Eyelid surgery scars are often a concern for patients considering blepharoplasty, but the truth is that while scarring is an unavoidable part of any surgical procedure, the scars from eyelid surgery are usually very discreet.
The eyelid area heals remarkably well compared to many other parts of the body, and when incisions are carefully placed within natural skin folds, they tend to blend in over time.
Understanding what to expect and how the body heals after eyelid surgery can help patients feel more informed about what scarring really involves. In this blog, we’ll outline what to expect and explain how scarring may appear.
Where are the incisions made during eyelid surgery?
The location of the incisions depends on whether you’re having upper or lower eyelid surgery, or both.
For upper eyelid surgery, the incision is usually made along the natural crease of the eyelid. This placement allows the surgeon to remove excess skin and adjust underlying tissue while keeping the resulting scar mostly hidden when the eye is open.
For lower eyelid surgery, the incision may be made either just below the lash line or inside the eyelid (a method called a transconjunctival incision). When performed inside the eyelid, there is no external scar at all. Even when the incision is made below the lashes, it typically blends well with the surrounding skin once healed.
Since the skin of the eyelid is thin and has a good blood supply, it generally heals more efficiently than other areas. This is one of the reasons eyelid surgery scars often become barely visible with time.
What affects how eyelid surgery scars heal?
Every patient heals differently, and several factors can influence how eyelid surgery scars appear during recovery. The most obvious factor is the incision placement, but individual skin type, age, and genetics also play a role. Some patients may find their scars fade faster, while others may experience slightly prolonged redness or mild thickening before the tissue softens.
The surgeon’s technique is another significant factor. Precise incisions, minimal tissue tension, and fine suturing methods all contribute to how well the area heals.
Following aftercare instructions is equally important. For example, keeping the area clean, avoiding rubbing the eyes, and protecting the skin from direct sun exposure can all support healing. We’ll cover aftercare later in this blog.
How noticeable are the scars after eyelid surgery?
In most cases, eyelid surgery scars become very faint once the healing process is complete.
Straight after surgery, the incision lines are usually slightly red or pink, and some swelling or bruising can make them appear more visible than they will be later on. Over several weeks, these initial signs fade as the tissues begin to recover.
Within a few months, many patients find that the scars are hardly visible even without makeup. In upper eyelid surgery, the incision sits within the eyelid crease, which naturally hides it. When the eyes are open, the scar is almost completely concealed. For lower eyelid surgery, any external incision tends to blend into the fine skin beneath the lashes, becoming a fine, pale line that’s difficult to detect.
It’s important to remember that while scars never disappear entirely, they often become so fine and light that they’re practically unnoticeable.
Can anything be done to help the scars heal better?
While most eyelid surgery scars heal well on their own, some post-surgical care practices can support the healing process.
Keeping the area moisturised with ointments or creams can prevent dryness and minimise irritation. However, it’s important that any topical treatments are approved by your surgeon before you start using them. Some products may not be suitable for use so close to the eyes, so guidance is essential.
In rare cases where scars remain more noticeable than expected, minor revision procedures may be an option. However, this is uncommon, as the eyelid area tends to heal well.
How long does it take for eyelid surgery scars to fade?
Healing occurs gradually, and the timeline can vary from person to person. In the first few weeks, swelling and redness around the incision are normal and tend to subside as the skin begins to repair itself. By around six weeks, most of the early healing is complete, and the scars usually appear lighter.
Over the next few months, the tissue continues to mature. Scars may go through a phase where they appear slightly firmer or more textured before they begin to soften. By the six to 12 month mark, eyelid surgery scars generally reach their final appearance – flat, pale, and barely noticeable.
Protecting the healing skin from sun exposure is important during this time, as ultraviolet light can darken scars and make them more visible. Using sunscreen or wearing sunglasses when outdoors can help protect the area and assist in the fading process.
Book your consultation for blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) in Sydney
Led by Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Jeremy Hunt, our team of plastic surgeons, clinicians and administration staff are passionate about providing you with a surgical experience of the highest standard.
Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon who has a detailed understanding of incision placement can make a significant difference in how well scars blend in over time. A well-performed procedure, combined with good aftercare, usually results in scars that are barely noticeable.
If you’re thinking about undergoing eyelid surgery, you are welcome to contact our team to book a consultation with Dr Hunt or another experienced surgeon in Sydney.
Further reading about blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) with Dr Hunt:
- https://www.drjeremyhunt.com.au/procedures/face-surgery/eyelid-surgery/
- https://www.drjeremyhunt.com.au/blogs/blepharoplasty-surgery/
- https://www.drjeremyhunt.com.au/blogs/blepharoplasty-recovery-your-guide-for-incision-care-healing/
- https://www.drjeremyhunt.com.au/blogs/eyelid-lift-or-brow-lift-facts-to-consider/
- https://www.drjeremyhunt.com.au/blogs/is-it-possible-to-combine-a-facelift-with-blepharoplasty/
Medical references about blepharoplasty: