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Cosmetic eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) Q&As

Published by Bupa's health information team, June 2009.

Answers to questions about cosmetic eyelid surgery

This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.

 

I have dark circles under my eyes - will cosmetic eyelid surgery help?

Cosmetic eyelid surgery can help remove saggy skin under the eyes, but it can't remove the dark shadows or circles under your eyes.

Explanation

Saggy skin under the eyes is associated with age because as you grow older, the skin under your eyes becomes loose and the muscles slacken. Cosmetic surgery can improve sagginess, but will not change dark circles under your eyes.

Dark circles or shadows can be caused by tiredness. Poor nutrition can contribute to a pale, tired appearance. Dark eye rings also run in families, so if one of your parents has dark circles it's likely that you will have them too. You should try to get at least eight hours sleep a day, eat a healthy balanced diet and make sure you drink enough fluids. Speak to your GP if the dark circles don't improve or if you have any concerns.

Further information

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What qualifications should my surgeon have?

There is no single qualification for cosmetic surgery, so you will need to do your homework. Your GP is a good starting point.

Explanation

It's best to discuss any sort of surgery with your GP first. He or she may know of surgeons in your area and will also be able to pass on any important health information from your medical records to the surgeon. If you don't want to involve your GP, you can find a surgeon yourself, but it's important to get as much information as possible about your surgeon's qualifications and experience. Don't be guided by price, and be wary of advertising claims.

There is no central register of surgeons trained in cosmetic surgery. Doctors performing cosmetic surgery can be trained in any of the nine surgical specialities that are recognised by the Royal College of Surgeons. Most surgeons who do cosmetic surgery have been trained in plastic surgery. Doctors from other specialities such as ENT (ear nose and throat), ophthalmology (eyes) and dermatology (skin) may carry out some cosmetic surgery. Doctors with only basic medical qualifications should not do cosmetic surgery (basic qualifications are shown by the letters MBBS or MBChB).

Check that your surgeon is on the General Medical Council's specialist register - you can do this by looking at the General Medical Council's website.

Before deciding to go ahead with cosmetic surgery, you should have an initial consultation with your surgeon. Don't be afraid to ask the surgeon questions about his or her qualifications and experience. Ask whether he or she belongs to a professional association, such as the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons or the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.

Further information

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How much does cosmetic eyelid surgery cost?

Cosmetic surgery is not available on the NHS. The cost can vary from £2,000 to £6,000.

Explanation

The package usually covers all the costs of your treatment, including hospital charges, surgeon's and anaesthetist's fees, and your follow-up consultation. Costs vary from surgeon to surgeon and clinic to clinic. You will usually be given a fixed price after your initial consultation with a cosmetic surgeon.

You should never base your decision on costs alone when deciding where to be treated. You should always consider the quality of your surgeon and the quality of the hospital or clinic when making your decision.

Further information

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This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.

Publication date: June 2009