Blepharoplasty in Istanbul
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, removes or repositions excess skin and fat from the upper or lower eyelids to give a fresher, more rested look. Dr. Semih Yıldız plans each operation while protecting eyelid function.
AT A GLANCE
Anaesthesia: Local with sedation or general
Operation time: 1–2 hours
Hospital stay: Same day
Stay in Istanbul: About 6 days
Back to work: 7–10 days
Final result: 2–3 months
What is blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is surgery to the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids or both. Upper eyelid surgery removes excess skin and fat that make the eyes look heavy or tired, while lower eyelid surgery treats under-eye bags and puffiness.
A natural result keeps the character of your eyes. Eyelid function, the position of the brows and the health of the eye surface are all assessed before surgery.
Who is a good candidate?
- Healthy adults with excess upper eyelid skin or hooded eyelids
- People with lower eyelid bags or puffiness that make them look tired
- Patients whose heavy upper eyelids affect their field of vision
- Anyone with realistic expectations who can stop smoking before and after surgery
Dry eye, thyroid eye disease, previous eye surgery and a low brow position need careful assessment, as they can change the treatment plan.
Blepharoplasty techniques
The technique depends on whether the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids or both need treatment, and on the quality of the skin and fat.
Upper blepharoplasty
Excess skin and, when needed, fat are removed through an incision hidden in the natural crease of the upper eyelid.
Lower blepharoplasty
Under-eye bags are treated through an incision just below the lash line, which also allows excess skin to be removed.
Transconjunctival blepharoplasty
Fat is removed or repositioned through an incision inside the lower eyelid, leaving no visible scar. It suits patients without excess skin.
Combined eyelid surgery
Upper and lower eyelids can be treated in the same operation, and eyelid surgery can be combined with a brow lift or temporal lift.
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How the operation is performed
- Planning: your photos, medical history and eye health are reviewed and the plan is agreed before the day of surgery.
- Marking: the amount of skin to be removed is precisely marked while you are sitting upright.
- Anaesthesia: the operation is performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia and usually takes 1–2 hours.
- Correction: excess skin is removed and fat is removed or repositioned through the planned incisions.
- Closing: the incisions are closed with fine stitches.
- Aftercare: most patients go to their hotel on the same day with cold compresses and eye drops.
Recovery timeline
First 2–3 days: Swelling and bruising peak. Keep your head elevated and use cold compresses; discomfort is usually mild.
Around day 5–6: The stitches are removed and most patients are cleared to fly home.
Days 7–10: Most patients return to desk work; light make-up can usually be used after about 10 days.
Weeks 2–3: Most of the bruising has faded and normal activities resume.
Month 1: Most of the swelling has settled and the eyes look fresher and more open.
Months 2–3: The final result appears and the scars continue to fade.
How to prepare
- Stop smoking and nicotine products at least 4 weeks before and after surgery.
- Tell us about all medicines and supplements; blood thinners, aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil and some herbal products may need to be paused.
- Tell us about dry eye, thyroid problems, glaucoma or previous eye surgery.
- Send clear front and side photos of your eyes, with your eyes open and closed, for the online assessment.
- Plan about 6 days in Istanbul and 7–10 days away from work.
Risks and possible complications
Every operation carries risk. Possible complications of blepharoplasty include:
- Bleeding or infection
- Dry or irritated eyes
- Temporary blurred vision
- Asymmetry
- Visible scars
- Difficulty closing the eyes or changes in lower eyelid position
- The need for revision surgery
Serious injury to the eye is very rare. Benefits, limitations and alternatives are discussed in detail during your consultation and informed consent.
Your blepharoplasty journey in Istanbul
Before you travel
Share your photos and medical history for an online consultation. You receive a personalised plan and a written quotation before booking.
Surgery day
After pre-operative tests and a face-to-face consultation with Dr. Semih Yıldız, the incision lines are marked and the operation takes place in hospital.
Recovery in Istanbul
You recover at your hotel and return for check-ups. The stitches are usually removed around day 5–6, before your flight home.
Back home
Follow-up continues remotely through photos and video calls, so your progress is monitored after you return home.
Blepharoplasty cost in Istanbul
Blepharoplasty prices in Turkey start from €940 for upper eyelid surgery under local anaesthesia (general anaesthesia adds up to €700), €1,320 for lower eyelid surgery and €1,830 for upper and lower eyelid surgery together. To get Dr. Semih Yıldız’s personal price, request a free online assessment. You receive a written quotation with clear package details.
The surgery price includes hospital fees, anaesthesia, implants where required for the procedure, follow-up checks, medications and any required compression garments. Hotel accommodation and transfers are not included.
Frequently asked questions
How much does blepharoplasty in Istanbul cost?
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In Turkey, prices start from €940 for upper eyelid surgery under local anaesthesia (general anaesthesia adds up to €700), €1,320 for lower eyelid surgery and €1,830 for upper and lower eyelid surgery together. To get Dr. Semih Yıldız’s personal price, request a free online assessment.
How long should I stay in Istanbul?
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Most international patients stay about 6 days, so the stitches can be removed before the flight home.
Is blepharoplasty painful?
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Most patients describe a feeling of tightness and mild discomfort rather than pain. It is usually well controlled with simple painkillers.
When can I go back to work?
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Most people return to desk work after 7–10 days, once the bruising has faded enough.
Will I have visible scars?
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Upper eyelid scars are hidden in the natural crease, and lower eyelid scars sit just below the lashes or inside the eyelid. They usually fade well.
Can blepharoplasty improve my vision?
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When heavy upper eyelid skin restricts the field of vision, removing it may help. A functional benefit needs examination.
When can I wear contact lenses and make-up?
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Contact lenses and eye make-up are usually avoided for about 2 weeks, or until your surgeon confirms it is safe.
How long do the results last?
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Results are long-lasting, although natural ageing continues. Many patients enjoy the result for many years.
Can blepharoplasty be combined with other procedures?
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Yes, eyelid surgery is often combined with a brow lift, temporal lift or facelift. Combining procedures is decided after assessment.
This page provides general information and does not replace a medical examination.
Related guides
Upper or Lower Blepharoplasty: Which One Do You Need?