Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in Istanbul

Upper and lower blepharoplasty planned by Op. Dr. Emre Özbey — a plastic surgeon who first completed specialist training in ophthalmology — around eye function, eyelid position and your natural expression.

  Free video consultation
Eyelid Surgeryby Op. Dr. Emre Özbey · EBOPRAS Fellow
CostPersonalised written quote · free video consultation
RecoveryOften 1–2 weeks away from work; swelling settles over weeks
Istanbul stayPlanned with the team after clinical reviews
ClinicIME Clinic · Bakırköy, Istanbul
LanguagesEnglish · Русский · Português · Español · Türkçe

What is blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is surgery of the upper or lower eyelids. In the upper lid it usually removes excess skin and, where needed, a small amount of fat; in the lower lid it can reposition or remove fat bulges and tighten loose skin. Incisions are placed in the natural upper-lid crease or just below the lower lash line, or inside the lower lid (transconjunctival).

The aim is a rested, natural-looking eye area that still looks like you. Results depend on anatomy, skin quality, brow position and healing. Because Op. Dr. Emre Özbey trained in ophthalmology before plastic surgery, eye health, tear film and eyelid support are part of the assessment before any surgical plan is made.

Upper vs. lower blepharoplasty

Upper and lower eyelid surgery treat different concerns and can be performed alone or together. The right choice is made after an examination.

FeatureUpper blepharoplastyLower blepharoplasty
Typical concernHooded or heavy upper lids, excess skinUnder-eye bags, fat bulges, loose skin
IncisionHidden in the upper-lid creaseBelow the lash line or inside the lid
AnaesthesiaOften local anaesthesia with sedationLocal with sedation or general anaesthesia
Stitch removalUsually within the first weekDepends on technique; inner incisions may need none
Specific pointsBrow position must be assessedLower-lid support and tear trough assessed

Eye health and eyelid position

Hooded lids or a low eyelid (ptosis)?

Hooded eyelids are usually caused by excess skin. Ptosis is a low position of the eyelid margin caused by a weak or stretched lifting muscle; it needs a different operation. Distinguishing the two is part of the examination.

Dry eye and contact lenses

Tell the surgeon about dry eyes, contact lens use, previous eye surgery or laser treatment. Eyelid surgery can temporarily worsen dryness, and these factors may change the plan or timing.

Brow position

A low brow can make the upper eyelid look heavy. If the brow is the main cause, removing eyelid skin alone may not give the expected change; this is discussed at consultation.

Combining with other procedures

Eyelid surgery can be combined with a facelift or other facial procedures when appropriate. Combining procedures changes the operating time, risks and recovery.

Who may be a candidate?

Suitability is decided after an individual examination. People who often ask about blepharoplasty include those with:

A video consultation with Op. Dr. Emre Özbey at IME Clinic can review your photographs and goals. Final suitability requires a face-to-face examination, including an eye assessment.

Recovery timeline

Day 1–3

Swelling and bruising are most noticeable. Cold compresses and head elevation are usually advised.

Week 1

Stitches are typically removed or checked. Eyes may feel dry, tight or watery.

1–2 weeks

The NHS describes about 1–2 weeks off work as general guidance.

2–3 weeks

Most visible bruising fades; light make-up may be allowed when the surgeon confirms.

Before flying

Agree your Istanbul stay and flight date with the team after the post-operative review.

3–6 months

Scars and residual swelling continue to mature; the final appearance develops gradually.

Eyelid surgery cost in Istanbul

The price depends on whether upper, lower or both eyelids are treated, the technique, the type of anaesthesia and any combined procedures. Ask IME Clinic for a written, itemised quote covering surgery, anaesthesia, hospital care, medicines and follow-up.

Compare written quotes for the same treatment scope, including travel and aftercare; price alone does not establish quality or safety. Request your personal quote →

Risks and possible complications

Like all surgery, blepharoplasty has risks. Possible complications include:

The surgeon should explain your individual risks, how complications would be managed and what follow-up is arranged after you return home.

Your surgeon for eyelid surgery

Op. Dr. Emre Özbey — Eyelid Surgery
  • Fellow of the European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (FEBOPRAS, 2026)
  • Specialist in plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery (Istanbul University, 2023) and in ophthalmology (2018)
  • Full member of TPRECD; member of ISAPS, EPCD and ECD
  • Completed a full specialty in ophthalmology at Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital before plastic surgery

About Op. Dr. Emre Özbey →

View Op. Dr. Emre Özbey’s education, experience and certificates

Download CV (PDF)

Eyelid surgery: frequently asked questions

Is upper eyelid surgery done under local anaesthesia?

Upper blepharoplasty is often performed under local anaesthesia with sedation; lower or combined eyelid surgery may use general anaesthesia. The anaesthesia plan depends on the procedure and your medical history.

Will the scars be visible?

Upper-lid incisions are placed in the natural crease and lower-lid incisions just below the lashes or inside the lid. Scars usually become less noticeable over months, but they do not disappear completely and healing varies.

How long do the results last?

Removed skin and fat do not return in the same way, but ageing continues. Many patients find the change lasts for years; skin quality, brow position and lifestyle influence how the eye area ages.

Can eyelid surgery fix dark circles?

Dark circles caused by pigmentation or thin skin are usually not corrected by surgery. Shadows from fat bulges or a deep tear trough may improve with lower blepharoplasty or fat repositioning, depending on the examination.

Why does the ophthalmology background matter?

Op. Dr. Emre Özbey trained as an ophthalmologist before specialising in plastic surgery. This training covers eye function and the anatomy around the eye, which is relevant when eyelid surgery is planned; it does not remove the risks of surgery.

Can I combine eyelid surgery with a facelift?

Yes, eyelid surgery is often combined with a facelift when both areas need treatment and the medical assessment allows it. The combined plan changes operating time, risks and recovery.

Related Procedures in Istanbul

Facelift & Neck Lift in Istanbul → Rhinoplasty in Istanbul → Breast Aesthetic Surgery in Istanbul → Body Contouring in Istanbul →

Patient information and further reading

General patient information from plastic surgery professional associations. These resources are in English.

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