Also known as Upper Eyelid Surgery Consultation
What is an Upper Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Consultation?
An upper blepharoplasty consultation is an appointment with a specialist plastic surgeon or oculoplastic surgeon to assess concerns related to the upper eyelids. People may be referred for this consultation if they experience heaviness or overhanging upper eyelid skin, changes affecting comfort or function, or wish to understand the medical and structural reasons behind these concerns.
Only a qualified surgeon can determine whether upper eyelid surgery is appropriate after reviewing your anatomy, medical history, and expectations.
What is discussed during the consultation?
During the consultation, the surgeon will examine the upper eyelid area and discuss factors such as:
- The position and amount of upper eyelid skin
- Eyelid symmetry, shape, and movement
- Muscle and fat distribution
- Whether eyelid changes are affecting comfort, vision, or daily activities
- Whether conservative or non-surgical options should be considered
The primary goal is to assess your individual presentation and outline whether surgery is suitable, medically indicated, or not recommended.
Who may be referred for an upper blepharoplasty consultation?
A GP may refer a person for specialist assessment if they:
- Have sagging or overhanging upper eyelid skin
- Experience visual field obstruction related to excess tissue
- Have concerns about symmetry, heaviness, or eyelid function
- Seek advice regarding age-related changes in the eyelid area
A referral does not guarantee that surgery will be recommended.
Suitability is only confirmed after a clinical assessmen which must be determined through consultation with a registered specialist plastic or oculoplastic surgeon.
How is suitability determined?
Upper blepharoplasty is performed in a licensed medical facility under local or general anaesthesia. The suitability depends on a range of clinical factors, including:
- General health and medical history
- Eyelid anatomy and muscle function
- Skin quality and structural characteristics
- Eye health, including dryness and tear function
- Personal goals and expectations
Your surgeon will explain the reasons you may or may not be a candidate for surgery and clarify any limitations.
Not all individuals will be suitable for this procedure.
Understanding what the procedure involves
If the surgeon considers the procedure appropriate, they will provide a general explanation of how upper blepharoplasty is performed.
This commonly includes an overview of:
- Typical incision placement within the natural eyelid crease
- How skin, fat, or muscle may be adjusted if clinically indicated
- How the incision is usually closed
These discussions are provided to support informed consent and do not serve as an endorsement of the procedure.
Your surgeon will also explain alternative options or reasons the procedure may not be advisable.
Recovery and follow-up
If surgery is recommended, your surgeon will outline expected recovery and follow-up.
This may include information about:
- Expected swelling or bruising in the initial one to two weeks
- How to care for the eyelid area during healing
- When to avoid strenuous activity, makeup, or screen time
- Scheduled review appointments to monitor recovery
- Signs that require medical attention
Recovery varies from person to person, and personalised instructions will be provided.
Who can perform this treatment?
In Australia, upper blepharoplasty must be performed by a registered medical practitioner with formal training in eyelid surgery.
This includes:
- Specialist Plastic Surgeons
- Oculoplastic Surgeons
- Some other registered medical practitioners may perform the procedure if they have completed appropriate training and work within an accredited facility
Procedures must take place in an accredited medical facility with appropriate equipment, anaesthetic support, and postoperative care.
Patients are encouraged to:
- Confirm the practitioner’s qualifications
- Ask about their experience performing eyelid surgery
- Ensure the facility meets Australian accreditation standards
Is a referral required?
Yes. People considering elective cosmetic surgery need to follow a regulated pathway designed to support informed and safe decision making. Every person must complete the following steps before any procedure can be booked:
• A current GP referral is required before seeing a surgeon. This helps ensure your broader health needs are reviewed and that cosmetic surgery is the right pathway to explore.
• You must attend a minimum of two consultations with the surgeon who would perform the operation. At least one of these appointments must occur in person. These consultations allow time to review your medical history, assess suitability and discuss risks in detail.
• A cooling off period is required after the final consent appointment. This time is set aside for you to think carefully about the information provided, ask more questions if needed and decide whether to proceed.
These steps apply to all elective cosmetic surgery in Australia. They are in place to support careful consideration and protect patient safety.
What are the risks?
All surgery carries risks.
Your surgeon will explain risks in detail, which may include:
- Infection or bleeding
- Temporary dryness or irritation
- Difficulty fully closing the eyes during early recovery
- Visible scarring
- Asymmetry or contour differences
- The potential need for revision surgery
A full risk discussion forms part of informed consent.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Is upper blepharoplasty covered by Medicare?
A: If the procedure is medically indicated (e.g. visual obstruction), Medicare may cover part of the cost. Cosmetic procedures are generally not eligible. Your surgeon will assess and confirm eligibility.
Q: How long do results last?
A: Outcomes vary between individuals. Natural ageing will continue to affect the eyelid area over time.
Q: Will there be scars?
A: Incisions are usually placed along the natural eyelid crease. Your surgeon will discuss scar care and healing.
Q: Is the procedure painful?
A: Pain experiences vary. Your surgeon will explain what to expect after the procedure and discuss options for managing discomfort during recovery.
Q: When can I wear makeup again?
A: Most surgeons recommend avoiding makeup for at least two weeks, or until healing is sufficiently progressed.
