Blepharoplasty Melbourne – Eyelid Surgery

Surgical Warning: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Read more on the Risks of Surgery

What is blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is surgery to adjust excess skin and, where appropriate, small fat pockets around the eyelids. The aim is to reduce upper eyelid heaviness and/or soften under-eye fullness, while maintaining eyelid function (including comfortable eyelid closure).

Blepharoplasty is generally described as:

• Upper blepharoplasty: focuses on excess upper eyelid skin (and sometimes fullness).
  
• Lower blepharoplasty: focuses on under-eye bags, puffiness, and loose lower lid skin in suitable patients.

What concerns can blepharoplasty address?

People consider blepharoplasty for a range of personal reasons, including:

• Upper eyelid hooding or “heavy” lids

• Skin resting near the lash line, which can make makeup application harder for some people

• Under-eye bags or puffiness

• A tired or “weighed down” look around the eyes

• Functional concerns in selected patients (for example, significant upper eyelid skin overhang that may reduce the upper field of vision after assessment)

During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss what blepharoplasty can realistically address for your features and what it cannot change.

Upper blepharoplasty vs lower blepharoplasty

Upper blepharoplasty targets excess skin on the upper eyelid. The incision is usually placed within the natural eyelid crease, where it can be less noticeable once healed. Your plan may also consider brow position, because brow descent can contribute to upper eyelid heaviness.

Lower blepharoplasty targets under-eye bags and, in some people, loose lower eyelid skin. Depending on your anatomy and the surgical plan, the surgeon may use:

• An approach inside the lower eyelid, or

• A fine incision just beneath the lash line when skin tightening is required.

The goal is to improve under-eye fullness while supporting lower eyelid position and comfort.

What is involved in blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is usually performed as a day procedure in an accredited day surgery facility. Anaesthesia depends on your plan and individual needs and may include local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthetic (your surgeon will discuss what is appropriate for you).

In general, the process includes:

• Consultation, examination, and surgical planning

• A procedure typically taking around 1–3 hours (varies by complexity and whether upper, lower, or both eyelids are treated)

• Going home the same day with a support person

• Follow-up visits to monitor healing and guide aftercare

Your surgeon will explain the approach recommended for your eyelids, including incision placement and expected healing stages.

Blepharoplasty recovery and aftercare

Recovery varies between individuals and depends on whether upper, lower, or both eyelids were treated.

Most people experience some combination of:

• Swelling and bruising, often most noticeable in the first few days, then gradually improving

• Tightness or mild discomfort, typically manageable with medication as advised

• Temporary dry or watery eyes (lubricating drops may be recommended)

General guidance often includes:

• Resting with your head elevated for the first few nights

• Using cold compresses as advised in the early phase

• Avoiding rubbing the eyes and following wound care instructions

• Taking time away from strenuous exercise until cleared by your surgeon

• Wearing sunglasses outdoors and protecting healing skin from sun exposure

Many people return to light, desk-based work in about 7–10 days, but this varies. Your surgeon will provide personalised advice based on your healing and your work demands.

Blepharoplasty scarring and results

When will I see the outcome?

You may notice early changes as swelling settles in the first couple of weeks. The area typically continues to refine over the following weeks. Scars and tissue firmness usually improve gradually over several months.

Will there be visible scars?

All surgery leaves scars, but blepharoplasty incisions are usually placed in natural lines to help them blend:

• Upper eyelids: generally within the eyelid crease

• Lower eyelids: either inside the lid or just beneath the lash line (if an external incision is required)

Scar appearance varies by individual healing, skin type, and aftercare. Your surgeon will explain scar care and what to expect for your specific plan.

How much does blepharoplasty cost?

Blepharoplasty costs vary depending on:

• Whether you are treating upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both

• Surgical complexity and whether another procedure is planned at the same time

• Day surgery facility and anaesthesia fees

After consultation, you will receive a personalised written quote outlining expected fees. The surgical fee for an upper or lower blepharoplasty starts at $6,000, and for a combined blepharoplasty, the surgical fee starts at $11,000. 

Is blepharoplasty covered by Medicare?

Medicare eligibility is assessed case by case and generally applies only when surgery is considered medically necessary (for example, a functional concern supported by assessment). If a Medicare item number applies, there may still be out-of-pocket costs. Private health insurance may contribute to hospital costs depending on your policy and waiting periods.

Your surgeon can explain what documentation may be needed (where relevant) and what is likely to apply in your situation.

Am I a suitable candidate for blepharoplasty?

You may be a candidate if:

• You have concerns such as upper eyelid hooding and/or under-eye bags that surgery may address

• You are in good general health and any conditions are well managed

• You have realistic expectations and understand that outcomes vary

• You can follow pre- and post-operative instructions (including wound care and activity limits)

Your surgeon will also consider eye health (for example, dry eye symptoms) and any factors that may affect healing.