Is Upper Blepharoplasty Painful?

Upper blepharoplasty is performed under local anaesthetic, sedation or general anaesthesia to manage pain during the procedure. Some patients are aware of pressure or movement, and experiences vary. As you recover, you may feel some tightness, soreness, swelling, and bruising around your eyes. You are highly encouraged to take the prescribed painkillers.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

You will begin with a consultation to discuss your goals and design your treatment plan, followed by a second pre-operative visit to review your health and surgical plan. All surgery carries risks, and some patients may need further treatment or revision surgery. You will need a series of follow-up appointments to ensure you heal properly.

How Long Until I See Results?

Improvements are visible immediately after your surgery, even though some swelling and bruising will be present. You’ll notice significant improvements over the following 2-3 weeks, with full results completely resolving at around 3-6 months.

Where Is the Upper Blepharoplasty Scar?

The incision is generally placed within the natural upper-eyelid crease and may extend slightly towards the outer corner where additional skin needs to be removed. The scar is usually pink during early healing and generally fades over time, but its final visibility varies between patients. No surgical scar can be guaranteed to be invisible. Scar position and length depend on the eyelid anatomy and the amount of skin being treated.

Will Upper Blepharoplasty Change the Shape of My Eyes?

The aim is to reduce excess upper-eyelid tissue while preserving the natural eyelid position and eye closure. Some change in the visible eyelid contour is expected, but the operation is not intended to create a completely different eye shape.

How Long Do Swelling and Bruising Last After Upper Eyelid Surgery?

Swelling and bruising are usually most noticeable during the first week and commonly improve over the following one to two weeks. Mild swelling and scar changes may continue longer, and recovery varies by patient.

When Can I Exercise Again After My Upper Blepharoplasty?

You are encouraged to go on short walks during the first few days to promote healthy blood flow. You may gradually work your way up to intense exercise and heavy lifting over several weeks. Dr Barker will monitor your progress at each follow-up appointment and update you on when you can return to certain activities.

How Soon Can I Travel After Upper Blepharoplasty?

You can likely travel within the first 1-2 weeks, but you should stay within the Surry Hills, Sydney, and New South Wales area. Dr Barker will help you create a recovery schedule to keep you on a safe path to recovery and travel.

How Do I Find the Best Upper Blepharoplasty Plastic Surgeon in New South Wales, Australia?

When looking for a plastic surgeon to perform your upper blepharoplasty, you should look beyond before-and-after photos. The best plastic surgeons are specialists in their field who have completed years of education, rigorous training, and exams. Their approach should focus on the patient’s unique preferences rather than chasing trending aesthetics. Several accredited organisations verify Dr Barker, reflecting his dedication to upholding the highest standards of safety and quality. His memberships and professional societies include: Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) Member, Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons Member, Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons

How Do I Know Whether I Need Upper Blepharoplasty or a Brow Lift?

Upper blepharoplasty treats excess eyelid skin, while a brow lift changes eyebrow position. Some patients have features of both. Examining the eyelids, eyebrows, and forehead movement helps determine which area contributes most to the concern.

Can Upper Blepharoplasty Improve Vision?

Upper eyelid surgery may improve the upper visual field when redundant skin causes a demonstrated visual impairment. Not every patient with hooded eyelids has functional visual obstruction, and cosmetic upper blepharoplasty should not be presented as vision-correcting surgery. Where functional impairment is suspected, clinical photographs and other assessment or documentation may be required. Medicare considers the applicable requirements separately from the cosmetic reasons a patient may be seeking surgery.

Upper Blepharoplasty Plastic Surgeon Wollongong & Sydney

Upper eyelids can change with ageing, skin quality, sun exposure, and inherited anatomy. Excess skin may fold over the eyelid crease, make the eyelids feel heavy or, in some patients, interfere with the upper field of vision.

Upper Eyelid Surgery Introduction

Refresh Tired Eyes for a Brighter, More Rested Appearance

Upper blepharoplasty, also called upper eyelid surgery, removes a measured amount of skin and, where appropriate, adjusts underlying tissue. Dr Anthony Barker offers upper blepharoplasty consultations for patients from Sydney, Wollongong and surrounding areas.

Risks and Considerations

What is Upper Blepharoplasty?

Upper blepharoplasty reshapes the upper eyelid by removing excess skin through an incision placed within the natural eyelid crease. A small amount of protruding fat or muscle may also be addressed when clinically appropriate, but this is not required for every patient.

The operation is planned conservatively to preserve eyelid closure and function. It changes the upper eyelid but does not directly correct lower-eyelid bags, dark circles, fine skin texture or a low eyebrow position.

Combining Upper Blepharoplasty with Other Procedures

Upper blepharoplasty may be considered with lower-eyelid surgery, brow surgery or another facial procedure when the concerns are related and the combination is appropriate. Each area is assessed separately; combining procedures is not necessary for every patient.

Facial fat grafting involves removing fat from another area of the body by liposuction and injecting it into selected areas of the face where volume loss contributes to the concern. It is not suitable for every patient and is considered only when the assessment shows that adding volume may help. Some transferred fat does not survive, so outcomes vary, and patients may need more than one treatment. Fat grafting carries additional risks, including lumps or irregularities, asymmetry, fat reabsorption and problems at the area where fat is removed. In rare cases, injected fat can enter a blood vessel and cause serious complications, including vision loss or stroke.

What Can Upper Eyelid Surgery Address?

Excess upper-eyelid skin that folds over the eyelid crease
A heavy or hooded upper-eyelid appearance
Uneven upper-eyelid skin folds where correction is appropriate
Upper visual-field obstruction caused by excess eyelid skin in eligible patients
Protruding upper-eyelid fat where present.

Upper blepharoplasty cannot guarantee perfect symmetry or stop future ageing. The eyelids, eyebrows and surrounding tissues continue to change over time.

Dr Barker’s Qualifications and Experience

He is affiliated with two hospitals, including Macquarie University Hospital and Wollongong Private Hospital.
He is a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons and the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.
He is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS)
He achieved his BA in Biomedical Engineering at Harvard in 2001 and completed his Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery at the University of Sydney in 2006 He offers high-quality care and meticulous attention to detail during upper blepharoplasty, using advanced techniques for minimal scarring and optimal results.

Upper Blepharoplasty

Quick Facts

Surgery Time:

45 to 90 minutes

Price:

Call for Information

Recovery:

Many patients return to light activities within 1–2 weeks; complete healing takes several months and varies

Results:

The eyelid contour continues to settle over 3–6 months or longer; outcomes and how long they last vary between patients

Who Are the Best Candidates for Upper Blepharoplasty?

Upper blepharoplasty can help a wide range of people. Since the procedure is surgical, candidates can have any skin tone or complexion. For upper blepharoplasty in Surry Hills and New South Wales, Sydney, they should meet the following criteria:

Excess skin on the upper eyelids that sags or droops
Notice that their eyes look or feel tired even after they have slept well
Their hooded eyelids make it harder to see
Struggle with applying makeup
Want natural-looking results
Have good overall health
Their expectations are reasonable

What Are the Benefits of Upper Blepharoplasty?

For appropriately assessed patients, upper blepharoplasty may offer the following benefits while maintaining the unique character of their eyes:

Improvement in the upper field of vision where excess eyelid skin has been shown to obstruct it
Removal of sagging, drooping skin
Reduced feeling of upper-eyelid heaviness in some patients
Easier time applying makeup
More youthful, alert appearance
Enhanced facial symmetry and balanced proportions
Long-lasting results
Boost in confidence

Not every patient with hooded eyelids has a functional visual obstruction, and cosmetic upper blepharoplasty is not vision-correcting surgery.

Dr Anthony Barker in blue scrubs consulting with patient in medical office - in New South Wales, Australia

Your Consultation with Dr Barker

The consultation covers what has changed, whether the concern is cosmetic or functional and any symptoms such as dryness, irritation or visual obstruction. Dr Barker will review eye health, previous eye surgery, medicines, contact-lens use and relevant medical conditions.

The examination considers upper-eyelid skin, fat, muscle, eyelid position, symmetry, brow position and the ability to close the eyes. An optometrist or ophthalmologist may recommend further assessment if you have visual symptoms, eye disease, or another finding that requires investigation.

Preparing for Upper Eyelid Surgery

If you decide to proceed, the practice will provide instructions tailored to your procedure and health. These may include reviewing medicines and supplements, discussing smoking or nicotine use, arranging transport and preparing cold compresses and extra pillows for early recovery.

Do not stop blood-thinning or other prescribed medication unless advised by the appropriate prescribing practitioner in consultation with the surgical or anaesthetic team.

What Happens On the Day of Upper Blepharoplasty?

The anaesthetic used depends on the planned procedure and whether upper blepharoplasty is performed alone or with another operation. Local anaesthetic, sedation or general anaesthesia may be considered, and the recommended approach will be explained before surgery.

Dr Barker marks the planned skin removal before the procedure. The incision is made in the upper-eyelid crease, excess skin is removed, and other tissue is adjusted only where required. The incision is then closed with fine sutures.

Upper blepharoplasty is usually completed as a day procedure. Discharge arrangements, transport and overnight support requirements depend on the anaesthetic used and any procedures performed at the same time.

Dr Anthony Barker in scrubs and glasses speaking with healthcare colleague in medical setting - in New South Wales, Australia

White ethereal smoke wisps dispersing against light background creating abstract atmospheric pattern

Recovery After Upper Eyelid Surgery

Your Guide to Post- Upper Eyelid Surgery Care

Swelling, bruising, tightness, watering, dryness and temporary visual blurring can occur during early recovery. These symptoms are often most noticeable during the first week and then gradually improve. Cold compresses and head elevation may be recommended.

Many patients return to light daily activities within one to two weeks, although bruising may still be visible. Heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, contact lenses and eye makeup may be restricted for a period determined by healing progress. The eyelid contour and scars continue to settle over several months.

Risks and Possible Complications of Upper Blepharoplasty

All surgery carries risks. Relevant considerations include bleeding (including, rarely, bleeding behind the eye), infection, anaesthetic complications, corneal injury, dry or irritated eyes (which can be persistent), difficulty closing the eyelids, asymmetry, altered sensation, visible scarring, changes in eyelid position, temporary or persistent visual disturbance and the possibility of further treatment or surgery. Serious eye complications are rare but can have permanent consequences, as explained below.

Bleeding behind the eye (retrobulbar haemorrhage) is a rare but serious complication that usually occurs within the first hours or days after surgery. It can increase pressure on the eye and optic nerve and requires emergency treatment.

Upper blepharoplasty can rarely result in permanent visual impairment. Blindness is extremely rare but can occur, most often from bleeding behind the eye.

The surface of the eye (cornea) can be scratched or irritated during or after surgery. Difficulty closing the eyes fully, particularly in the early weeks, can expose the cornea and contribute to dryness, irritation or, rarely, corneal injury that needs treatment.

6 Tips for Recovery From Upper Blepharoplasty

Dr Barker understands that recovery can feel overwhelming at first. He aims to make it as smooth as possible, providing clear, specific instructions to help you feel more comfortable. Here are some of the instructions he may provide:

Use a couple of extra pillows to elevate your head while resting and sleeping to minimise swelling
Apply cold compresses on and off for the first 1-2 days
Do not engage in strenuous activities or heavy lifting until approved
Maintain your incision sites by using cleaning and scar-healing products
Wear sunglasses when you go outside
Return to our office for each subsequent follow-up appointment

How Much Does Upper Blepharoplasty Cost in Sydney?

The cost depends on the extent of upper-eyelid surgery, the anaesthetic and facility required and whether another procedure is performed at the same time. Surgeon, facility or hospital and anaesthetic fees may be charged separately. An itemised quotation is provided after consultation.

A Medicare rebate may apply when upper-eyelid reduction meets the requirements of the relevant MBS item, including an eligible clinical indication and required documentation. If an eligible item applies, private health insurance may also contribute depending on the policy, waiting periods and exclusions. Cosmetic eyelid surgery does not automatically qualify.

Can Medicare or Private Health Insurance Contribute to Upper Blepharoplasty?

Medicare may contribute when the requirements of the relevant MBS item are met, such as an eligible functional or medical indication supported by the required documentation. Private health insurance cover depends on the patient’s policy and whether an eligible item applies. Dr Barker’s team can advise whether an item may be relevant after assessment, but eligibility and benefits cannot be guaranteed.

Dr Anthony Barker in navy suit smiling with arms crossed against blue background

Arrange An Upper Blepharoplasty Consultation

If you are considering upper eyelid surgery, contact Dr Barker’s team to arrange a consultation. The practice welcomes patients from Sydney, Wollongong and surrounding areas.

Why Choose Dr Anthony Barker?

Dr Anthony Barker is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon and Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). He performs aesthetic and reconstructive surgery and is a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons and the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.

His approach to upper blepharoplasty includes assessing both eyelid skin and brow position, with attention to eyelid function, eye closure, and conservative tissue removal.

Dr Anthony Barker standing in operating room with surgical lights and medical equipment in background - in New South Wales, Australia

Sources

Asapsadmin. (2018, January 15). Are your eyelids making you look tired and older than you are? ASAPS. https://aestheticplasticsurgeons.org.au/blepharoplasty-eyelid-surgery/eyelid-surgery-helps-reduce-tired-look/
Cadence.Support. (2025, October 28). Eyelid reduction surgery. Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. https://plasticsurgery.org.au/procedures/surgical-procedures/eyelid-reduction-surgery/

Upper Blepharoplasty FAQ’S

Upper blepharoplasty is performed under local anaesthetic, sedation or general anaesthesia to manage pain during the procedure. Some patients are aware of pressure or movement, and experiences vary. As you recover, you may feel some tightness, soreness, swelling, and bruising around your eyes. You are highly encouraged to take the prescribed painkillers.
The incision is generally placed within the natural upper-eyelid crease and may extend slightly towards the outer corner where additional skin needs to be removed. The scar is usually pink during early healing and generally fades over time, but its final visibility varies between patients.

No surgical scar can be guaranteed to be invisible. Scar position and length depend on the eyelid anatomy and the amount of skin being treated.
When looking for a plastic surgeon to perform your upper blepharoplasty, you should look beyond before-and-after photos. The best plastic surgeons are specialists in their field who have completed years of education, rigorous training, and exams. Their approach should focus on the patient’s unique preferences rather than chasing trending aesthetics.

Several accredited organisations verify Dr Barker, reflecting his dedication to upholding the highest standards of safety and quality. His memberships and professional societies include:
- Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS)
- Member, Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Member, Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
Upper eyelid surgery may improve the upper visual field when redundant skin causes a demonstrated visual impairment. Not every patient with hooded eyelids has functional visual obstruction, and cosmetic upper blepharoplasty should not be presented as vision-correcting surgery.

Where functional impairment is suspected, clinical photographs and other assessment or documentation may be required. Medicare considers the applicable requirements separately from the cosmetic reasons a patient may be seeking surgery.

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