Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery in Cairns
If you're considering eyelid surgery in Cairns, Cairns Plastic Surgery offers expert upper eyelid lift procedures performed by Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Dr Isolde Hertess, FRACS.
Upper eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) can be used to remove excess skin or underlying fat from the upper eyes.
- Eyelid surgery is also referred to as 'blepharoplasty'
- Surgery typically takes around an hour and is often performed under general anaesthesia but can be performed in the rooms under local anaesthetic
- Blepharoplasty surgery in the rooms removes excess skin only
- The procedure is designed to remove excess fat, muscle, and skin from the eyelids
Sometimes, the upper blepharoplasty surgery may even be able to target vision problems if the patient has excess skin on the eyelids. Each patient's blepharoplasty procedure is customised based on their individual needs.
Blepharoplasty can be performed independently or alongside other procedures such as facelift (rhytidectomy) or brow lift browplasty.
Before and after. Individual results may vary.
What is an Upper Eyelid Lift?
An upper eyelid lift, also known as upper eyelid blepharoplasty, addresses hooded, heavy or drooping eyelids caused by loose skin and excess fat around the upper eye area. As we age, the skin above the eyes can lose elasticity, sometimes affecting how open and alert the eyes appear, and in more advanced cases, restricting the upper field of vision. An eyelid lift surgery is designed to restore a more refreshed, rested appearance while, where relevant, improving vision that has been obstructed by excess skin.
Many patients choose to combine their upper eyelid blepharoplasty with other facial procedures, such as a face and neck lift, for a more comprehensive rejuvenation. Others opt for eyelid surgery on its own as a standalone procedure. During your consultation, Dr Hertess will discuss which approach best suits your goals, facial anatomy and overall health.
Before and after. Individual results may vary.
How Does it Work?
The incision is made at the natural skin fold on the upper eyelid. The scar can be hidden by the skin fold on the upper eyelid. The excess skin and tissue can be removed. The incision is closed with a dissolvable suture or a suture that is removed a few days later.
Because the incision sits within the natural crease of the eyelid, any resulting scarring from upper blepharoplasty surgery is typically well concealed once healed, blending discreetly with the eye's natural contours.
What Happens During and After Surgery?
The procedure takes approximately one hour with either a general or local anaesthetic and sedation. Some procedures are performed as day surgery though in some cases you may be required to stay overnight in hospital.
To reduce swelling, bruising, and discomfort, you can apply ice packs after the procedure.
You may experience blurring however this is only due to the eye ointment used during surgery to protect the cornea. You must be picked up by a trusted friend or family member; you will not be allowed to leave the hospital on your own.
Blepharoplasty Recovery
The recovery time of each patient is different. It is important to allow yourself enough time for rest and time away from work. It can take up to two weeks for bruising to fade. For up to four weeks, the eyes can feel dry, tight, watery, and sensitive to light. You may require ointment or artificial tears, particularly at night.
Double vision can also be experienced. This happens when the tissues around the eye muscles are bruised. It is usually temporary. Sunglasses can be used to protect the eyes from the sun and glare during recovery and conceal the fact that the surgery is taking place.
Most patients feel comfortable returning to light daily activities within a week to ten days, though strenuous exercise and swimming should be avoided until Dr Hertess confirms it is safe to resume. Following your surgeon's post-operative instructions closely will support the best possible healing outcome.
Am I a Good Candidate For Eyelid Surgery?
Good candidates for an upper eyelid lift are generally in good general health, non-smokers or willing to stop smoking around the time of surgery, and have realistic expectations of what blepharoplasty can achieve.
Dr Hertess will assess your eyelid skin, muscle tone and any underlying vision concerns during your consultation to determine whether upper eyelid blepharoplasty surgery, or an alternative procedure, is right for you.
Before and after. Individual results may vary.
Surgery Cost
If eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is done for medical reasons, some costs may be covered by Medicare. Talk to your surgeon about the expected costs and any additional fees.
For more information about blepharoplasty surgery costs, please call Cairns Plastic Surgery on (07) 4031 5755.
Cairns Plastic Surgery also offers a broad range of other procedures, including breast lift surgery, breast augmentation surgery, breast reduction surgery, and skin cancer removal surgery. If you're exploring your options beyond eyelid surgery, our team is happy to discuss the full range of procedures available.
Book a Consultation Today
As a leading provider of plastic surgery in Cairns, Cairns Plastic Surgery has built a reputation for genuine, patient-first care. Dr Hertess brings over 30 years of surgical experience and membership with the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons to every upper eyelid blepharoplasty surgery she performs, ensuring each patient receives a considered, medically sound approach to their eyelid lift surgery.
To find out whether upper eyelid lift surgery is right for you, contact Cairns Plastic Surgery today to arrange a consultation with Dr Isolde Hertess.
Eyelid Lift Surgery FAQs
How long does upper eyelid blepharoplasty take to heal?
Most visible bruising and swelling settle within two weeks, though the eyes can feel dry, tight or sensitive to light for up to four weeks. Many patients return to light daily activities within a week to ten days, with strenuous exercise held off until Dr Hertess confirms it's safe to resume.
Is upper eyelid surgery painful?
Discomfort is generally mild and manageable with pain relief and ice packs in the days following surgery. Most patients describe the sensation as tightness or soreness around the eyes rather than sharp pain, and this typically eases within the first week.
Will upper eyelid blepharoplasty leave a visible scar?
The incision is placed within the natural crease of the upper eyelid, so any resulting scar is well concealed once healed and blends discreetly with the eye's natural contours.
Can eyelid surgery improve my vision?
In some cases, yes. When excess skin on the upper eyelids is heavy enough to obstruct the upper field of vision, removing it during blepharoplasty can improve sight as well as appearance. Dr Hertess will assess during your consultation whether this applies to you.
How much does eyelid surgery cost?
Costs vary depending on the extent of surgery, anaesthesia type and whether the procedure is performed for cosmetic or medical reasons, in which case some costs may be partially covered. Contact Cairns Plastic Surgery on (07) 4031 5755 for a personalised quote following your consultation.
CAIRNS PLASTIC SURGERY
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Level 1, Suite 12A,
193-197 Lake Street,
Cairns, QLD, 4870 - 07 4031 5755
- enquiry@cairnsplasticsurgery.com
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