Blepharoplasty in Turkey is eyelid surgery that may remove excess skin, fat, or muscle from the upper or lower eyelids. The procedure typically takes 45 minutes to 2.5 hours, according to Moorfields Eye Hospital guidance.
Most people need around two weeks off work to recover, and bruising may take several weeks to fade. Turkey has become a common destination for international patients seeking this procedure at a lower cost than in the US or UK. Suture strips are usually removed within one week after surgery.
What Is Eyelid Surgery and What Does It Treat?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the eyelids by removing or repositioning skin, fat, and, in some cases, muscle to address signs of ageing around the eyes, as described in the Cleveland Clinic eyelid surgery overview.
This procedure can serve cosmetic or functional purposes. Cosmetically, it may reduce puffiness, smooth fine lines, or create a more alert appearance. Functionally, it can help when excess upper eyelid skin droops enough to affect peripheral vision.
According to the NHS, surgeons make incisions along natural eyelid creases for the upper lids, or just below the lashes or inside the lower lids for the lower lids. This placement helps reduce the visibility of scars as they heal.
Blepharoplasty does not stop the ageing process. Results can last for years, but skin continues to change over time, as noted in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons results overview.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Eyelid Lift Surgery?
Blepharoplasty is commonly requested by adults over 35, though younger individuals with hereditary eyelid concerns may also be suitable candidates.
You may be a good candidate for eyelid surgery if you have realistic expectations and are in generally good health. Common reasons people consider this procedure include drooping upper eyelids, under-eye bags, or puffiness that creates a tired appearance.
People who may need extra evaluation or should delay
Certain conditions may require additional assessment before surgery, or may mean postponing the procedure:
- Dry eye symptoms can worsen after blepharoplasty. If you already experience dry or irritated eyes, discuss this with your surgeon, as it may influence your treatment plan.
- Blood-thinning medications may increase bleeding risk. Your surgeon will likely ask about any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you take.
- Smoking can slow healing and increase the risk. Many surgeons recommend stopping smoking several weeks before and after surgery.
- Thyroid eye disease, glaucoma, or other eye conditions require careful evaluation before proceeding.
Ptosis repair vs blepharoplasty: understanding the difference
Ptosis refers to a drooping upper eyelid caused by weakness or damage to the muscle that lifts the lid, as explained in the AAPOS ptosis definition. Blepharoplasty removes excess skin but does not address muscle weakness.
If your eyelid droops because of a muscle problem rather than excess skin, you may need ptosis repair instead of, or in addition to, blepharoplasty. A proper evaluation by a qualified surgeon or ophthalmologist can determine which procedure, or combination of procedures, is appropriate for your situation.
Types of Blepharoplasty Surgery
Eyelid surgery can target the upper lids, lower lids, or both, depending on your concerns and anatomy.
Upper blepharoplasty
Upper eyelid surgery targets the area between the eyebrow and the eyelashes. The goal is typically to remove excess skin that may cause a hooded appearance, and sometimes to address fatty deposits that create puffiness.
According to the UCLA Health blepharoplasty description, surgeons make an incision along the natural eyelid crease, remove excess skin, fat, or muscle as needed, then close the incision. This placement helps the scar blend into the natural fold of the eyelid.
A blepharoplasty can be done under local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic, depending on the surgical plan.
Lower blepharoplasty
Lower eyelid addresses the area beneath the eye. Common concerns include:
- Under-eye bags
- Puffiness caused by fat deposits
- Loose skin
- Hollowing that creates a tired appearance. If volume loss is a concern, facial fat grafting can be discussed at the consultation.
According to the NHS, surgeons may make an incision just below the lashes (transcutaneous approach) or inside the lower lid (transconjunctival approach). They then reposition or remove fat, and sometimes remove a small amount of skin. In some cases, surgeons may also support the muscles and tendons to improve lid position.
With the transconjunctival approach, the incision is made inside the lower lid. This may be suitable when fat repositioning or removal is needed without significant excess skin.
Combined upper and lower eyelid surgery
Some patients choose to have both upper and lower eyelid surgery during the same session. This may be appropriate when both areas show signs of ageing or when a more comprehensive rejuvenation is desired.
Combining procedures means one recovery period rather than two. Still, it also means a longer surgery—typically closer to 2 to 2.5 hours rather than 45 minutes to 1 hour for a single area. Your surgeon can advise whether combining procedures is appropriate based on your individual situation.
How Upper Eyelid Surgery Is Performed
Upper blepharoplasty typically takes 45 minutes to 1 hour when performed alone.
- The surgeon marks the areas of excess skin while you are sitting upright, as eyelid tissue shifts when lying down.
- Local anaesthesia (or general anaesthesia in some cases) is administered.
- An incision is made along the natural crease of the upper eyelid.
- Excess skin is removed. Depending on your anatomy, the surgeon may also remove or reposition small amounts of fat or muscle.
- The incision is closed with fine sutures. According to the NHS, suture strips are usually removed up to one week after surgery.
How Lower Eyelid Surgery Is Performed
Lower blepharoplasty typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours and may use different incision approaches.
- The surgeon evaluates the under-eye area, noting fat deposits, skin laxity, and muscle tone.
- Local or general anaesthesia is administered.
- An incision is made either just below the lower lashes or inside the lower lid (no visible external scar with the internal approach).
- Fat may be repositioned or removed. If there is loose skin, a small amount may be trimmed. The surgeon may also tighten supporting structures if needed.
- The incision is closed with sutures. Internal incisions may use dissolvable sutures; external incisions typically require suture removal within one week.
How Blepharoplasty Procedure in Turkey (Video guide)
Blepharoplasty Recovery Timeline
According to the NHS, most people take about 2 weeks off work, though individual recovery times vary.
Timeframe What to Expect
Days 1–3 Swelling and bruising are common and may increase before improving. Keep your head elevated and apply cold compresses as directed. Eyes may feel tight; vision may be slightly blurry from ointment.
Days 4–7 Swelling typically begins to decrease. Sutures or suture strips are often removed around day 5–7. Many people feel comfortable going outdoors with sunglasses.
Week 2 Most people can return to work. Bruising may still be visible but is often concealable. Avoid eye makeup and contact lenses for at least two weeks.
Weeks 3–6 Bruising typically fades. Scars may feel tight but will continue to soften over the coming months. Final results become more apparent.
Return-to-activity milestones
- Driving: Usually safe around 5–10 days after surgery if your vision is not impaired, based on MSK guidance on driving after blepharoplasty.
- Contact lenses: Avoid for at least two weeks after surgery.
- Exercise: Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for at least two weeks. Light walking is typically fine within the first few days.
- Swimming: Avoid for at least four weeks to reduce infection risk.
When to seek medical attention
Contact your surgeon or seek medical care promptly if you experience:
- Bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure.
- Wound opening or separation
- Signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus, or foul smell)
- Severe pain not controlled by over-the-counter painkillers.
- Loss of vision or significant vision changes not explained by ointment blurring.
- Sudden increase in swelling, especially on one side
- High fever
- Difficulty breathing (rare—seek emergency care)
Eyelid Surgery Risks and Complications
Like all surgical procedures, blepharoplasty carries risks that you should understand before making a decision.
Common and expected effects
- Swelling and bruising: Expected after surgery; typically resolves within two to three weeks.
- Tightness and discomfort: The eyelid area may feel tight as it heals. Mild discomfort is normal and usually manageable with standard painkillers.
- Temporary dryness or irritation: Eyes may feel dry or gritty during recovery. Your surgeon may recommend lubricating eye drops.
- Sensitivity to light: Common in the first few weeks.
Less common complications
Rare risks may include, as outlined in Mayo Clinic, blepharoplasty risks:
- Infection and bleeding
- Dry or irritated eyes that persist beyond the normal healing period
- Difficulty closing the eyes or other eyelid problems
- Noticeable scarring
- Injury to eye muscles
- Skin discolouration
- Temporarily blurred vision, or rarely, more serious vision changes.
- Asymmetry or uneven eyelid positions
- Need for follow-up surgery.
If you have pre-existing dry eyes, thyroid conditions, or other eye problems, your risk profile may be different. Discuss your medical history thoroughly with your surgeon before proceeding.
Blepharoplasty Cost in Turkey (2026 Guide)
Eyelid surgery in Turkey typically costs $1,500 to $4,000. In the United States, costs vary widely; according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, average surgeon fees are around $3,359 for upper blepharoplasty and $3,876 for lower blepharoplasty (excluding anaesthesia, operating room facilities, and other related expenses).
Cost varies based on several factors: the surgeon’s experience, whether you have upper, lower, or combined surgery, the complexity of your case, and what is included in the quoted price.
Turkey price breakdown
Procedure Typical Price Range
Typical range (varies by scope and inclusions) $1,500–$4,000
What packages may include
Blepharoplasty package prices in Turkey can vary widely between clinics. Inclusions may cover:
- Surgeon fees
- Facility fees
- Anaesthesia
- Post-operative check-ups
- Accommodation
- Airport transfers
- Personal host or translator
Typically not included: Flights, travel insurance, medications beyond the immediate post-operative period, and any revision procedures.
Always confirm in writing what is covered before booking.
US cost comparison
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average surgeon’s fee in the United States is around $3,359 for upper blepharoplasty and $3,876 for lower blepharoplasty. This figure does not include anaesthesia, operating room facilities, or other related expenses.
Turkey’s lower cost reflects differences in operating expenses and currency value, not necessarily quality differences. Evaluate any clinic on its own merits rather than assuming lower cost means equal or better outcomes.
Choosing an Eyelid Surgeon in Istanbul
Selecting a qualified surgeon is one of the most important decisions in this process.
Key factors to evaluate
- Board certification: Verify the surgeon is certified by a recognised plastic surgery or oculoplastic surgery board.
- Professional memberships: Membership in associations such as the Turkish Society of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeons or international equivalents may indicate ongoing professional development.
- Specific eyelid surgery experience: Ask how many blepharoplasty procedures the surgeon performs annually.
- Before-and-after photos: Review photos of previous patients with similar concerns. Look for natural-looking results and consistency.
- Patient reviews: Read testimonials from previous patients, particularly international patients.
- Facility accreditation: Ask whether a recognised health authority accredits the clinic or hospital.
- Consultation quality: A good surgeon takes time to understand your goals, explain realistic outcomes, and answer questions without pressure.
- Aftercare support: Ask what post-operative support is provided, including how to reach the medical team after returning home.
- Clear pricing: Request a detailed written quote specifying exactly what is included.
- Communication: Ensure you can communicate clearly with your surgeon and clinic team.
FAQs About Eyelid Surgery in Turkey
Eyelid surgery in Turkey typically costs $1,500 to $4,000. At the same time, UK pricing varies widely and can be higher, depending on the clinic and what’s included. Turkish packages frequently include accommodation and transfers, whereas UK quotes usually cover surgery only. Always compare what each quote includes before deciding, and factor in travel costs when calculating your total budget.
Yes, blepharoplasty is commonly combined with brow lift surgery or facelifts during the same surgical session. Combined procedures mean one recovery period rather than two, though total procedure time is longer and depends on the surgical plan. If facelift surgery is part of the plan, your surgeon will explain sequencing and recovery priorities. Eyelid surgery alone is often quoted as taking under a few hours. Still, your surgeon will confirm the expected duration for a combined plan. Your surgeon can assess whether combining procedures is appropriate based on your health, anatomy, and goals.
If revision surgery is needed, it is typically not included in initial package pricing. Final swelling and scar tissue can take months to settle, so revision discussions are usually based on a longer-term assessment. Before booking, ask your clinic about their revision policy, any associated costs, and how follow-up care works for international patients.
Plan to stay long enough for an early post-operative review and, if needed, suture or strip removal, which may be within about a week after surgery. Flying too early may increase swelling due to changes in cabin pressure. Plan your trip to include at least one post-operative check-up before departure, and arrange remote follow-up options with your clinic.
Upper eyelid scars are placed in the natural crease and typically fade over time, but the timeline varies by individual healing. Lower eyelid scars (if external) sit just below the lash line and also fade significantly. Internal (transconjunctival) lower lid incisions are made inside the lower lid, so there is no external skin incision. Final scar appearance depends on your healing characteristics and how well you follow aftercare instructions.
Dry eye symptoms can temporarily worsen after blepharoplasty, so patients with existing dry eye conditions require careful evaluation. Your surgeon may recommend pre-operative treatment to optimise eye moisture before surgery. In some cases, blepharoplasty may be postponed until dry eye symptoms are better controlled. Discuss your eye health history thoroughly during your consultation.
Look for board certification in plastic surgery or oculoplastic surgery from a recognised Turkish or international body. Membership in professional associations such as ISAPS (International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) or the Turkish Society of Plastic Surgeons indicates ongoing professional development. Ask about their specific experience with blepharoplasty and request before-and-after photos of previous patients.
Conclusion
Blepharoplasty in Turkey offers international patients access to eyelid surgery at costs typically ranging from $1,500 to $4,000, sometimes with accommodation and transfers included, depending on the clinic and package. As with any surgical procedure, results depend on individual factors, including your anatomy, healing characteristics, and the surgeon you select.
Many people plan around two weeks off work, with results becoming more apparent over the following weeks and months as swelling settles. If you are considering eyelid surgery, a personalised consultation can help determine whether it is appropriate for your goals and circumstances.
Medically reviewed by Op. Dr. Emre Türkmen, otolaryngologist and facial plastic surgeon (TSPRAS member) with 17 years’ experience. He focuses on rhinoplasty and facial aesthetics, prioritising patient-centred care and balanced cosmetic and functional outcomes.
About the author
Zeyna Aslan is a medical writer at Hayatmed Clinic with 13 years of experience in healthcare content creation. Specializing in plastic surgery and hair transplant procedures, she excels at translating complex medical information into clear, engaging, and patient-friendly content. Her work empowers potential patients to make well-informed decisions about their treatment options.
At Hayatmed Clinic, Zeyna plays a key role in educating and guiding patients through high-quality, trustworthy content—contributing to the clinic’s mission of transparent patient communication and satisfaction.
Blepharoplasty Turkey Package Prices: Your 2026 Cost Guide
Blepharoplasty Turkey package prices typically range from $1,600 to $3,500 for all-inclusive care, covering surgery, hotel, transfers, and aftercare. This
Fox Eye Surgery in Turkey: 2026 Cost, Procedure & Recovery Timeline
Fox eye surgery in Turkey typically costs $2,200–$3,000 and involves lifting the outer corners of the eyes to create an
Master Your Look: Achieve Facial Harmony with Chin Augmentation
Since we live in a society with very high standards regarding beauty and appearance, millions of young people struggle with