Facial Aesthetics · Surgical
Eyelid Surgery
Blepharoplasty
Eyelid surgery in Istanbul: a measured refinement of excess skin and puffiness in the upper and lower lids that preserves your expression — within a calm 7-day stay.
Last medical review:Dr. Selin Arcan
- Duration
- 1–3 hours
- Anaesthesia
- Local with sedation, or general anaesthesia
- Hospital stay
- Same-day discharge or 1 night
- Stay in Istanbul
- 7 days
- Recovery
- Back to social life in 10–14 days
- Results
- Final result at 3–6 months
Overview
Blepharoplasty refines excess skin, lax muscle and prominent fat in the upper and lower eyelids, aiming for a rested look. A good result softens a tired or heavy appearance without changing the natural shape of your eyes.
Planning begins with an assessment of brow position, eyelid skin, the under-eye area and conditions such as dry eye. If excess upper-lid skin narrows your field of vision, this is addressed too, with an eye examination where needed.
Upper-lid surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia with sedation, and lower-lid or combined procedures under general anaesthesia, in our accredited partner hospital. Incisions sit in natural creases; stitches come out on days 5–7.
Who is it for?
- Anyone with heavy, hooded or folding skin on the upper lids
- People who feel that under-eye bags make them look tired
- Those whose upper-lid skin has begun to narrow their field of vision
- Patients planning to combine eyelid surgery with a facelift
- Adults with healthy eyes, good general health and realistic expectations
Techniques & options
01
Upper blepharoplasty
Excess skin, and a little fat where needed, is removed through an incision hidden in the lid crease. Usually done under local anaesthesia with sedation.
02
Lower blepharoplasty
A fine incision just below the lashes addresses puffiness and excess skin. Fat is often repositioned rather than removed, softening any hollowness.
03
Transconjunctival approach
For under-eye bags without excess skin, the incision is made inside the lid, leaving no visible scar. Often preferred for younger patients.
04
Combined blepharoplasty
Upper and lower lids are treated in the same session under general anaesthesia, aiming for a balanced result across the whole eye area.
How it works
- 1
Online assessment
You share close-up photos; your surgeon listens to your goals, assesses suitability and prepares a personal preliminary plan.
- 2
Arrival and consultation
You are met at the airport and settled into your hotel. The same day brings eyelid and brow analysis, any eye assessment needed and pre-operative tests.
- 3
Surgery day
After the 1–3 hour procedure you return to your hotel the same day or rest overnight in hospital under nurse supervision, depending on the anaesthesia.
- 4
Recovery at the hotel
Your coordinator schedules your check-ins; cold compresses, eye drops and medication keep you comfortable and swelling under control.
- 5
Final check and flight home
Your stitches are removed on days 5–7 and your aftercare plan is explained. Online follow-ups continue for 12 months.
Recovery timeline
Days 1–3
Rest
You rest with your head elevated. Swelling, bruising, watery eyes or temporary blurring can occur; discomfort is usually mild.
Days 4–7
Recovering
Swelling eases and bruising begins to fade. You keep reading and screen time short; stitches come out on days 5–7.
Week 2
Social life
Bruising largely settles and, with light make-up, most people return to work and social plans. Contact lenses wait for your surgeon's approval.
Weeks 3–6
Active life
Exercise resumes gradually. Sunglasses and sunscreen help protect the healing scars.
Months 3–6
Final result
Subtle swelling resolves and your eyes settle into their final expression. The scars fade over time within the natural lid crease.
The doctor planning your treatment
14 years' experience
Dr. Selin Arcan
Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
Dr. Selin Arcan is known for a surgical approach built on preserving facial proportions and natural-looking results. In rhinoplasty she gives structural preservation and breathing as much weight as aesthetics.
ISAPSTPRECDEBOPRAS
Frequently asked questions
Will I be awake during surgery?
Will there be scars, and what are the risks?
Will it help dark circles and hollows?
When can I fly home?
When can I wear make-up and contact lenses?
How long do the results last?
The information on this page is for general guidance and does not replace a personal medical assessment. The possible risks of any treatment, and whether it suits you, are discussed in detail at your consultation.
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