The eye area is one of the first parts of the face where signs of ageing may become visible. Sagging skin on the upper eyelids, under-eye bags, or a persistently tired appearance can affect the overall expression of the face, even when someone feels well rested.
Blepharoplasty is one of the most common facial aesthetic procedures and aims to improve the appearance of the upper and/or lower eyelids while preserving the natural harmony and individuality of the face.
What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty can be performed on the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both, depending on each patient’s individual needs.
In the upper eyelids, the procedure usually involves addressing excess skin and, where necessary, managing fatty tissue. In the lower eyelids, the aim may be to improve under-eye bags, tissue laxity, and the overall support of the area around the eyes.
The approach is always individualised, as the anatomy of the eyelids and the mid-face can vary significantly from one person to another.
Lower Eyelid and Mid-Face Suspension
In selected cases, lower eyelid surgery may be combined with a mid-face suspension technique, which focuses not only on the lower eyelid itself but also on supporting the middle third of the face.
The under-eye area, cheekbones, and cheeks function anatomically as an interconnected unit. When there is tissue laxity or downward displacement, simply removing skin or fat from the lower eyelid may not always be the most appropriate approach.
With mid-face suspension, the aim is to reposition and support the tissues of the mid-face, helping to create a smoother transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek and a more harmonious overall result.
The choice of technique depends on the patient’s anatomy, the degree of laxity, and individual needs, and is determined following a thorough clinical assessment.
Upper Eyelid and Scarless Lift
For the upper eyelid, Dr Andreas Ioannidis applies the Scarless Lift approach in appropriately selected patients, with the aim of rejuvenating the upper eyelid area and the overall appearance of the eyes through a discreet and individualised surgical approach.
The philosophy of the technique is based on tailored management of the tissues in the area so that the result remains natural and the patient’s individual facial expression is preserved.
Depending on the case, the Scarless Lift may be combined with lower eyelid treatment and mid-face suspension, allowing the eye area to be addressed as a whole rather than as separate, isolated areas.
The suitability of each technique is always determined by the patient’s anatomy, tissue quality, and desired outcome.
When May Blepharoplasty Be Indicated?
Blepharoplasty may be considered when there is visible skin laxity or excess skin on the upper eyelids, when the eyelids appear heavy, or when under-eye bags remain prominent regardless of rest.
In some cases, upper eyelid laxity may be significant enough to affect part of the visual field. In these situations, blepharoplasty may also have a functional role in addition to its aesthetic benefits.
However, the presence of sagging skin or under-eye bags does not automatically mean that someone is a suitable candidate for surgery. The correct indication can only be established following a clinical examination and assessment by a plastic surgeon.
Is There an Ideal Age for Blepharoplasty?
There is no single age that is considered appropriate for everyone.
Changes in the eyelid area are influenced by several factors, including genetics, skin quality, facial anatomy, and the natural ageing process.
For this reason, some people may develop pronounced skin laxity or under-eye bags at a younger age, while others may experience these changes much later. The decision to proceed with surgery is therefore based mainly on the clinical findings and the individual patient’s needs.
What to Expect During Recovery
After blepharoplasty, it is normal to experience some swelling and bruising around the eyes. The degree and duration vary from patient to patient and gradually improve as healing progresses.
When the procedure includes combined techniques such as mid-face suspension, the recovery process is adapted to the extent of the surgery and the individual characteristics of the patient.
The plastic surgeon will provide specific instructions regarding care of the area, eye protection, medication when required, and the return to normal daily activities.
During the first few days, rest is generally recommended, together with avoidance of strenuous physical activity and careful protection of the operated area.
When Can You Return to Your Daily Routine?
Recovery time depends on the type of blepharoplasty performed, the techniques used, and each patient’s individual healing process.
Most patients gradually return to their usual activities as swelling and bruising subside. The result, however, continues to evolve over a longer period, as the tissues need time to heal fully and settle.
How Natural Can the Result Look?
One of the main goals of modern eyelid surgery is to achieve a result that does not alter the natural expression of the face.
The aim is not to create a “different” look, but to address features that make the eye area appear tired or heavy while preserving the patient’s unique anatomical characteristics.
Combining upper and lower eyelid techniques, together with mid-face support where indicated, can allow for a more comprehensive approach to the entire periocular area.
The Importance of an Individualised Assessment
Blepharoplasty is not the same for every patient.
One person may require treatment only of the upper eyelids, another only of the lower eyelids, while in certain cases a combination of Scarless Lift for the upper eyelid and mid-face suspension for the lower eyelid and middle third of the face may be recommended.
During the consultation, the anatomy of the eyelids, the position of the mid-face tissues, skin quality, medical history, patient expectations, and the outcome that can be achieved safely and naturally are all carefully assessed.
Accurate information, realistic expectations, and an individualised medical evaluation are essential before any aesthetic surgical procedure.
Considering Blepharoplasty?
If you are concerned about eyelid laxity, under-eye bags, or a persistently tired appearance, a personalised consultation with Dr Andreas Ioannidis can help assess your anatomy and determine which surgical approach may be most suitable for you.
Every treatment plan is designed individually, with safety, natural-looking results, and facial harmony as the main priorities.
