergency & ICU
- Cashless: RGHS, MAA Yojana, CGHS + 32 insurers
- Operation time
- 1 to 2 hours
- Anaesthesia
- Local anaesthesia with sedation
- Recovery
- Socially presentable in 10 to 14 days, full healing in 4 to 6 weeks
- Price
- ₹60,000 to ₹1,50,000typical range in India; ask us for an estimate
Tired eyes, heavy lids
My eyelids feel heavy and I look tired
Extra skin and fat can collect around the eyes with age. The lids may feel heavy, the eyes may look tired, and some people find their side vision is partly blocked. You may also have a lump or patch on the lid that causes no pain.
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Heavy, hooded upper lids
Extra skin folds over the lid and can make you look tired or older than you feel.
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Bags under the eyes
Fat can push forward under the lower lid and create shadows or puffiness that make-up does not hide.
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Lashes rubbing the eye
Loose skin can turn the lashes inward so they scratch the eye and cause watering or irritation.
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Side vision feels reduced
Hanging skin can cover part of your upper side view and make driving or reading harder.
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A lump with no pain
Some people come with a lump or yellow patch on the lid that causes no pain and needs a check.
Extra skin and fat on the eyelids can block part of your side vision and make daily tasks harder.
Why Jaipur Hospital
You may be tired of people asking if you are sleepy, and worried about time away from work and what the surgery will cost.
Your care plan
Your first steps with us
- 1 Call us or visit the OPD for a first check.
- 2 Meet your plastic surgeon and discuss your reports.
- 3 Get a clear plan and a cost estimate before you decide.
- 4 Follow the recovery advice and attend follow-up visits.
How the operation is done
The operation usually takes 1 to 2 hours under local anaesthesia with sedation. Your surgeon makes a cut in the natural fold of the upper lid, or inside the lower lid, then removes or repositions extra skin, muscle and fat. Your surgeon will discuss which option suits you.
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Upper blepharoplasty
A cut in the natural eyelid crease removes hooded skin. Your surgeon will discuss whether this suits you.
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Lower blepharoplasty
Two approaches, one inside the lid and one below the lashes, treat bags under the eyes.
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Asian blepharoplasty
Creates a double eyelid fold, with an epicanthoplasty option if you want it.
Why patients trust us
- 1991 Serving Jaipur for 35 years
- NABH Accredited hospital
- 1 Plastic Surgery consultants
- 24×7 Emergency, ICU and ambulance
- 35 Cashless schemes and insurers
What research shows about this treatment
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16%
One review reports this share of people over 45 with sagging eyelids, and it is more frequent in males.
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26.2%
In one study of 17 patients, the upper visual field improved by this amount after surgery.
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2 weeks
Most people take about this long off work after eyelid surgery, depending on their job.
If it is left untreated
Heavy lids can block part of your side vision and make reading, driving or stairs harder. Loose lashes may turn inward and rub the eye surface. That rubbing can irritate the eye and lead to dryness and discomfort over time.
Life after treatment
Most people look less tired once the swelling settles. Bruising may take several weeks to fade, and the scar usually sits in the eyelid fold. Every person heals at their own pace.
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A lighter lid
Most people find the heavy feeling eases and their eyes look more open.
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Back to routine
Most people return to their usual work after about 2 weeks, depending on the job.
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Less self-conscious
Many people feel easier about photos and social occasions once the bruising fades.
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A scar in the fold
The scar usually hides in the natural eyelid fold and fades over a few months.
Meet the team
Your plastic surgery doctors
Explore our plastic surgery hospital in Jaipur: every treatment, the doctors and what to expect at your visit.
Frequently asked questions
Questions patients ask about blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)
What does blepharoplasty involve?
In short
Blepharoplasty at Jaipur Hospital removes excess skin, muscle and fat from the upper or lower eyelids. The operation takes one to two hours under local anaesthesia with sedation. You go home the same day after a few hours in the daycare unit. Stitches are usually removed within a week and most people look socially presentable in ten to fourteen days.
In detail
The surgeon marks the natural eyelid crease while you sit upright. For the upper lid an incision follows that crease so the scar stays hidden. Excess skin and, if needed, a strip of orbicularis muscle are removed. Herniated fat pads may be trimmed or repositioned.
For the lower lid the cut is either just below the lashes or inside the eyelid (transconjunctival). Fat is then removed or moved to smooth the tear trough. The wound is closed with fine nylon or polypropylene sutures and sterile strips support the lids.
A common belief
Many people think the operation requires a long hospital stay or general anaesthesia.
What actually happens
In fact it is a daycare procedure with local anaesthesia and sedation, and the scar sits in the natural fold so it is hardly visible once healed.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Plan for two weeks off work and arrange someone to drive you home and stay the first night. Use cold compresses every ten to fifteen minutes for the first day, then lubricating drops every four hours.
Sleep with your head raised on two to three pillows for two weeks. Avoid heavy lifting, eye makeup and contact lenses for ten to fourteen days.
Which tests and scans do I need before blepharoplasty?
In short
Before blepharoplasty at Jaipur Hospital you will have a complete eye examination. This includes visual field testing to map any loss from overhanging skin, corneal topography or tomography to check for astigmatism caused by fat pressure, Schirmer 1 and 2 tests plus tear film break-up time to measure tear production and stability, and intraocular pressure measurement by Goldmann applanation tonometry. Routine blood tests and a pre-anaesthesia check are also done.
In detail
Visual field testing documents the superior and temporal defect that justifies functional surgery. Corneal topography gives K1, K2 and astigmatism values; studies show these can change after fat removal. Schirmer 1 measures basal and reflex tears, Schirmer 2 measures only basal tears after anaesthetic drops.
Tear break-up time uses fluorescein to time how fast the tear film breaks. The ocular surface disease index questionnaire scores dry eye symptoms. Intraocular pressure is recorded because one study found a rise after skin-only upper blepharoplasty. Blood work checks haemoglobin, clotting and sugar levels. The anaesthetist reviews your medicines, especially blood thinners, which must stop a week before surgery.
A common belief
Some think only a vision chart is needed.
What actually happens
In fact the surgeon needs visual field maps, corneal topography numbers and tear film data to prove the surgery is medically justified and to plan the safest technique.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Bring any previous eye reports and a list of all medicines. Expect to spend about two hours in the ophthalmology clinic for the tests. The surgeon will explain the results and whether they support surgery.
How painful is blepharoplasty and the early recovery?
In short
Blepharoplasty at Jaipur Hospital is done under local anaesthesia with sedation, so you do not feel pain during the operation. After surgery, most people describe discomfort, tightness and soreness rather than severe pain. The surgical team will give you pain relief medicine to manage this.
In detail
Evidence shows that on the seventh day after surgery, patients rate pain from absent to mild. Swelling and bruising are usually the main sources of discomfort. Cold compresses and keeping the head elevated help reduce these symptoms. The ointment used during surgery may cause temporary blurry vision, which can feel unpleasant but settles quickly.
A common belief
It is a common mistake to expect severe pain.
What actually happens
In studies, patients rate pain as low by day seven. The main discomfort comes from swelling and bruising, which cold compresses and head elevation reduce. Blurry vision from the eye ointment is temporary.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Take the prescribed painkillers as directed. Use cold compresses for the first 24 hours and sleep with your head raised on two to three pillows for two weeks. Most people feel comfortable enough to return to usual routines within one to two weeks.
How long does recovery usually take after blepharoplasty?
In short
After blepharoplasty at Jaipur Hospital, you are usually socially presentable in 10 to 14 days. Full healing, including scar maturation and resolution of subtle swelling, takes 4 to 6 weeks. Most people return to desk work within a week or two, depending on their job.
In detail
Stitches are removed between 2 and 7 days. Bruising and swelling peak at 48 hours and fade over two to three weeks. Studies show eyelid swelling is worse in the morning and improves during the day.
Cheek and jawline swelling may take two to three weeks to settle. Dry eye symptoms can persist for a few weeks; lubricating drops help. Strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and swimming are avoided for at least two weeks. The scar in the natural crease feels tight for a few months but becomes almost invisible.
A common belief
Swelling is worst in the mornings for the first week.
What actually happens
Cheek swelling can linger two to three weeks. Dry eyes may need drops for a few weeks. The scar feels tight for months but hides in the crease. Heavy exercise and swimming wait two weeks.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Plan for 10 to 14 days off work if your job involves public contact. Use cold compresses for 24 hours, then lubricating drops and head elevation for two weeks. Avoid contact lenses for two weeks. Do not drive until pain medicine is stopped and vision is clear.
Are my expectations realistic for my anatomy and health for blepharoplasty?
In short
Whether your expectations are realistic for blepharoplasty depends on your eyelid anatomy, skin quality, and general health. At Jaipur Hospital, the surgeon examines your upper and lower lids, checks for dry eye, and assesses whether the changes you want can be achieved safely. The discussion covers what the surgery can and cannot do for your specific case.
In detail
Evidence shows blepharoplasty removes excess skin, muscle, and fat to improve hooded lids or bags, and it can widen the visual field when skin blocks peripheral vision. It does not stop ageing, remove all fine lines, or change the fundamental shape of your eye.
Studies report high patient satisfaction when goals are discussed honestly before surgery. Factors such as thin skin, prominent eyes, or previous eyelid surgery affect what is possible. The surgeon also reviews any medical conditions like thyroid eye disease or bleeding disorders that could alter the plan.
A common belief
Some patients expect the surgery to erase all wrinkles or completely change their eye shape.
What actually happens
Blepharoplasty improves hooding and bags, but it does not stop ageing or alter the bone structure around the eyes.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Bring photos of your younger self or examples you like to the consultation. The surgeon will explain what matches your anatomy and what does not. You will receive a clear summary of the expected outcome, recovery time, and any limitations.
How will appearance, function, and realistic expectations be discussed for blepharoplasty?
In short
At Jaipur Hospital, the consultation covers three areas: the appearance changes you want, any functional problems like visual field loss, and what the surgery can realistically achieve for your anatomy. The surgeon examines your eyelids, measures skin excess, checks tear film, and reviews your medical history before explaining the options.
In detail
Evidence shows upper blepharoplasty can improve superior visual field by about 26 percent when hooded skin blocks vision. It also reduces high-order aberrations and can improve contrast sensitivity. However, studies report inconsistent effects on astigmatism, intraocular pressure, and dry eye scores.
The surgeon explains these functional benefits and uncertainties. For appearance, the discussion includes crease height, symmetry, fat preservation versus removal, and whether a brow lift or canthopexy is needed.
No outcome is promised; the surgeon describes the range of results seen in studies and the factors that influence your personal result.
- Evidence shows upper blepharoplasty can improve superior visual field by about 26 percent when hooded skin blocks vision.
A common belief
Some clinics focus only on the cosmetic result.
What actually happens
A proper blepharoplasty consultation also measures visual fields, checks for dry eye, and discusses how fat removal might affect the corneal shape. That functional assessment protects your eyes.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
You will have time to ask questions and can bring a family member. A summary of the discussion is provided.
Why might my doctor recommend blepharoplasty?
In short
A doctor may recommend blepharoplasty at Jaipur Hospital when excess upper eyelid skin blocks your peripheral vision or when lower lid bags cause discomfort. It is also advised for medical conditions such as dermatochalasis, blepharochalasis, xanthelasma, eyelid tumours or trauma-related deformities. The surgery can improve visual field, reduce headache-related eye strain and restore a more alert appearance.
In detail
Redundant upper lid skin can hang over the lashes and cut out the upper and outer visual field. Studies show a measurable improvement in superior visual field after surgery. Heavy lids also force the forehead muscles to work harder, which can trigger tension headaches.
Lower lid fat prolapse may press on the cornea and change its shape, causing astigmatism. Removing or repositioning that fat reduces corneal distortion. Inflammatory conditions such as blepharochalasis create repeated swelling that stretches the skin; excision corrects the laxity. Tumours or large xanthelasmata need excision for both diagnosis and relief.
A common belief
People often think it is only for looks.
What actually happens
The evidence shows it also restores visual field, reduces headache from brow strain and can correct astigmatism caused by fat pressing on the cornea.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
If you notice drooping lids that narrow your vision, frequent forehead aches, or bags that do not settle with rest, ask your eye specialist for a referral. The surgeon will test your visual fields, check corneal shape and assess tear production before deciding.
How should I prepare in the days before blepharoplasty?
In short
In the week before blepharoplasty at Jaipur Hospital stop aspirin, warfarin, apixaban or other blood thinners as advised by your surgeon. Stop anti-inflammatory painkillers and herbal supplements that increase bleeding. Arrange someone to drive you home and stay with you the first night. Buy sterile saline, gauze pads and prescribed lubricating drops. Wash your face and eyelids thoroughly the morning of surgery and do not wear makeup or contact lenses.
In detail
Blood thinners raise the risk of haematoma during and after surgery. The protocol asks you to stop them seven days before. Antiplatelet and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs also affect clotting. The surgeon may prescribe antibiotic ointment to start the night before.
You must fast from midnight if sedation is planned; clear fluids may be allowed up to two hours before. Wear loose, front-buttoning clothing so you do not pull anything over your head. Remove jewellery and nail polish. Keep the head elevated on two to three pillows the night before to reduce morning swelling.
A common belief
Patients often forget to stop herbal supplements or over-the-counter painkillers that thin the blood.
What actually happens
The surgeon needs a full list of everything you take, not just prescription drugs.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Confirm the exact fasting time with the anaesthesia team. Pack dark sunglasses for the trip home. Fill any prescriptions for pain relief and antibiotic ointment ahead of time.
What are the common side effects and the less common serious complications of blepharoplasty?
In short
Common side effects after blepharoplasty at Jaipur Hospital include bruising, swelling, temporary numbness, watery or dry eyes, blurry vision from ointment, and tight scarring that fades over months. Less common but serious complications include infection, significant bleeding into the eye socket, asymmetry of the eyelids, ectropion where the lower lid turns outward, injury to eye muscles causing double vision, and rare visual impairment.
In detail
Studies report that ecchymosis and oedema peak around day seven and improve over weeks. Asymmetry is one of the most frequent complications because the eyelid crease is a visible landmark. Fat removal can cause a hollow look or tear trough deformity.
Transcutaneous lower lid approaches carry a higher rate of scleral show and ectropion compared with transconjunctival techniques. Haematoma can occur from fragile vessels or blood pressure spikes; radiofrequency cautery and stopping blood thinners reduce this risk. Severe complications such as retrobulbar haemorrhage or optic nerve injury are rare but require urgent treatment.
A common belief
Many people think the only risk is a visible scar, but functional problems such as dry eye, asymmetry, or ectropion can also occur.
What actually happens
Choosing the right technique and following aftercare lowers these risks significantly.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Follow all postoperative instructions: cold compresses, head elevation, lubricating drops, and avoiding strain. Attend every follow-up appointment so the surgeon can check healing and symmetry.
Seek immediate care if you develop severe pain, sudden vision change, increasing swelling, signs of infection, or bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure.
Which symptoms are expected after blepharoplasty, and which need urgent medical attention?
In short
Expected symptoms after blepharoplasty at Jaipur Hospital include puffy and numb eyelids that are difficult to close fully, watery or irritated eyes, bruising, blurry vision from ointment, and a tight feeling along the incision lines. Swelling is usually worse in the morning and improves during the day. These typically settle over several weeks. Urgent symptoms are severe pain not relieved by prescribed medicine, sudden vision loss or double vision, increasing swelling with firmness, continuous drainage from suture lines, suture separation, fever above 38°C, shaking chills, or sudden shortness of breath.
In detail
Studies report that oedema, ecchymosis, itching, and pain are common in the first week and decline by day thirty. Blurry vision from intraoperative ointment is temporary. Dry eye symptoms may persist for a few weeks and are managed with lubricating drops.
Serious complications such as retrobulbar haemorrhage present with severe pain, proptosis, and vision change and require immediate evacuation. Infection shows increasing redness, warmth, purulent discharge, and fever. Suture dehiscence or ectropion may need early revision. The care team should be contacted promptly for any of these warning signs.
A common belief
Some people wait too long thinking severe pain or vision change is normal healing.
What actually happens
It is not. Early treatment of bleeding or infection protects your vision and result. Know the red flags before you go home.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Keep the emergency numbers given at discharge handy. Use cold compresses and lubricating drops as instructed. Do not rub the eyes or wear contact lenses for two weeks. If you notice any urgent symptom, call the hospital or go to the emergency department without delay. Attend all scheduled follow-ups so the surgeon can detect early problems.
FAQ library
Questions and answers about blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)
When you contact us
What you get at Jaipur Hospital
Call us or visit the OPD and our plastic surgery team will check your eyelids, explain your options in plain words and give you a cost estimate.
- A consultation with a plastic surgeon in the OPD
- Your scans and reports reviewed, with tests done in-house if you need them (laboratory, X-ray and imaging)
- Your options explained in plain words, including whether you need surgery at all
- A cost estimate before you decide
- Help with cashless treatment under RGHS, MAA Yojana, CGHS and empanelled insurers and TPAs
- Follow-up visits after your treatment
Overview
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery): what to know
What blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) means
- Eyelid surgery
- Removes or repositions skin, fat and muscle
- Dermatochalasis
- Extra skin folds from loss of elasticity
- Fat prolapse
- Fat moves forward through the orbital septum
- Vision effect
- Extra skin may block outer vision
Blepharoplasty is the medical name for eyelid surgery. It removes extra tissue from the upper and lower eyelids and the area around the eyes. It can reshape the eyelids by removing or repositioning skin, fat and muscle. The word comes from blepharon, meaning eyelid, and plastikos, meaning to mould.
The eyelid has layers of skin and muscle. Over time, the skin can lose elasticity and collect into folds. This is called dermatochalasis, a common condition in which extra skin and lid thinning mostly come with ageing. Fat behind the eyelid can also move forward through the orbital septum and make the lid look full.
The extra skin may hang over the lashes and close off the outer part of your vision. Some people seek surgery because the lids look heavy or tired. Others need help because the folds affect sight or irritate the eye.
Blepharoplasty symptoms and warning signs
- Severe pain or unexpected symptom
- Fever 38°C or higher, shaking chills
- Worsening pain, swelling or redness
The usual complaint is droopy eyelids that make you look dull or older than your age. The heavy skin can block the upper or outer part of your visual field and make daily activities harder. Your eyelashes may turn toward the eye, or the skin may push them into your line of vision.
Light passing through the overhanging fold can cause glare, halos or distorted vision. Large fat pads can press on the cornea, change its shape and cause astigmatism. Irritation, dry eye and misdirected lashes can occur together. Some people also have lateral hooding with lashes that droop at the outer corner.
After eyelid surgery, puffy, numb lids that are hard to close are common at first. Irritated, sensitive or watery eyes may last a few weeks. Bruising is common, and scars may look visible and feel tight for a few months.
Contact Jaipur Hospital the same day if you have:
- severe pain or any unexpected symptom
- a fever of 38°C or higher, or shaking chills
- pain, swelling or redness that is getting worse
- continuous fluid from the stitch line, or stitches that come apart
- sudden shortness of breath or trouble breathing
- blurred or double vision, heavy bleeding, or bleeding into the eye socket
- a lower eyelid that droops away from the eye and turns outward
Causes of drooping eyelids and who is at higher risk
- Ageing
- Skin loses elasticity, extra skin collects
- Heredity
- Family traits and fat descent crowd upper lid
- Asian eyelid anatomy
- Lower lid fold attachment gives single-eyelid look
Ageing is a common reason. As skin loses elasticity, extra skin collects around the upper and lower lids and the eyes can look full. Dermatochalasis is an involutional change, and its incidence is rising as people live longer. In people over 45, the reported prevalence of sagging eyelids is about 16%, and it is more frequent in males.
Heredity can also play a part. Family traits and age-related changes can make fat around the eyebrow descend and crowd the upper eyelid. Fat prolapse through the orbital septum often happens along with dermatochalasis.
Blepharochalasis is a different condition. It affects young people and causes repeated swelling of the upper lids that causes no pain, often starting at puberty and worse with crying or periods. Over time the lid tissue stretches and becomes baggy.
Blepharoplasty may also be considered for Graves' eye disease and for some growths, such as a large xanthelasma, a mass or a tumour. Injury to the eyelids or orbit can also damage the lid and make functional surgery necessary.
Asian eyelids often have a lower attachment of the lid fold, which can give a single-eyelid look. Some young Asian and Northeast Indian people ask for a crease to be created or made more even.
How eyelid problems are diagnosed before blepharoplasty
- Schirmer 1 and 2 tests
- Measure tear formation on filter paper
- Tear film break-up time
- Measured after dye placed in tear film
- Ocular Surface Disease Index
- Twelve-question score for dry eye symptoms
- Corneal topography and tomography
- Map corneal shape, thickness and astigmatism
Your surgeon will examine your eyelids, the skin around them, and your eyes. An eye exam and a general checkup are needed before surgery to make sure you are healthy enough for an operation.
The assessment looks at how much extra skin you have, how much orbital fat has moved forward, whether the lower lid is loose, and the shape of the lid-cheek junction.
If dry eye is a concern, your doctor may check your tears. The Schirmer 1 and 2 tests measure tear formation on filter paper placed inside the lower eyelid. Tear film break-up time is measured after a dye is placed in the tear film. A twelve-question Ocular Surface Disease Index can score your dry eye symptoms.
Corneal topography and tomography can map the shape and thickness of the cornea and measure astigmatism. Eye pressure can be measured with a tonometer.
Your surgeon will ask about your medicines, including aspirin, warfarin or apixaban, because these affect bleeding and clotting. In one study, antiaggregate medicines were stopped one week before surgery. Your surgeon will tell you what is right for you. Do not stop any medicine on your own.
Before surgery, your surgeon marks the eyelid in good light while you sit comfortably and look straight ahead. The marks plan where the skin will be removed and where the crease will sit.
Non-surgical options and when blepharoplasty is advised
Blepharoplasty is surgery. Its aim is to remove or reposition extra skin, muscle and fat around the eye. If your main problem is loss of volume rather than loose skin, some doctors use fat injection or hyaluronic acid fillers in selected cases. These are used to replace volume, not to remove loose skin. Your surgeon will advise whether any non-surgical option is suitable for you.
Surgery is advised when the extra skin blocks your visual field, when lashes rub the eye surface, or when the appearance troubles you. A healthcare provider may suggest blepharoplasty if the lids droop in front of the eyes enough to affect vision. On the upper lid, it may be medically necessary to improve peripheral vision.
In studies, upper blepharoplasty has been followed by a larger visual field and better headache-related quality of life. Some studies also report better contrast sensitivity, though results are not consistent.
The operation can be done in different ways. Upper blepharoplasty uses a cut in the natural eyelid crease to remove hooded skin. Lower blepharoplasty may use a transconjunctival cut inside the lid or a subciliary cut below the lashes to treat bags. Asian blepharoplasty creates a double eyelid fold, with an epicanthoplasty option. Your surgeon will advise which technique suits your eyelids.
At Jaipur Hospital, eyelid surgery usually takes 1 to 2 hours under local anaesthesia with sedation. It is usually a daycare procedure, and you go home after a few hours. Recovery is usually 10 to 14 days to look socially presentable, with full healing in 4 to 6 weeks. The typical range in India is ₹60,000 to ₹1,50,000. Ask us for an estimate.
Like any operation, blepharoplasty has risks. These include:
- Bleeding
- Bruising
- Infection
- Uneven lids
- Noticeable scarring
- Reduced or increased lid sensation
- Dry eyes
- Occasionally blurred or double vision
Some people find the effect is not what they hoped and choose another operation. Blepharoplasty can change your appearance and confidence, but it should not be expected to drastically change your look.
Preparing for blepharoplasty at Jaipur Hospital
Before eyelid surgery, you will have an eye examination and a general health check to make sure you are fit for the operation. Your surgeon will ask why you want the surgery and will look for any eyelid condition, or other reason, that could make the operation unsuitable for you.
Your surgical team will review every medicine you take. Your surgeon needs to know about medicines that lower the risk of blood clots, such as aspirin, warfarin or apixaban. Do not stop or change any medicine on your own. Your surgeon will tell you what to do.
Your doctor may check your tear film and the surface of your eye before surgery, using tests such as the Schirmer test and tear film break-up time. These show how well your eyes make and hold tears.
Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery. If possible, ask someone to stay with you for the first night or two. Bring dark sunglasses for the trip home. Follow the instructions your surgical team gives you for the day of surgery.
How blepharoplasty surgery is done
Blepharoplasty removes or repositions extra skin, fat and muscle around the eyes. Our surgical team usually performs it under local anaesthesia with sedation. The operation usually takes 1 to 2 hours, and you usually go home the same day. In some cases, it is done under general anaesthesia.
For the upper eyelids, your surgeon makes a cut along the natural crease and removes excess skin, fat or muscle. The scar usually sits hidden in the fold.
For the lower eyelids, the cut is made just below the lower lashes or on the inside of the eyelid. Your surgeon then repositions or removes the fat that causes bags, and sometimes a small amount of skin.
The inside approach is usually chosen for younger people with fat bags and little loose skin, while the approach through the skin is used when skin has to be removed.
Asian blepharoplasty creates a double eyelid fold, and an epicanthoplasty can be added. Your surgeon will advise which technique suits you.
Your surgeon marks the eyelids while you are seated and looking straight ahead. Thin sticky strips are usually placed to support the eyelids and are removed up to a week later.
Risks and complications of eyelid surgery
- Asymmetry
- Difference in crease on each side is easy to see
- Bruising and blood collection under skin
- Usually does not affect sight but can delay recovery
- Ectropion
- Lower lid droops away from eye and turns outward
- Scleral show rates differ by approach
- Inside approach 3%, skin approach 28% in one study
Every operation has risks. In eyelid surgery, asymmetry is one of the most common complications, because a difference in the crease on each side is easy to see. Bruising and a collection of blood under the skin can also occur; this usually does not affect sight but can delay recovery.
Swelling, bruising, itching and pain are common in the first days, and patients rate them from absent to severe. Bruising may take several weeks to fade.
Sensation in the eyelids may be reduced or increased. Some people have blurred or double vision for a time. Less common problems include bleeding into the eye socket, injury to the eye muscles, a blood clot in a vein, infection, and an allergic reaction to the anaesthetic.
Lower eyelid surgery can leave the lid drooping away from the eye and turning outwards, called ectropion. In one comparative study, the inside approach was linked to a 3% rate of scleral show, compared with 28% for the approach through the skin. Scars can be noticeable.
Removing too much fat can leave a hollow look. Damage to the muscle can lead to lower lid laxity. One case report described strabismus after upper eyelid surgery.
Recovery after blepharoplasty
- First 24 hours Cold compresses 10 to 15 minutes at a time
- 2 weeks Keep head on 2 to 3 pillows when resting or sleeping
- 3 to 4 days Avoid heavy lifting and exercise
- 2 to 7 days Stitches usually removed
- 2 weeks Avoid contact lenses, eye makeup, creams on wounds
- 5 days Avoid full shower
Most people go home the same day. For the first 24 hours, use cold compresses for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. After the first day, ice packs 3 to 4 times a day and sleeping with the head raised help to reduce swelling for about 5 days.
Keep your head on 2 to 3 pillows for 2 weeks when you rest or sleep. Avoid heavy lifting and exercise for the first 3 to 4 days. Try to avoid sneezing, coughing and vomiting, which can raise blood pressure and cause bleeding.
Your eyelids may look puffy and feel numb and hard to close at first. Your eyes may be irritated, sensitive or watery for a few weeks. Swelling is usually worse in the morning. Swelling in the cheeks and jawline starts to improve 2 to 3 weeks after surgery.
Stitches are usually removed between 2 and 7 days. Do not wear contact lenses for at least 2 weeks. Avoid eye makeup for 10 to 14 days, and creams or makeup on the wounds for 2 weeks. You can shower from the neck down; avoid a full shower for 5 days.
Most people feel ready for their usual routine after a week or two, and many take about 2 weeks off work, depending on the job. Do not drive until the pain medicine is stopped and blurry vision clears. Bruises and redness may take several weeks to fade, and scars may feel tight for a few months.
Dry eyes may last a few weeks; your care team can suggest unmedicated drops or ointment. Protect your eyes from sun and wind with sunglasses, and use sunscreen on healing scars. Avoid swimming and strenuous activity for a few days.
Most people are socially presentable in 10 to 14 days, with full healing in 4 to 6 weeks.
Call the hospital if you have severe pain or any unexpected symptoms. Also call if you have:
- A fever of 38°C or higher
- Shaking chills
- Increasing pain, swelling or redness
- Continuous discharge from the stitches
- Stitches that separate
- Sudden shortness of breath or trouble breathing
Results of blepharoplasty
- 26.2% Superior visual field improvement
- 0.55 dioptres Average astigmatic change
- 98% Patient satisfaction
Upper eyelid surgery can widen the visual field. In one study of 17 patients, the superior visual field improved by 26.2%. Studies also report better contrast sensitivity and less glare after surgery for sagging eyelids. One study found improvement in headache-related quality of life.
Changes in astigmatism and corneal shape have been reported, but the findings are not consistent between studies. One study of 18 eyelids found an average astigmatic change of 0.55 dioptres. Eyebrow height, contrast sensitivity and eyelid movement have also varied between studies.
Patients are generally satisfied with the aesthetic result and the scar after upper eyelid surgery. In one study, all patients were satisfied, and another reported that 98% of patients were satisfied.
Blepharoplasty can change appearance and confidence, but it should not be expected to change your look drastically. The result cannot be fixed in advance, and some people feel they need another operation.
Blepharoplasty cost and insurance in Jaipur
The typical range for blepharoplasty at Jaipur Hospital is ₹60,000 to ₹1,50,000. This is a typical range in India, not a fixed price. The exact cost depends on which eyelids are treated, the technique your surgeon advises, and the care you need before and after. Ask us for an estimate.
You should also allow for consultations, any further surgery and follow-up care that may be needed.
Jaipur Hospital is a NABH-accredited multispeciality hospital, privately run, and was established in February 1991. The hospital works with RGHS, MAA Yojana, CGHS, and a panel of private insurers and TPAs. Blepharoplasty may be medically necessary when drooping eyelids block peripheral vision.
Your scheme or policy decides what it covers, so ask us for an estimate and for help understanding your cover.
