Blepharoplasty (Upper & Lower Eyelids)

Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the eyelids. It can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. The procedure involves removing excess skin, fat, and muscle from the eyelids to correct sagging or drooping upper lids and to reduce puffiness or bags under the eyes. Blepharoplasty can improve vision if drooping eyelids obstruct sight.

Before and afters Want to see our results with previous patients?

The Procedure

  • Pre-operative At your initial consultation, your surgeon will assess your overall discuss your specific concerns regarding your eyelids. Your surgeon will perform an examination of your eyelids and surrounding areas, assessing the amount of excess skin, fat deposits, muscle laxity, and the position of the eyebrows. After your consultation, a surgical plan and quote will be provided.
  • The Surgery Blepharoplasty is performed as a day procedure under a general anaesthetic. In most circumstances, no overnight admission in hospital is required. Your surgeon will ensure you have any required pain relief and post-operative care instructions.
  • Recovery In the first few days following the surgery, it is common to experience swelling, bruising, and some mild discomfort. The level and duration of swelling and bruising can vary from person to person. It usually peaks within the first few days and gradually subsides over the following weeks.

The Coastal Clinic Surgeons Who Perform This Surgery

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We invite you to reach out to our dedicated team to discuss your surgical and non-surgical needs. At The Coastal Clinic, we understand that every individual has specific goals and concerns. Our patient liaisons are here to answer any of your questions.

Blepharoplasty (Upper & Lower Eyelids)Recovery & Aftercare

Initial Recovery

First 7 days: you may experience mild to moderate swelling, bruising to be expected. Managed with cold compresses and head elevation. No wound dressings, but an antiseptic
barrier cream applied.

Pain Management

Follow-Up Appointments

Activity Restrictions

Scar Care

Final Result

When is a Blepharoplasty Considered Medical?

  • A blepharoplasty may be considered medically necessary — and therefore eligible for a Medicare rebate — when excess eyelid skin is significantly obstructing vision or causing functional impairment, rather than being sought for purely cosmetic reasons.
  • The relevant MBS item numbers are 45617 for upper eyelid reduction and 45620 for lower eyelid reduction. We see many patients who require blepharoplasty for medical reasons, and eligibility is assessed on an individual basis at consultation.
  • To access a Medicare rebate under item 45617, an optometrist or ophthalmologist must demonstrate that excess eyelid skin is obstructing the patient’s visual field. Two visual field tests are required for each eye — one with the eyelid in its natural resting state and one with the eyelid taped up — to confirm that the drooping lid is the cause of the obstruction. A report documenting visual field disturbance, or a history of irritation within the folds of excess skin, will be required as part of this process. If you would like guidance on the type of report needed, please contact our clinic prior to your consultation.
  • For lower eyelid reduction under item 45620, eligibility applies to conditions such as herniation of orbital fat in cases of exophthalmos, facial nerve palsy, or post-traumatic scarring.
  • Your surgeon will assess your individual circumstances at consultation and advise whether your procedure meets the criteria for Medicare coverage under the relevant item number.

Blepharoplasty (Upper & Lower Eyelids)Frequently Asked Questions

If we haven’t addressed your inquiries yet, here are some frequently asked questions that may provide the information you’re looking for. However, if you still have any remaining questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our clinic at 07 5683 0820 or via email at admin@thecoastalclinic.com.au. Our team is ready to assist you.

Will there be any visible scarring ?

The visibility and appearance of scars after eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) can vary depending on the surgical techniques used and your individual healing. During your consultation your surgeon will discuss your incision location which will be determined by level of ptosis.

Are there any risks or potential complications associated with blepharoplasty?

Can I combine a Blepharoplasty with a Facelift

How long do the results of blepharoplasty last?

Are there alternative non-surgical treatments for eyelid rejuvenation?

Risks Of Surgery

As part of our commitment to delivering exceptional patient care, we aim to provide you with comprehensive information regarding the general risks associated with surgical procedures, anaesthesia, and procedure-specific risks.

Specific Procedure Risks

  • Under or over resection
  • Webbing of the skin
  • Nerve damage
  • Bleeding
  • Ectropin
  • Bruising and Swelling
  • Under or over resection
  • Webbing of the skin
  • Nerve damage
  • Bleeding
  • Bruising and Swelling

General Operative and Anaesthetic Risks