What is upper eyelid surgery?
Also known as upper blepharoplasty, this is one of the most commonly performed oculoplastic procedures. The upper eyelid is a remarkably complex structure. As we age, the skin of the upper eyelid loses elasticity, the orbital septum weakens, and fat pads can herniate forward, all contributing to the heavy, hooded appearance that many patients recognise in themselves.
Upper eyelid surgery addresses this directly: excess, redundant skin is carefully marked and removed along the natural crease of the eyelid, and herniated fat is conservatively sculpted or repositioned. The aim is an eyelid that looks open and refreshed rather than operated on.
For patients where excess skin physically obstructs the upper visual field — a condition called dermatochalasis — upper blepharoplasty can also be a functional procedure, addressing vision that has been progressively narrowed by overhanging eyelid tissue. This is documented with visual field testing before surgery.
Because Dr. Alia Issa is an oculoplastic surgeon, she brings a precise understanding of eyelid anatomy. Every incision is planned to preserve the natural crease and protect the levator muscle, with the scar placed within the natural fold of the eyelid.
Wondering whether upper eyelid surgery is right for you? Speak with Dr. Alia Issa.
Who is a candidate for upper eyelid surgery?
Dr. Issa will confirm your suitability at consultation, after a thorough assessment of your eyelid anatomy and vision. Candidates typically experience one or more of the following:
- Excess, overhanging skin on the upper eyelids that creates a heavy or tired appearance
- Upper visual field obstruction confirmed on visual field testing (functional blepharoplasty)
- Preaponeurotic fat herniation causing fullness or puffiness of the upper eyelid
- Redundant eyelid skin causing dermatitis or irritation in the eyelid fold
- Asymmetry of the upper eyelids, with or without associated ptosis
- Brow descent contributing to apparent upper eyelid fullness (Dr. Issa will assess whether brow lifting is also indicated)
Upper blepharoplasty is not appropriate for everyone — for example, patients with uncontrolled dry eye, significant corneal exposure, or certain conditions affecting wound healing. Dr. Issa will discuss the risk–benefit balance openly at consultation.
How the procedure works — before, during and after
Every case is individual. The following is a general outline of what patients can expect.
Dr. Issa examines your eyelids, assesses your vision and tear film, takes external photographs, and discusses your goals. If visual field obstruction is the indication, visual field testing is arranged. You receive a personalised surgical plan.
Surgery is performed under local anaesthesia as a day case — you arrive and go home the same day. An ellipse of excess skin is excised along the natural crease, any herniated fat is conservatively treated, and the incision is closed with fine sutures. The procedure typically takes 45–90 minutes for both eyelids.
Bruising and swelling generally peak around days 3–4 and then gradually resolve; ice compresses in the first 48–72 hours help. Sutures are usually removed at 7–10 days. Many patients feel comfortable returning to office-based work within 10–14 days. Strenuous activity is generally avoided for around 3 weeks.
The incision fades progressively over several months. By around 2–3 months the eyelids typically look settled, with the scar placed within the natural crease. Dr. Issa follows up personally throughout recovery.
Why choose an oculoplastic surgeon for upper eyelid surgery?
The eyelid sits directly over the eye, and surgery here affects tear film, eyelid closure and corneal protection — not only appearance. An oculoplastic surgeon is an ophthalmologist with additional subspecialty training in surgery of the eyelids and surrounding structures, which means the health of the eye is assessed alongside the aesthetic plan.
You can read more about the subspecialty in the Journal: “What is an oculoplastic surgeon and why does it matter”, and about the healing timeline in our week-by-week eyelid surgery recovery guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is upper eyelid surgery?
Upper eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids. It aims to restore a more open, alert appearance and can address peripheral vision that has been obstructed by heavy, overhanging eyelid tissue.
Am I a good candidate for upper eyelid surgery?
Candidates typically have redundant or lax upper eyelid skin (dermatochalasis), preaponeurotic fat herniation, or heavy eyelids causing visual symptoms or cosmetic concern. A consultation with Dr. Alia Issa will confirm whether surgery is appropriate for you.
How is upper eyelid surgery performed?
It is performed under local anaesthesia as a day case. An ellipse of excess skin is marked and removed along the natural eyelid crease, and any herniated fat is carefully sculpted. The incision is closed with fine sutures within the natural fold of the eyelid.
What is the recovery time?
Many patients return to daily activities within 7–14 days. Bruising and swelling generally peak around days 3–4 and settle over 2–3 weeks. Results usually settle at around 2–3 months. Individual recovery varies.
Will upper eyelid surgery leave a visible scar?
The incision is placed along the natural upper eyelid crease. Once healed — typically over several months — the scar generally blends into the natural fold of the eyelid. Healing varies between individuals.
Can it be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Upper blepharoplasty is frequently combined with brow lift surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or ptosis repair. Dr. Issa will assess whether a combined approach suits you at consultation.
Book your upper eyelid surgery consultation in Dubai with Dr. Alia Issa.