Blepharoplasty

Eyelid blepharoplasty is one of the most sought-after cosmetic surgeries worldwide, offering a refreshed, youthful and harmonious appearance. The procedure removes excess skin and localised fat pockets around the eyes, corrects asymmetries and — in some cases — even improves the patient’s field of vision.

What is blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty rejuvenates the area around the eyes by addressing signs of ageing such as sagging, puffiness and wrinkles. Depending on your needs, Dr. Paulo Michels performs it on the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both.

The goal is never to alter your natural expression — it is to restore vitality and balance to the face through subtle yet transformative refinement.

Upper or lower — which do I need?

Upper blepharoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids, which can cause heaviness or drooping and may partially obstruct vision. The surgery refines the contour of the eyes, reduces wrinkles in the upper region and gives a rejuvenated, more open look.

Lower blepharoplasty treats the lower eyelid area, where fat pockets and excess skin create a tired or aged appearance. Through delicate adjustments, the redundant tissue is removed and the transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek is smoothed — resulting in a refreshed, rested expression.

Can it be done without scars?

In mild cases of eyelid ageing, scarless blepharoplasty (the transconjunctival technique) can be performed. This approach uses internal incisions, leaving no visible external scars — ideal for younger patients or those with early puffiness and minimal skin excess.

When the eyelid has significant laxity or excessive skin, however, traditional surgical blepharoplasty remains the most effective and lasting solution.

When is blepharoplasty recommended?

Blepharoplasty is typically recommended between the ages of 35 and 50, when skin elasticity begins to decline and eyelid wrinkles become more evident. Younger individuals who experience premature eyelid ageing, or who are genetically predisposed to puffiness, can also benefit. For milder cases, non-surgical blepharoplasty can be an option to help slow the progression of ageing in the eyelid area.

How is the surgery performed?

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the extent of the correction and your preference. Surgery typically lasts one to two hours, and patients are discharged the same day.

• In upper blepharoplasty, a fine incision is made along the natural eyelid crease, allowing precise removal of excess skin and fat.
• In lower blepharoplasty, the incision is placed just below the lash line or internally, depending on the surgical plan.

All sutures are meticulously placed to ensure minimal scarring and optimal healing.

What is the recovery like?

Sutures are usually removed between 3 and 7 days after surgery, depending on the individual case. Mild swelling and bruising are common during the first week and gradually subside. After around 20 days, healing becomes more apparent and most patients can resume social activities.

Complete healing takes around three months — although for patients over 60, smokers or those with certain health conditions, recovery may extend to up to one year.

How long do the results last?

Results can last between 10 and 15 years, depending on lifestyle, skin type, genetics and post-operative care. Because ageing continues naturally, some patients consider touch-up treatments after several years. Complementary non-surgical treatments — botulinum toxin, dermal fillers, plasma jet or laser therapies — can help maintain the rejuvenated result for longer.

Your consultation

To determine the most suitable eyelid surgery for your case, schedule a consultation with Dr. Paulo Michels. Through detailed evaluation and advanced surgical techniques, he provides natural and lasting rejuvenation — restoring youthfulness to the eyes and harmony to the face.