The eyelids are much more than just a frame for the eye – they directly affect how we look, feel and are seen externally. The feeling of heaviness in the eyelids, the tired look that they give off even when we feel alert, the difficulty in applying makeup, or even a reduced field of vision – all of these create a feeling of discomfort and sometimes also harm self-confidence and quality of life. If you identify with these feelings, you are not alone and there is a solution for this.
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is one of the most common surgical procedures in the field of ophthalmology and plastic surgery and is intended to treat a wide range of problems, both functional and aesthetic, that affect the quality of life of patients. The surgery is a precise surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the eyelids (sagging upper eyelids / the appearance of bags under the eyes ) and/or correct functional problems. As we age, the skin and tissues around the eyes lose their elasticity, leading to the accumulation of excess skin (“bags”) under the eyes, sagging muscles and protrusions of fatty tissue. These effects can cause a tired and older appearance, and in some cases even create disturbances in the field of vision.
The procedure involves removing excess skin, fat, or muscle from the upper or lower eyelids, and aims to give the eyes a fresher, younger, and more open appearance. This surgery is suitable for people who suffer from excess skin, bags under the eyes, or drooping eyelids, as well as those who are interested in improving the aesthetic appearance of the face. The main benefits include improved vision (in medical cases), a more youthful appearance, and increased self-confidence.
The surgery is performed by surgeons specializing in ophthalmology or plastic surgery, who have undergone specialized training in the field of eyelid surgery. It is important to emphasize that although this is a relatively common surgery, it requires a high level of skill, a thorough understanding of the anatomy of the eye and eyelids, and the ability to combine functional and aesthetic considerations.
Over the years, surgical techniques have evolved and improved, allowing the procedure to be performed more precisely, with more natural results and a relatively short recovery time. Modern techniques allow the surgery to be personalized for each patient, taking into account the unique structure of their face, age, health status, and expectations for the results of the surgery.
Eyelid surgery may be relevant for medical or aesthetic reasons:
Medical reasons:
Aesthetic reasons:
diagnosis
The professor’s diagnosis is important because the appearance of a swollen eyelid can also be caused by eye infections, eye injury, or a disruption in the body’s fluid balance. Swelling of the eyelids or drooping eyelids can be a sign of a more serious health problem, which requires complex diagnosis and treatment.
As part of the diagnosis, your doctor will perform a comprehensive examination of your eyes and eyelids, and will ask you questions about your symptoms, medical history, and medications you are taking. If necessary, your doctor may refer you for additional tests, such as blood tests or imaging, to rule out other causes of the swelling. If you feel that your eyelids are affecting your appearance or quality of life, it may be time to consider the procedure.
Your appearance is getting older.
With age, the eyelids stretch and the muscles that support them weaken.
As a result, skin and fat accumulate above and below the eyelids, causing the appearance of drooping eyebrows and bags under the eyes.
Your vision is impaired.
Sagging skin around the eyes or true drooping of the upper eyelid may affect the upper field of vision, especially peripheral vision.
A feeling of heaviness in the eyelids interferes with your daily functioning: Excess skin on the upper eyelids can cause a feeling of heaviness and fatigue in the eyes, and even make it difficult to open and close them.
You suffer from dry eyes: Drooping eyelids can interfere with the outer surface of the eye, which can cause dry eyes, irritation, and redness.
Your self-confidence is damaged: A tired and older appearance as a result of drooping eyelids can damage self-confidence and affect self-image.
The professor’s diagnosis is important because the appearance of a swollen eyelid can also be caused by eye infections, eye injury, or a disruption in the body’s fluid balance.
Swelling of the eyelids or drooping eyelids can be a sign of a more serious health problem, which requires complex diagnosis and treatment.
As part of the diagnosis, your doctor will perform a comprehensive examination of your eyes and eyelids, and will ask you questions about your symptoms, medical history, and medications you are taking. If necessary, your doctor may refer you for additional tests, such as blood tests or imaging, to rule out other causes of the swelling.
Two main types of eyelid surgery can be distinguished: upper eyelid surgery and lower eyelid surgery.
In upper eyelid surgery, the surgical incision is made in the natural crease of the eyelid, which allows for optimal concealment of the scar after healing. The surgeon carefully removes excess skin, while maintaining a sufficient amount for proper closure of the eye. If necessary, the protruding fatty tissue and eyelid muscles are also treated. In cases of significant drooping eyelids (ptosis), it may be necessary to shorten the muscle that lifts the eyelid.
There are two main approaches to lower eyelid surgery. In the external (transcutaneous) approach, the incision is made below the lash line, allowing direct access to the deeper tissues. In the internal (transconjunctival) approach, the incision is made on the inside of the eyelid, preventing an external scar. The choice between the approaches depends on the degree of excess skin, the amount of protruding fatty tissue, and the overall complexity of the case.
Additionally, it is important to know that in recent years, advanced techniques have developed that combine deep tissue treatment with the preservation and repositioning of fatty tissue, with the aim of creating a more natural appearance and preventing the “hollow” appearance that may result from uncontrolled tissue removal. There are also techniques that combine complementary treatments such as the injection of autologous fat or fillers, to further improve the aesthetic result.
The eyelid surgery process begins with careful preparation, which includes a series of essential tests and preparatory steps. The preparation phase is no less important than the surgery itself, as it ensures the safety of the procedure and affects its results.
Preparation for surgery includes an eye exam, a general medical evaluation, and basic blood tests. The eye exam checks the health of the eye, intraocular pressure, tear production, and eyelid muscle function. It is especially important to check for dry eye, as this condition may temporarily worsen after surgery.
The eyelid surgery itself is usually performed under local anesthesia combined with sedation, although in some cases general anesthesia is required. The duration of the surgery ranges from one to three hours, depending on the scope of the treatment and the complexity of the case. Before the surgery begins, Prof. Ben Simon precisely marks the planned incision lines, taking into account the natural structure of the eyelids and the desired result.
The surgical technique varies depending on the type of surgery and the specific problems being treated. In the upper eyelids, the incision is made in the natural crease of the eyelid, which allows for optimal concealment of the scar.
Your eyes will be photographed from different angles. These images help plan the surgery, assess its immediate and long-term effects, and are also used for insurance reimbursement.
Prof. Ben-Simon will test your vision, including your peripheral vision. This is also necessary to consider insurance involvement.
Prof. Ben-Simon will perform a physical examination that may include testing your tear profile and measurements of your eyelids and eyelid muscle function.
During the surgery, anesthesia ensures that you will not feel any pain. After the procedure, common symptoms include:
After eyelid surgery, you are likely to experience a significant improvement in the appearance of your face and eyes. The surgery will give your eyes a more youthful, fresh, and alert appearance, contributing to a more attractive overall facial appearance. Drooping or wrinkled eyelids will be lifted and tightened, significantly reducing the tired, heavy appearance of your eyes.
Additionally, if you have had vision problems caused by droopy eyelids, surgery may reduce or even eliminate them completely. As a result, your vision will improve and everyday activities such as reading, driving, and watching TV will become much easier. You will also no longer have to strain to lift your forehead and eyebrows in an attempt to open your eyes.
In the first period after surgery, there may be slight swelling and discomfort in the eye area. These effects are temporary and will disappear over time, usually within a few days to weeks. There may also be some bruising around the eyes, but these also tend to disappear quickly.
As a general rule, during the recovery process you will need to rest and avoid strenuous physical activity, in order to allow your eyes to heal as best as possible.
After surgery, you may have a temporary feeling of:
The recovery process from eyelid surgery is gradual and requires patience.
Place cold compresses on the eyes every two hours after surgery and gradually reduce use.
Clean the eyelids gently and use ointment or drops as prescribed.
Wear dark sunglasses to protect the skin of your eyelids from sun and wind.
Sleep with your head elevated for a few days.
Avoid strenuous physical activity.
About one to two weeks after the surgery, you should return to the clinic for an initial check-up and to have stitches removed if necessary. In some cases, the check-up will be one or two days later, depending on the type of surgery.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:
Recovery from eyelid surgery is a gradual process, requiring strict adherence to the surgeon’s instructions:
To ensure a successful recovery, the following actions should be avoided:
The results of eyelid surgery are usually maintained for many years, but the preservation of the final result over time may be affected by several key factors, including: genetic and hereditary factors that affect the rate of skin and tissue aging, lifestyle (including diet, exercise, smoking, and sun exposure), as well as environmental factors such as air pollution, humidity, and extreme weather changes.
For optimal preservation of the results of the surgery, it is recommended:
In some cases, a repeat operation may be necessary after several years, especially if the first operation was performed at a relatively young age. Repeat surgery requires particularly careful planning and is recommended to be performed by an experienced surgeon who specializes in repeat surgeries, such as Prof. Ben Simon.
If necessary, of course, Prof. Guy Ben Simon will offer you a forehead lift/ eyebrow lift , changing the texture of the eyelid skin, autologous fat injection, repositioning of prominent fat, facial skin rejuvenation, reducing wrinkles, and also filler injections .
In an article in YNET , Prof. Guy Ben Simon says: “The correct way to treat and achieve a natural appearance – restoring volume and lifting the skin using hyaluronic acid” and explains: “The key to proper treatment of the upper part of the face, and in general the facial area, is to restore the situation to its original state as much as possible, but while maintaining the patient’s proportions and their natural appearance…” In order to do this, you need to use a specialized hyaluronic acid with characteristics that allow for the restoration of volume to the tissues while integrating maximally with the tissue so that it looks natural from the very first moment.”
Prof. Guy Ben-Simon will explain the risks that apply to you. Understanding the procedure and weighing the pros and cons can help you decide whether one procedure or another is right for you.
Insurance coverage for eyelid surgery depends largely on the purpose of the surgery and the patient’s medical condition. If the surgery is required to correct a condition that impairs vision, such as drooping eyelids that limit the ability to see clearly, there is a good chance that insurance will cover the cost of the surgery. In such cases, the surgery is considered a medically necessary procedure and not just a cosmetic procedure, and therefore many health insurance policies include coverage for these conditions.
For example, if you suffer from droopy eyelids that obscure your field of vision and make it difficult for you to perform daily activities such as reading, driving, or working at a computer, you will likely benefit from insurance coverage.
On the other hand, if the surgery is primarily intended to improve your appearance and is not due to a medical necessity, that is, if the purpose of the surgery is purely aesthetic in order to achieve a younger, fresher appearance without any associated medical problem, insurance will most likely not cover the cost. In these cases, the surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure and therefore there is no justification for insurance companies to cover the expenses. In other words, health insurance will usually not cover cosmetic procedures that are done solely for the purpose of improving your aesthetic appearance.
Prof. Guy Ben Simon is an ophthalmologist whose area of expertise is eye plastic surgery. During your meeting with him, you will discuss:
Your desire to improve the situation through appropriate analysis and diagnosis will bring about the desired change.
Prof. Ben Simon is a world-renowned expert in eyelid surgery, with many years of experience and proven results. His clinic offers a personal approach, advanced technology and adherence to high medical standards. Many patients recommend him for his professionalism, empathy and impressive aesthetic results.
Choosing the right surgeon is one of the most significant factors in the success of eyelid surgery. The eyelid surgeon should be a specialist ophthalmologist or plastic surgeon with specialized training in the field of eyelid surgery. It is important to ensure that the surgeon has a valid license from the Ministry of Health and is recognized by the relevant professional organizations.
It should be emphasized that specific specialization in eyelid surgery is critical. Eyelid surgery requires a thorough understanding of the anatomy of the eye and eyelids, experience in precise surgical techniques, and the ability to take functional and aesthetic considerations into account simultaneously.
During the initial consultation, the surgeon should perform a comprehensive examination of the eyes and eyelids, document the existing condition with photographs, and provide a detailed explanation of the treatment options available to the patient. It is important for the surgeon to take the time to understand the patient’s aspirations in order to create a level playing field.
It is recommended to ask to see “before and after” photos and even ask to speak to previous patients if possible. It is important to make sure that the surgeon has access to appropriate medical facilities and professional staff.
A qualified and professional surgeon will ensure close follow-up after surgery and will be available for consultation in case of problems or concerns. He will provide detailed written instructions regarding preparation for surgery and post-surgery care, and will establish a systematic follow-up plan that is individually tailored to the patient.
Prof. Guy Ben Simon, an ophthalmologist specializing in eyelid surgery, adheres to all of these high professional standards. He combines extensive clinical experience in the field of eyelid surgery with a personal and professional approach to each patient, using the most advanced surgical techniques and ensuring close monitoring throughout the recovery process.
The surgery usually lasts between one and two hours, depending on the complexity and whether it involves the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.
During the surgery, patients are under local anesthesia with sedation, so they do not feel any pain. After the surgery, there may be slight discomfort or a feeling of stretching, but this is usually mild pain that can be treated with simple painkillers.
Most swelling and bruising will subside within two weeks. Moderate daily activities can be resumed after about 5–7 days, but full recovery and the final result will take about three months.
The incisions are made in the natural folds of the skin, so the scars, if any, are almost invisible after healing.
The results of the surgery are maintained for many years. However, the natural aging process of the skin continues, and sometimes a repeat intervention may be necessary in the future – usually after about 10–15 years.
You can return to makeup in the eyelid area about two weeks after surgery, depending on your personal recovery rate and after your doctor approves.
Yes, in cases where there is excess skin in the upper eyelids that limits the field of vision, removing the skin can lead to a significant improvement in vision.
Absolutely. Many men undergo the procedure to improve facial appearance and solve functional problems. The surgery is tailored to the facial structure and personal preferences of each patient.
Yes, eyelid surgery is sometimes combined with treatments such as eyebrow lifting, filling of depressions, or laser treatments – depending on the goals and overall aesthetic condition of the patient.
No. This is an outpatient surgery – meaning that patients are discharged home a few hours after the surgery, provided they feel well.
Eyelid surgery is an effective solution to improve the appearance and function of the eyelids, with long-term results and minimal risks. Whether you are considering the procedure for medical or aesthetic reasons, a consultation with Prof. Guy Ben Simon will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or for more information.
MEDICA Medical Center, HaBarzel 28, 1st floor, Ramat HaHayal, Tel Aviv
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