Heavy, hooded or drooping eyelids can be more than just a cosmetic concern. For many people, they affect vision, cause daily discomfort, or contribute to tiredness and reduced confidence. If you’ve found yourself wondering whether surgery might help - or even if your symptoms justify treatment - this article will help you understand when it might be time to consider blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), and what the procedure involves.

What causes heavy or drooping eyelids?

The skin around our eyes is thinner and more delicate than elsewhere on the body, which means it’s particularly prone to sagging as we age. However, drooping eyelids (a condition known as ptosis) can also be caused by:

• Ageing and natural loss of skin elasticity
• Genetic factors - some people are simply more prone to heavy eyelids
• Fatigue or stress
• Underlying muscle weakness or nerve issues (less common)

For some, it’s mostly an aesthetic concern. But for others, drooping eyelids can lead to:

• Obstructed or impaired peripheral vision
• Headaches from constantly raising the brows to see clearly
• Irritation or heaviness in the eyes
• Difficulty applying makeup or wearing glasses

When should you consider surgery?

You don’t have to wait until symptoms become severe before exploring your options. Here are a few signs it might be time to consider a consultation:

• Your eyelids are interfering with your vision (particularly your upper or side vision)
• You’re experiencing eye fatigue, particularly by the end of the day
• You feel self-conscious or unhappy with how your eyes appear
• You’ve tried non-surgical options (like eye creams or lifestyle changes) without noticeable results

Blepharoplasty - or eyelid surgery - is a short, safe, and effective procedure designed to remove or reposition excess skin and tissue around the eyes. It can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.

What does the procedure involve?

At LivingCare, upper eyelid blepharoplasty is carried out at our Leeds clinic by experienced surgeons using local anaesthetic. The procedure typically takes around 45 minutes and involves:

• A small, discreet incision in the natural eyelid crease
• Removal or repositioning of excess skin and fat
• Careful stitching to ensure a smooth, natural result

Most patients return home the same day and recover within 7-10 days, with bruising and swelling typically subsiding in that time.

Note: While the procedure is delivered in Leeds, we welcome patients from across Yorkshire and beyond. If you’re travelling for your consultation or treatment, our team will ensure the process is smooth and well-supported.

Why choose LivingCare for your blepharoplasty?

LivingCare offers a consultant-led approach with:

• Rapid access to expert consultations
• A dedicated surgical service available exclusively at our Leeds clinic
• State-of-the-art facilities
• A highly experienced clinical team, with a focus on both aesthetic and functional outcomes
• Appointments available for both self-pay and insured patients

Whether your motivation is comfort, confidence or clarity of vision, our team will walk you through your options, ensure you’re fully informed, and support you every step of the way.

Next Steps

If you think blepharoplasty could be right for you, the best place to start is with a consultation. You’ll be able to talk through your symptoms, understand the procedure in more detail, and decide if it’s the right next step for you.

Book your consultation at our Leeds clinic today.

References & Supporting Information

• British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons - Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
• NHS - Blepharoplasty Overview
• Patient.info - Blepharoplasty