Private eyelid surgery at The Princess Margaret Hospital in Windsor
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic and functional procedure designed to improve the appearance of the upper or lower eyelids.
As the skin naturally loses firmness over time, the eyelids can begin to droop or appear heavy. Some people develop puffiness or bags beneath the eyes, while others notice excess upper eyelid skin that may affect vision or create a tired appearance. Eyelid surgery can help restore a smoother, brighter, and more refreshed appearance while also improving comfort and visual function where appropriate.
At The Princess Margaret Hospital, your treatment is tailored carefully to your anatomy, concerns, and goals. From your initial consultation through to recovery and aftercare, the focus is on achieving natural-looking results with a strong emphasis on patient safety and personalised care.
Consultant-led cosmetic care
Eyelid surgery is performed by a consultant plastic surgeon or specialist oculoplastic surgeon with expertise in procedures around the eye.
These specialists have detailed knowledge of facial anatomy and eye function, helping ensure both safe surgical treatment and balanced, natural-looking outcomes. Your consultant will assess your concerns carefully, explain your options clearly, and guide you through every stage of your treatment journey.
What is eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery is a procedure that removes or repositions excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle from around the eyes to improve both appearance and function.
There are different types of eyelid surgery depending on the area being treated and your individual concerns.
Upper eyelid surgery
Upper eyelid surgery focuses on removing excess skin and tissue from the upper eyelids. This can help reduce hooding, heaviness, and drooping that may affect appearance or interfere with vision.
Lower eyelid surgery
Lower eyelid surgery is designed to improve puffiness, bags, or loose skin beneath the eyes, helping create a smoother and more rested appearance.
Combined eyelid procedures
Some patients benefit from combining upper and lower eyelid surgery for more comprehensive rejuvenation around the eyes.
Your consultant will recommend the most suitable approach based on your anatomy, symptoms, and treatment goals.
How much does eyelid surgery cost at The Princess Margaret Hospital?
The cost of eyelid blepharoplasty will depend on various factors, including whether you are having upper, lower or combined eyelid surgery, which consultant you choose, and the specific details of your procedure. You’ll be given a fixed price with a detailed breakdown of costs before you book.
You can choose to fund your treatment through self-pay (paying for yourself) or use private health insurance. We work with most major providers, and our friendly advisory team can help guide you through using your cover.
Our flexible payment options help you spread the cost of your payment across a time period that suits you. We offer fixed-term monthly payment plans over one to five years with no deposit required. If you decide to pay over 10 months, you will pay interest-free. If you are paying for a longer period, you will pay 9.9% APR.
Why might you consider eyelid surgery?
People choose eyelid surgery for a variety of cosmetic and functional reasons. Changes around the eyes can have a significant effect on facial appearance and may also impact day-to-day comfort or vision.
You may consider eyelid surgery if you experience:
- Drooping or heavy upper eyelids
- Puffiness or bags beneath the eyes
- Excess eyelid skin affecting your field of vision
- A tired or aged appearance around the eyes
- Loose skin that creates discomfort or irritation
For many people, these concerns develop gradually due to ageing and loss of skin elasticity. Others may naturally have heavier eyelids or more prominent under-eye puffiness.
In addition to physical symptoms, eyelid concerns can also affect confidence and self-image. Some people feel they appear more tired, older, or less alert than they actually feel.
Blepharoplasty can help restore a brighter, fresher appearance while maintaining natural facial expression and eye shape.
What happens during an eyelid surgery consultation?
Your consultation is an important part of your treatment journey and is designed to provide a detailed assessment of your concerns, symptoms, and treatment goals.
Your surgeon will begin by discussing the changes you have noticed around your eyes, including any issues with drooping eyelids, puffiness, vision obstruction, or facial appearance. You will also discuss your medical history, medications, previous eye conditions, and lifestyle factors that may influence treatment planning or recovery.
A physical examination of the eye area will then be carried out. This may include assessing:
- Skin elasticity and quality
- Eyelid position and symmetry
- Muscle tone around the eyes
- The amount of excess skin or fat
- Whether your vision is affected by eyelid position
Clinical photographs may also be taken as part of your assessment and surgical planning.
Following your examination, your consultant will explain which treatment options are most appropriate and what results can realistically be achieved. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and take time to consider your options before making any decision about surgery.
What happens during eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery is usually performed as a day-case procedure under local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the treatment plan.
During the procedure, carefully positioned incisions are made within the natural creases of the eyelids or just below the lash line to help minimise visible scarring. Excess skin, fat, and tissue are then removed or repositioned to improve contour and create a smoother appearance around the eyes.
Once the necessary adjustments have been made, the incisions are closed using fine sutures. After surgery, you will be monitored by the clinical team before returning home later the same day.
Recovery after eyelid surgery
Recovery following eyelid surgery is usually gradual and straightforward, although it is normal to experience some swelling, bruising, tightness, and mild discomfort during the early stages of healing.
During the first few days, the eye area may feel sensitive or appear swollen. Cold compresses and keeping your head elevated can help reduce swelling and support comfort.
Most patients feel comfortable returning to lighter activities and work within one to two weeks, although healing times vary between individuals. As swelling continues to settle, the eye area gradually appears more natural and refined over the following weeks and months.
During recovery, your consultant may advise you to:
- Avoid rubbing the eyes
- Keep the area clean and dry
- Use prescribed eye drops or ointments
- Avoid strenuous exercise temporarily
- Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect healing skin
- Sleep with your head elevated initially
Follow-up appointments will be arranged to monitor your recovery and ensure healing is progressing well.
Will eyelid surgery affect your vision?
For some patients, upper eyelid surgery can improve vision by removing excess skin that obstructs the upper field of view.
Temporary symptoms such as blurred vision, watery eyes, dryness, or sensitivity can occur during recovery, but these usually settle as healing progresses.
Your consultant will assess your eye health carefully before surgery and explain any potential risks or temporary changes you may experience during recovery.
Are the results of eyelid surgery permanent?
Eyelid surgery can provide long-lasting improvement in the appearance and contour of the eye area.
Although the natural ageing process continues over time, many patients continue to enjoy the benefits of surgery for many years. Maintaining good skincare habits, protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure, and following healthy lifestyle habits can help support longer-lasting results.
Your consultant will discuss realistic expectations with you during your consultation so you understand how surgery may improve your appearance over both the short and long term.
Are eyelid surgery procedures safe?
Blepharoplasty is considered a safe and commonly performed procedure when carried out by an experienced consultant surgeon within a regulated hospital setting.
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks, including infection, bleeding, scarring, dry eyes, or temporary changes in sensation. At The Princess Margaret Hospital, patient safety is prioritised through detailed assessment, modern surgical techniques, and high clinical standards throughout your treatment journey.
Your consultant will explain the potential risks and benefits fully before surgery so you can make an informed decision about treatment.
Why choose The Princess Margaret Hospital for eyelid surgery in Windsor?
When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:
- Flexible appointment times to fit your schedule
- Bespoke, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
- Support from the same compassionate clinical team from beginning to end
- Transparent, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
- Flexible payment options to help spread the cost of your care
Going private for healthcare provides faster access to a vast range of treatment options, greater flexibility in choosing specialists, and more personalised care.
How to book eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) in Windsor
To book a consultation to discuss eyelid surgery with a consultant plastic surgeon near you, use our online booking system, or give us a call and one of our dedicated advisors will help you find an appointment time that suits you.