What Is Blepharoplasty Surgery?
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the eyelids to look younger and fresher. The blepharoplasty procedure can be done on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. It also improves vision if sagging eyelids block the sight.
Who is it for?
✔️ Patients with sagging eyelids or under-eye bags.
✔️ Those looking for long term eyelid fat removal surgery.
✔️ People with extra skin above eyelid obstructing vision.
✔️ Anyone looking for a natural eye lift.
👉A study shows that upper eyelid blepharoplasty boosts confidence, enhances social interactions, and increases overall facial satisfaction.
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What Are The Types of Eyelid Surgery?
The classical method is best for severe sagging, the laser works well for minimal scarring, ultrasound is ideal for delicate fat removal, and non-surgical methods suit early signs of aging.
Classical techniques
The traditional method uses a scalpel to remove extra skin and fat, making it a more invasive surgical procedure primarily for upper and lower blepharoplasty. Stitches are required, and recovery takes about 1-2 weeks.
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Upper eyelid surgery – Removes excess skin and fat to improve vision and appearance.
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Lower blepharoplasty – Focuses on under-eye fat removal to reduce puffiness.
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Epicanthoplasty – Corrects inner eye folds to improve eye shape symmetry.
Newer techniques
Newer techniques in blepharoplasty offer natural-looking results with minimal scarring. These advanced methods are designed to provide natural-looking results for those seeking cosmetic eyelid enhancements.
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Laser blepharoplasty – A high-precision option that uses a laser instead of a scalpel, reducing bleeding and scarring.
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Ultrasound-assisted blepharoplasty – This procedure uses sound waves to break down fat before removal, making the procedure gentler and reducing swelling.
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Vibration-assisted technique – Helps redistribute fat smoothly while reducing discomfort and bruising.
Minimally invasive alternatives
These options give subtle lifting without surgery.
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Plasma pen treatments – Uses plasma energy to tighten and lift skin without surgery.
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Fillers – Add volume and improve contours for a youthful look, no surgery is needed.
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Radiofrequency skin tightening – Stimulates collagen to tighten skin, lift and rejuvenate without cuts or downtime.
👉Blepharoplasty stands out as the best option for long-term eyelid rejuvenation. While non-surgical treatments like CO2 lasers (80–90% satisfaction), plasma exeresis (85–95%), and fillers (70–85%) offer quicker recovery, their results last only months.
How Does Blepharoplasty Compare to Other Eye Rejuvenation Procedures?
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Patients often compare blepharoplasty with minimally invasive treatments. While all these options help to rejuvenate the eyes, they differ in terms of invasiveness, longevity and recovery time.
| Procedure |
Invasiveness |
Longevity |
Recovery time |
| Blepharoplasty |
Surgical |
permanent (10-15 years) |
1-2 weeks |
| Laser eye bag removal |
Minimally invasive |
5-7 years |
1-2 weeks |
| Fillers for eye bags |
Non-surgical |
6-12 months |
24-48 hours |
| Plasma pen treatments |
Non-surgical |
1-2 years |
24-48 hours |
| Radiofrequency skin tightening |
Non-surgical |
1-2 years |
1-3 days |
If you want minimal recovery time, non-surgical options like plasma pen treatments and radiofrequency skin tightening may be the way to go. Still, the results are temporary compared to surgical blepharoplasty.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?
Candidates for eye lift are those who:
✔️ Have sagging upper eyelids or puffy under-eye bags.
✔️ Have vision obstruction due to excess skin above the eyelid.
✔️ Want long-term solutions, not temporary fixes like fillers.
✔️ Are healthy, no severe eye conditions.
❗Patients with chronic dry eyes, active infections or uncontrolled medical conditions may be not suitable.
How Is the Surgery Performed?
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If you're considering the procedure, here's what the surgery involves and how to care for yourself afterward.
Pre-surgery preparations
📌 Consult with an eye lift surgeon to assess and discuss expectations.
📌 Pre-op medical tests, including blood work and eye exams.
📌 No exercise after eyelid surgery or strenuous activities for at least 2 weeks post-op.
⏳ How long does eyelid surgery take? 1-2 hours under local or general anesthesia.
Surgery steps
1️⃣ Consultation & Pre-op Tests – Includes vision tests, blood work, and a detailed discussion with your plastic surgeon.
2️⃣ Incisions – Hidden in natural eyelid creases or inside the lower lid.
3️⃣ Eyelid Fat Removal Surgery – Excess skin and fat are removed or repositioned.
4️⃣ Closure & Recovery – Sutures dissolve over time or are removed after a week.
Recovery timeline
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Swelling peaks at 48 hours subsides within 2 weeks
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Stitches removed (if needed) after 5-7 days
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Final results visible in 2-3 months
Recovery and Blepharoplasty Healing
Blepharoplasty healing time varies, but most patients can return to their daily lives in 10-14 days. The initial recovery period often takes place in a surgical facility to ensure proper care and monitoring.
Eyelid surgery recovery tips
✅ Use cold compresses for swelling.
✅ Sleep with head elevated.
✅Avoid makeup and contact lenses for at least 10 days.
✅ Avoid eye strain (screens, reading).
✅ Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect healing skin.
✅ Follow the blepharoplasty experience instructions from your surgeon.
📅 Full results are visible after 2-3 months when swelling goes down.
Why Choose Turkey for Eyelid Surgery?
Turkey is a leading medical tourism hub, attracting between 1.5 to 2 million health tourists in 2024.
✔️ Lower Costs – Up to 70% cheaper than in the US or UK.
✔️ Skilled surgeons – Board-certified professionals with ISAPS & EBOPRAS credentials, specializing in plastic surgery.
✔️ All-inclusive packages – Many clinics offer accommodation, transfers & aftercare
✔️ Fast recovery & tourism – Combine surgery with a trip to Istanbul’s historic sights.
Risks and Complications of Eyelid Correction Surgery
Eye rejuvenation surgery, like any surgery, carries risks. Most patients recover without issues, but knowing the potential side effects and rare complications is good.
👉Usually, blepharoplasty is a safe procedure. The study by Heirati et al. (2024) reports a high success rate (~92%), with most patients satisfied, highlighting its effectiveness.
Common side effects
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Swelling and bruising (1-2 weeks).
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Dry eyes, light sensitivity, or blurred vision.
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Mild discomfort or tightness in the eyelids.
❌Rare complications
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Infection or poor wound healing.
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Asymmetry in eyelid position.
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Excessive scarring or can’t close eyes.
Results: When to Expect the Effect?
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Eyelid reduction surgery gives long-lasting results in eye appearance and function.
⏳Swelling and bruising subside in 1-2 weeks, but final results are visible after 3-6 months as the tissues heal.
Is a Follow-Up Correction Needed?
Most patients don’t need additional procedures. However in rare cases of asymmetry or incomplete correction a minor revision may be needed after 6-12 months.
How Long Does the Effect Last?
Upper eyelid surgery results in last 10-15 years; lower blepharoplasty results are permanent. Aging, lifestyle, and skincare influence longevity.
What to Do Before Traveling to Turkey?
Here’s what to consider before your trip:
Visa requirements
Many nationalities enter Turkey visa-free or get an e-visa online in minutes. Check your country’s eligibility before booking.
⏳How long to stay?
Patients should plan at least 7 days in Turkey:
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Day 1: Consultation & pre-op tests
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Day 2: Surgery
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Day 3-6: Recovery & check-ups
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Day 7: Final examination before departure
Currency and payment methods
Turkish Lira (TRY) is a local currency, but USD and EUR are widely accepted at clinics. Cash payments may give discounts as credit card transactions in Turkey often have additional fees (up to 10%).
💡Book a direct flight if possible to minimize post-op discomfort. Even though the tickets are not included in package deals, Bookimed medical coordinators assist in all stages of the medical journey.
How Much Does Eyelid Surgery Cost?
The average cost of blepharoplasty depends on the country, the surgeon’s expertise, and whether services like accommodation and transfers are included.
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Turkey – Starts at $1,200, making upper and lower eyelid surgery cost up to 70% cheaper than in the US.
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USA – Prices begin at $4,100 and can go much higher, especially for laser eye bag removal cost and under eye lift cost.
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Europe – Generally more expensive than Turkey but often cheaper than the US.
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Asia & Latin America – Prices vary widely, but some destinations offer affordable eyelid fat removal surgery.
While cosmetic procedures are generally not covered by insurance, there may be exceptions for medically necessary cases where vision is obstructed by drooping eyelids.
How much is upper eyelid surgery in Turkish clinics?
Upper eyelid surgery in Turkey starts at $1,800, with prices reaching $4,600 in premium clinics.
How much is lower blepharoplasty in a Turkish clinic?
Lower blepharoplasty costs between $2,300 – $6,000, depending on the clinic, surgeon, and included services.
💡 What affects the price?
- Surgeon’s expertise.
- Type of procedure.
- Included services.
📌 Bookimed’s price policy ensures transparent pricing, so you pay directly at the clinic with no hidden fees. Clinics in Turkey offer all-inclusive packages, making surgery abroad a stress-free and budget-friendly option!
What’s Included in an Eyelid Surgery Package?
Most eyelid surgery packages in Turkey cover everything you need for a smooth experience. But always check the details before you book.
✅ Common Inclusions:
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Surgery & anesthesia – Covers procedures like upper eyelid surgery, lower blepharoplasty, or a full eye lift surgery.
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Hospital stay – Usually 1 night for monitoring after eyelid fat removal surgery.
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Pre-op tests & consultations – Includes blood work, eye exams, and a meeting with your eyelid lift surgeon.
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Medication & post-op care – Antibiotics, pain relievers, and eyelid surgery recovery tips.
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Accommodation – 4-5 star hotel for a comfortable recovery.
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Transfers – VIP airport pick-up and transport between the hotel and clinic.
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Interpreter services – Ensuring smooth communication.
❓ What to Confirm Before Booking:
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Follow-ups – Some clinics offer free check-ups after upper and lower eyelid cosmetic surgery.
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Additional services – Confirm if your package includes post-op care, follow-up consultations, or extras like PRP therapy for faster healing.
References
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Heirati, A., Mohammadbeigy, I., Pourazizi, M., & Eshraghi, B. (2024). Correction of Tear Trough Deformity with Minced Orbital Fat Grafts During Transconjunctival Lower Blepharoplasty. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-024-04086-y
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Verner, I., Naveh, H. P., & Cotofana, S. (2020). A novel ablative radiofrequency microplasma nonsurgical blepharoplasty for dermatochalasis. Dermatologic Therapy, 33(6). https://doi.org/10.1111/dth.14002
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Vasović, D. D., Karamarković, M. L., Jovanović, M., Stojičić, M., Rašić, D. M., Marjanović, I., Kalezić, T., & Jeremić, M. (2024). Comprehensive Evaluation of Quality of Life following Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty: A Prospective Analysis. Medicina, 60(3), 500. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60030500
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Health Tourism Data - USHAŞ. (n.d.). USHAŞ. https://www.ushas.com.tr/en/saglik-turizmi-verileri/