Upper Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift): A Small Procedure That Can Make a Big Difference

Paul Drake
Paul Drake
February 2, 2026
5 min read

If you feel your eyes look tired - even when you’re well-rested - or you’ve noticed your upper lids are starting to block your vision, you’re not alone. The skin of the upper eyelids is some of the thinnest on the body, and it’s often one of the first areas to show age-related change.

Upper blepharoplasty (sometimes called an upper eyelid lift) is a precise, consultant-led procedure designed to remove excess skin and refine the eyelid contour. Done well, it can create a brighter, more open eye area while maintaining a natural, “still you” look. For many patients, it can also improve symptoms of heaviness or hooding that interferes with reading, driving, or peripheral vision.

At Profile Aesthetic in Aberdeen, upper blepharoplasty is performed by three expert consultant surgeons, and we also offer a unique approach for patients who want a more complete rejuvenation: combining surgery with iPixel (Erbium:YAG) laser resurfacing.

What upper blepharoplasty improves

Upper blepharoplasty is particularly effective for:

  • Hooded eyelids that create a heavy or closed appearance
  • Excess upper lid skin that sits on the lash line or folds over the lid crease
  • A tired-looking eye area that doesn’t match how you feel
  • Obstructed vision caused by overhanging eyelid skin (in suitable cases)
  • Makeup transfer or difficulty applying eye makeup due to skin redundancy

The aim isn’t to change who you are - it’s to restore clarity and definition around the eyes.

Facial rejuvenation that looks natural (not “done”)

The eyes are a focal point of the face. When the upper lids feel heavy or look hooded, it can subtly change your expression - sometimes making you look tired, stern, or older than you are.

A carefully planned upper blepharoplasty can:

  • Reveal more of the natural eyelid platform
  • Create a cleaner, more defined crease
  • Reduce “shadowing” and heaviness
  • Help the eyes look fresher while preserving your unique shape and character

At Profile Aesthetic, we prioritise a refined, proportionate result - avoiding the over-resected, hollow, or “surprised” look that can occur when the procedure is rushed or not tailored to the individual.

Improving obstructed vision: when function matters as much as aesthetics

For some patients, upper lid skin becomes heavy enough to physically block part of the visual field, particularly to the sides and above. People often describe:

  • Needing to raise the brows to see clearly
  • Heavy eyelids by the end of the day
  • Difficulty reading or driving, especially in low light
  • A sensation of eyelid “weight” or strain

Upper blepharoplasty can be a straightforward way to relieve these symptoms - after a proper assessment to confirm the cause and plan a safe correction.

Our Innovation: Upper blepharoplasty + iPixel (Erbium:YAG) laser resurfacing

Surgery addresses excess skin and eyelid contour. But the overall eye area is also influenced by skin texture, fine lines, and crepey changes around the lids and upper cheek.

That’s where iPixel Erbium:YAG laser resurfacing can be transformative for the right patient.

Why combine them?

Because it tackles two different contributors to an ageing eye area:

  • Upper blepharoplasty: removes and reshapes redundant upper eyelid skin
  • iPixel laser resurfacing: improves skin texture and fine lines, supporting a smoother, more even “finish”

For patients with hooding plus fine creasing or sun damage, this combination can create a more comprehensive rejuvenation than surgery alone - while still aiming for a natural, elegant result.

What to expect: your patient journey at Profile Aesthetic

1) Consultant-led assessment

You’ll meet with one of our consultant surgeons to discuss:

  • Your goals (aesthetic, functional, or both)
  • Eyelid anatomy, brow position, and skin quality
  • Whether you’d benefit from laser resurfacing as well
  • Expected outcome, scars, recovery timeline, and risks

You’ll have time for questions and clear guidance on next steps.

2) The procedure

Upper blepharoplasty is typically performed under local anaesthetic, with carefully placed incisions in the natural eyelid crease, designed to heal discreetly. The exact approach depends on your anatomy and the plan agreed in consultation. You can go home immediately after the procedure.

3) Recovery and downtime

Most people experience some swelling and bruising initially. The eye area generally settles progressively over weeks, with scar maturation continuing over time. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions and a structured follow-up plan.

(If you have an event or holiday coming up, tell us early—we can advise on realistic timelines.)

Why choose Profile Aesthetic in Aberdeen

  • Three expert consultant surgeons with deep experience in facial aesthetics and reconstructive principles
  • Precision planning for natural, balanced outcomes
  • A complete rejuvenation option with upper blepharoplasty + iPixel Erbium:YAG resurfacing
  • Patient-centred care with clear communication and thoughtful aftercare
  • A discreet, premium clinic environment in Aberdeen

We focus on doing the right amount - no more, no less - to achieve a refreshed appearance that still looks like you.

Am I suitable for upper blepharoplasty?

You may be a good candidate if:

  • You have hooded eyelids or excess skin affecting appearance or vision
  • You’re in good general health, with no serious eye problems
  • You want a natural refresh, not a dramatic change
  • You understand the recovery process and potential risks

If you’re unsure, that’s exactly what the consultation is for. We’ll assess whether blepharoplasty alone is best, or if you might benefit from combining it with laser resurfacing for skin quality.

If you have ongoing eye problems such as dry or watery eyes, it is best to see your eye specialist prior to your consultation.

Common questions

Will I look “different”?
The goal is to look refreshed, not changed. The best results are subtle and harmonious.

Will there be scars?
Incisions are usually placed in the natural eyelid crease. Scars typically fade well over time, but healing varies between individuals.

How long do results last?
Upper blepharoplasty is long-lasting, though the face continues to age naturally. Lifestyle and skin quality play a role. Laser resurfacing adds a new dimension to the procedure and long lasting results.

Is iPixel laser resurfacing painful?
Laser treatment can involve downtime and a “sunburn-like” recovery phase. We’ll talk you through comfort measures and aftercare, and only recommend it when the benefit is clear.

Safety and informed choice

All surgery carries risk. Upper blepharoplasty is commonly performed, but it requires expertise and careful assessment. During consultation, we’ll discuss potential complications, how we minimise risk, and what to do if you have concerns during recovery.

Book your consultation in Aberdeen

If heavy, hooded eyelids are making you look tired—or affecting your vision—upper blepharoplasty can be a highly effective, confidence-restoring procedure.

To explore your options with one of our consultant surgeons (and whether combining treatment with iPixel Erbium:YAG laser resurfacing is right for you), book a consultation with Profile Aesthetic, Aberdeen today.

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