Eyelid Lift: What to Expect, Risks and Recovery

An eyelid lift is a surgical procedure available in Istanbul clinics for visitors considering treatment abroad. Many travellers explore cosmetic procedures during their visit, and an eyelid lift procedure in Istanbul Turkey is one option offered by accredited facilities.

This article explains what the procedure involves, how it works, the typical recovery process, and what to discuss with a licensed doctor. Quality and regulation of health services differ by country and provider, so it is important to verify credentials before deciding. Always consult a doctor in your home country before committing to any procedure abroad.

Quick answer: An eyelid lift, or blepharoplasty, surgically removes excess fat, muscle and skin from the upper and lower eyelids to redefine the shape of the eye. The procedure can remove puffiness or bags under the eyes and can also correct droopy eyelids. Results and healing vary from person to person.

At a Glance

Total time	Individual procedures take about 30 to 45 minutes to perform for upper eyelids alone; the entire surgery typically lasts 1–2 hours for combined procedures. Visible recovery usually takes 10 to 14 days for upper eyelids and longer for lower eyelids.
Typical cost	₺₺₺

What You Need Before You Start

• Medical examination by a licensed surgeon to confirm suitability
• Blood tests and health checks before surgery
• Discussion with your home country doctor before deciding
• Written treatment plan from the clinic
• Arrangement for follow-up care after you return home
• Time off work for visible recovery (typically 1–2 weeks)
• Verification of clinic and doctor licences in the Turkish health register

Compare Your Options

Option	Duration	Price	Notes
Upper Eyelid Lift (Upper Blepharoplasty)	30–45 minutes		Upper eyelid surgery concentrates on the region between the eyebrow and the eyelashes. Upper eyelid surgery tends to have a faster visible recovery. Bruising stays contained to the lid itself and typically clears within 10 to 14 days. Addresses droopy upper eyelids and excess skin.
Lower Eyelid Lift (Lower Blepharoplasty)	30–45 minutes		Lower eyelid surgery focuses on the area between the eyelashes and the cheek. Bruising spreads downward along the cheek, which can take up to three weeks to fade. Addresses under-eye bags and puffiness. Can be performed via transconjunctival incision (inside the lid) for minimal scarring.
Combined Upper and Lower Eyelid Lift	1–2 hours		Combined upper and lower surgery follows the longer lower eyelid timeline and adds a few days to the visible recovery period. Addresses both droopy upper eyelids and under-eye bags in one procedure. Longer recovery time than upper eyelids alone.
Ptosis Surgery (Droopy Eyelid Correction)	30–45 minutes		Ptosis is a form of droopy eyelid caused by weakened upper eyelid muscles. It can occur in one or both eyes and can affect peripheral vision, making tasks like reading and driving difficult. Ptosis surgery tightens the muscle through a cut made in the crease of the upper eyelid. Often combined with blepharoplasty to remove excess skin simultaneously.
Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty (Lower Eyelids Only)	30–45 minutes		If you only have pockets of fat beneath your lower eyelids and do not need to have any excess skin removed, your surgeon may recommend transconjunctival eyelid surgery. In this procedure, the incision is made on the inside of your lower eyelid, which leaves no visible scar. Transconjunctival blepharoplasty will not tighten skin, but will reduce puffiness in the lower eyelid region.

₺ budget · ₺₺ moderate · ₺₺₺ upscale · ₺₺₺₺ splurge. Price levels are estimates compared with typical prices for visitors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Consultation and Examination

A detailed examination of the eye, eyelids, facial skin and underlying tissues is usually carried out to assess whether surgery is suitable. The surgeon discusses the patient's goals and examines the patient sitting upright, since eyelid tissue shifts when lying down. This step helps plan the procedure and determine suitability, which only a licensed doctor can decide.

Tip: Eye conditions and medications can be mentioned at this appointment. Dry eyes in particular are worth telling the surgeon about, as they affect how much tissue can be removed.

Step 2: Prepare Medical Documentation

Blood tests and health checks are arranged as requested by the clinic, and medical records from the home country can be brought. Doctors usually advise stopping smoking several weeks before surgery, as smoking can affect healing. Blood-thinning medications or supplements are discussed with both the home doctor and the surgeon.

Tip: A written list of blood pressure medications, allergies and previous surgeries can be shared with the anaesthetist.

Step 3: Anaesthesia

The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia with sedation, so the patient is awake but relaxed. Local anaesthesia allows the surgeon to assess the symmetry of the eyes during surgery. Patients may feel pressure or hear instruments, and sensations differ from person to person.

Tip: Someone to collect the patient after surgery is usually arranged, as driving is not possible.

Step 4: Upper Eyelid Incision and Removal

During an upper eyelid lift, the surgeon marks areas with excess fat and skin. An incision is made along the natural eyelid crease, and excess skin, fat or muscle is removed. The incision is closed, and the scar is placed within the natural fold of the eyelid.

Tip: Because the incision is placed in the natural crease, the scar is usually less visible once healed.

Step 5: Lower Eyelid Correction (if applicable)

In lower eyelid blepharoplasty, fat pads are removed or repositioned, sometimes through a cut made inside the lower eyelid. This transconjunctival technique usually leaves no external scar. If under-eye puffiness is caused mostly by excess fat, the procedure can sometimes be performed through a small incision on the inside of the lower lid, with dissolving sutures.

Tip: Lower eyelid surgery usually causes more bruising and swelling than upper eyelid surgery alone.

Step 6: Suture Placement and Closure

After excess fat, muscle and skin are removed, fine sutures close the incision. Sutures are usually removed about one week after surgery. Dissolvable sutures may be used instead, depending on the technique.

Tip: The suture area is kept clean and dry, and the surgeon gives specific cleaning instructions.

Step 7: Immediate Post-Operative Care

After an upper eyelid procedure, swelling, bruising and mild discomfort around the eyelids and eyes are common. These effects usually ease after a week or two. Blurred vision from lubricating ointment and puffy, numb eyelids are common, as are swelling and bruising that can resemble black eyes.

Tip: Cold compresses in the first 48 hours and keeping the head elevated while resting are commonly advised.

Step 8: First Week Recovery

Bruising of the lower eyelids usually takes around 10 days to settle, while the upper eyelids generally settle somewhat quicker. Bruising can be covered with make-up. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and contact sports are usually avoided during this time.

Tip: Working from home during this period is an option for people who are uncomfortable with visible bruising in public.

Step 9: Suture Removal

Sutures usually remain in place for around nine to twelve days. After this, a return visit to the doctor's office is needed to have them removed. This is usually a short appointment, and sensations differ from person to person.

Tip: Visitors can clarify before leaving Istanbul whether suture removal happens there or with a doctor at home.

Step 10: Ongoing Recovery and Follow-up

Subtle swelling can persist for up to three months. Upper eyelid numbness is common and usually resolves on its own over two to four months. Many people return to work and normal activities within a week or two, although certain activities may be avoided for up to a month. Following the doctor's post-surgery instructions matters for healing.

Tip: Follow-up appointments with a doctor in the home country can be arranged to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overlooking that eyelid surgery has risks like any surgery. Dry eye is one of the more common complications, particularly after combined upper and lower surgery. Many cases resolve with conservative management. The personal risk of dry eye is worth discussing with the surgeon before deciding.
• Not checking the surgeon's credentials. The surgeon's licence and qualifications can be checked in the official register of the Turkish health authority, rather than relying on clinic marketing alone.
• Expecting results immediately. Subtle swelling can persist for up to three months. Final results take time, and bruising can last weeks.
• Resuming normal activities too quickly. Certain activities may need to be avoided for up to a month. The doctor advises on movements to avoid during recovery, such as bending, leaning over and lifting, as well as swimming and athletics.
• Not arranging follow-up care at home before surgery. A doctor in the home country can monitor recovery and address complications after return.
• Not informing the surgeon about blood-thinning medications or supplements. Patients on such medications usually coordinate with their primary care doctor before surgery, as they can increase bruising.
• Not discussing realistic outcomes. An eyelid lift does not change dark circles or fine lines and wrinkles around the eye.

Tickets, Payment and Booking

Many clinics in Istanbul offer eyelid lift procedures to international patients. Booking typically involves an initial consultation (often by photo or video), medical evaluation, and surgery scheduling.

Before booking:

• Verify the clinic is accredited and the surgeon is licensed with the Turkish Ministry of Health
• Ask for the surgeon’s qualifications, experience and licence number
• Request a written treatment plan, including the exact procedure, risks and follow-up schedule
• Check what is included in the quoted price (surgery, anesthesia, hospital, sutures, medications, follow-up appointments)
• Ask about payment methods and whether foreign visitors can use international cards or transfers
• Confirm post-operative follow-up options (remote check-ins or in-person visits before you leave Istanbul)

Warning: Avoid clinics that make promises about results, use absolute terms about comfort or risk, or pressure you to decide quickly. Many travel medicine facilitators and booking sites exist; use official clinic websites to verify information directly.

Good to know

• Consider the timing of your trip carefully. Book surgery for the beginning of your stay in Istanbul, not at the end. This allows you a few days to rest before travelling home, and gives you time to attend any urgent follow-up appointments if needed.
• Bring sunglasses and a hat with a brim. Even mild sun exposure during early recovery can darken bruises and scars. Protect your eyes for at least the first week.
• Arrange transport and accommodation near the clinic. You will not be able to drive after surgery due to sedation and blurred vision. Some clinics include transfer services; confirm this before booking.
• Do not expect to look 'normal' for at least a week. Bruising is visible and obvious to others. If you plan to return to work or social activities, budget at least 10–14 days of healing.
• Have lubricating eye drops and prescribed medications delivered to your hotel in advance. Turkish pharmacies may not stock your exact brand or may require a local prescription.
• Take photos of your eyes before surgery. Compare them to photos one week and three months later. This helps you recognize subtle improvements you might otherwise miss as swelling resolves slowly.

General information we collected from public sources, not medical advice. We are not doctors. Please talk to a licensed doctor before you decide anything about your health.

Explore Nearby Eyelid Lift

Sights near Eyelid Lift

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  Galata Tower · typical visit: 1–2 hours4 min on foot from Şişhane metro, Open daily 08:30–23:00
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  Topkapi Palace · typical visit: 3–4 hours without Harem; 4–5 hours with Harem15 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open 09:00–18:30, closed Tue
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  Basilica Cistern · typical visit: 1 hour4 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open daily 09:00–18:30
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  Galata Bridge · typical visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour10 min on foot from Haliç metro, Open 24 hours

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FAQ

How long do results last?

Results often last for many years, though ageing continues after surgery. Some patients consider another procedure after 10 to 15 years. This varies with how a person ages and cares for their skin, and results differ from person to person.

Can upper and lower eyelids be done at once?

Combined upper and lower eyelid surgery is common and can be performed in one session. It follows the longer lower eyelid timeline and adds a few days to the visible recovery period. Recovery is longer than for upper eyelids alone.

Will there be visible scars?

The incision is placed within the natural eyelid crease, so the scar is usually less visible once healed. For lower eyelids done via the transconjunctival approach, there is usually no external scar. Scars usually fade over several months, and healing differs from person to person.

When can makeup or contact lenses be worn again?

The surgeon advises on specific timing. Eye makeup and contact lenses are usually avoided for at least the first week. Many people resume both after sutures are removed and any irritation has resolved, though lubricating drops may still be needed.

Is the procedure uncomfortable?

Blepharoplasty is usually performed under local anaesthetic with sedation for shorter procedures, or general anaesthetic for longer ones. Patients may feel pressure during surgery. Some mild discomfort is common afterwards and is managed as the doctor advises. Sensations differ from person to person.

Can a patient fly home the same day?

Many clinics perform eyelid lifts as a day case with no overnight hospital stay. Flying on the same day is usually not advised because of sedation and post-operative restrictions. The surgeon advises on when flying is medically appropriate, often after at least 24–48 hours.

What if complications appear after returning home?

Sudden vision changes, severe pain, significant fresh bleeding, rapidly growing swelling or signs of infection need urgent medical care. The clinic can be contacted to report the problem. The discharge summary can be shown to a home country doctor, who can help manage complications or arrange local care.

Who is eyelid surgery suitable for?

Suitability depends on eye health, skin condition, age, medications and personal goals. For people with dry eyes, less tissue may be removed to avoid worsening symptoms. Only a licensed doctor can determine suitability after a thorough examination.

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