Contact number: 020 7806 4060
What is blepharoplasty?
For most people, the skin around the eyes is the first to show signs of ageing. As you get older, the eyelids can droop or ‘bags’ develop under the eyes. Excess skin or fat on the upper eyelid can impair your vision. Some people’s genes can lead to bags under the eyes developing from an early age too. Functional blepharoplasty can help improve your vision by removing obstructions and restoring a more natural eyelid contour.
Eyelids play a crucial role in facial aesthetics. Addressing sagging or asymmetrical eyelids through blepharoplasty can contribute to overall facial harmony and balance. Some individuals may feel self-conscious about the appearance of their eyelids. Blepharoplasty can help improve self-esteem and confidence by addressing these concerns.
There are two types of blepharoplasty: upper eyelid blepharoplasty and lower eyelid blepharoplasty. Both upper and lower blepharoplasty can be performed independently or together, depending on the specific concerns of the patient.
Considering eyelid surgery?
At St John & St Elizabeth Hospital, we offer expert private blepharoplasty performed by leading oculoplastic surgeons in our state-of-the-art London facility. During your consultation, your surgeon will assess your facial anatomy, discuss your desired results, and guide you through every step of the procedure, including any non-surgical alternatives. Pre-assessment is handled by our experienced nursing team to ensure you’re fully prepared and safe for surgery. From tailored planning to detailed aftercare advice, your wellbeing and aesthetic goals are our priority.
Eyelid surgery is typically a day-case procedure carried out under local or general anaesthetic, depending on your needs. Whether you’re addressing puffiness, drooping, or under-eye bags, our surgeons use precise techniques that minimise visible scarring and downtime. Following surgery, most patients are discharged the same day to recover comfortably at home, with a full support plan to aid healing. With careful aftercare, most people return to daily activities within two weeks, enjoying a fresher, more rested appearance with natural-looking results.
How much does blepharoplasty cost?
from £1,780*
The price shown includes all costs associated with your treatment, from admission to discharge. Doesn’t include surgeon or anaesthetist fee. Our hospital fee is guaranteed at the price quoted and valid for one month from the date issued, subject to pre-assessment.
| £1,780 |
| £1,890 |
| £2,310 |
| £2,240 |
|
| £2,495 |
| £2,585 |
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
Frequently asked questions about blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty price is from £1,780*
Your consultation will be with one of our oculoplastic surgeons. They’ll explain the procedure in detail, including risks, benefits, and pre- and post-operative care. Photographs will be taken for surgical planning, and it’s helpful to bring previous facial photos. Your medical history, lifestyle habits (such as smoking), medications, allergies and any previous surgeries will be reviewed. A full examination of your face and eyelids will be carried out, including checks for conditions such as dry eyes or eyelid laxity that could affect your results. Non-surgical alternatives like tear trough filler may also be discussed.
You’ll speak with our pre-assessment team to confirm you’re fit for surgery. If you take blood thinners (e.g. warfarin, aspirin) or NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen), let your doctor know—these may need to be paused. In the two weeks before surgery, wear SPF50 to protect your skin. If you’re having general anaesthetic, stop eating six hours before and stop drinking, chewing gum and sucking sweets two hours before. On the day, wear loose clothing and bring essentials including prescription medications and dark sunglasses for light sensitivity after surgery.
Eyelid surgery can be done under local anaesthetic, sedation or general anaesthetic, depending on your needs.
Upper blepharoplasty involves an incision in the natural crease to remove excess skin or fat.
Lower blepharoplasty may be done just below the lash line or inside the lower eyelid to remove or reposition fat.
Sticky suture strips may be used to support the eyelids post-surgery. The procedure lasts between 45 minutes and 2.5 hours, and most people return home the same day.
You’ll rest in a private room before going home, but you must be collected by someone else and may need overnight support. Expect some pain, swelling, dry eyes, blurred vision and sun sensitivity in the first few days. Bruising and swelling are common for up to 10 days. Use ice packs (like frozen peas wrapped in a cloth) several times a day to reduce swelling, and keep your head elevated with extra pillows while sleeping. Follow all aftercare instructions, including use of eye drops and avoiding rubbing your eyes.
Most people can wear contact lenses and make-up after two weeks, but confirm this at your follow-up appointment. You’ll be reviewed to check healing, visual field improvement and skin condition, and prescribed further treatment if needed. Most patients return to work within two weeks, though this depends on your job. Bruising and tightness may last several weeks, but scarring fades over time and usually becomes barely visible.
Medically reviewed by Dr Nick Koutroumanos - MBBS FRCOphth PgC Clin Ed FHEA on 13/12/2023