What an Eyelid Lift Can Achieve
As we age, the skin around the eyes gradually loses elasticity and structural support, becoming thinner and more lax. This can result in hooding of the upper eyelids and prominence of underlying fat, which may contribute to a tired or heavy appearance and in some cases interfere with vision.
An upper eyelid lift, also known as upper blepharoplasty, addresses these concerns by removing excess skin and, where appropriate, conservatively managing underlying fat. The aim of surgery is to rejuvenate the periorbital region while preserving the natural character and expression of the eyes, with scars carefully concealed within the natural eyelid crease.
Your Surgical Journey
Your surgical journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr Collins at The Surgery. This allows a detailed assessment of your anatomy and provides an opportunity to discuss your concerns and expectations and to develop a surgical plan tailored specifically to you.
An upper eyelid lift is commonly performed at The Surgery under local anaesthetic, which many patients find appealing due to the quicker recovery and avoidance of general anaesthesia. In selected cases, surgery may also be performed under general anaesthetic. Sutures are typically removed after five to seven days.
Recovery and Aftercare
Swelling and bruising are expected in the early post-operative period and gradually settle over the first one to two weeks. Cold compresses and LED light therapy may be recommended, and sleeping with your head slightly elevated can also be beneficial.
Return to work depends on the nature of your role. Many patients choose to allow around one week away from work, while those able to work from home may feel comfortable returning sooner. Gentle low-impact activity can usually be resumed after two weeks, while strenuous exercise should be avoided for four to six weeks to support optimal healing.
Is an Upper Eyelid Lift Right for You?
You may be suitable for an upper eyelid lift if your concerns include excess upper eyelid skin, hooding, a tired appearance or drooping eyelid skin that interferes with your vision.
A consultation with Dr Collins allows for a personalised assessment of your eyelid anatomy, with a surgical plan tailored to achieve a natural, refreshed result while maintaining the unique character of your eyes.
Eyelid lift in Dunedin with Dr Anne Collins
Frequently Asked Questions
An upper eyelid lift, also known as upper blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to address excess skin of the upper eyelids and, where appropriate, conservatively manage underlying fat. The procedure aims to rejuvenate the periorbital region and, in some cases, improve vision where excess skin is obstructing the visual field.
Patients commonly consider an upper eyelid lift due to hooding of the upper eyelids, a tired or heavy appearance or difficulty applying makeup. In some individuals, excess upper eyelid skin can interfere with vision, prompting functional as well as aesthetic concerns.
Upper eyelid lift surgery is commonly performed at The Surgery under local anaesthetic. The procedure involves precise removal of excess skin from the upper eyelids. Where indicated, underlying fat may also be conservatively managed. Incisions are carefully placed within the natural eyelid creases so that scars are well concealed once healed.
Preparing well is an important part of your surgical journey and plays a key role in optimising both healing and aesthetic outcomes. When it comes to an eyelid lift, skin quality forms the foundation on which surgical results sit. Medical-grade, evidence-based skincare helps preserve skin barrier function, enhance collagen signalling and strengthen antioxidant resilience. Good skin preparation prior to surgery may help reduce inflammation and contribute to a smoother, more predictable recovery.
Patients must be nicotine-free prior to surgery, as nicotine significantly impairs wound healing and increases the risk of complications. This includes smoking, vaping and the use of nicotine replacement products.
No. Upper eyelid lift surgery is performed as a day procedure and you will be able to return home the same day.
In the early recovery period, it is important to minimise swelling and support healing. Cold compresses may be used as advised and LED light therapy can be beneficial in reducing inflammation. Sleeping with your head slightly elevated is recommended during the first few nights.
LED light therapy is routinely used at The Surgery to support recovery and skin health following surgical facial rejuvenation procedures.
The Healite LED system delivers specific wavelengths of light that support the skin’s natural recovery and rejuvenation processes. Yellow light is used to reduce inflammation and support early post-treatment recovery. Red light supports collagen and elastin production, improving skin tone and texture and enhancing overall skin vitality.
Two sessions of yellow LED light therapy are included as part of your aftercare at The Surgery. Treatment is non-invasive and involves no downtime.
Additional LED treatments, including red light therapy for skin rejuvenation, may be recommended as part of an ongoing skin health programme depending on individual needs.
Scarring is minimal and carefully planned. Incisions are placed within the natural upper eyelid creases and typically fade well over time.
Yes. Sutures are removed after five to seven days.
This depends on the nature of your role and your individual recovery. Many patients choose to allow around one week away from work due to visible bruising and swelling. Those able to work from home may feel comfortable returning sooner.
Driving is usually safe once you can comfortably perform all necessary manoeuvres without discomfort. This is often within a few days after surgery.
Gentle low-impact exercise can usually be resumed after two weeks. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for four to six weeks to support optimal healing.
Facial rejuvenation is not a single event but a continuum. High-performance, medical-grade skincare helps support surgical outcomes, promotes skin health and protects your long-term investment. Appropriate skincare and sun protection play an important role in maintaining healthy, resilient skin over time.
All surgery carries some degree of risk. Potential risks include pain, bleeding, infection, bruising and swelling, adverse scarring, dry or irritated eyes, temporary difficulty closing the eyes, temporary blurred vision and, very rarely, vision loss. There is also a small risk of requiring further surgery. These risks are discussed in detail during your consultation.
Yes. Surgical outcomes vary between individuals and depend on a number of factors including anatomy, tissue quality, healing response and adherence to post-operative care. Expected outcomes, risks and limitations are discussed in detail during your consultation as part of the informed consent process.
Online Enquiry
We would love to hear from you. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please complete your details below.