Quick Answer: Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, removes excess skin and fat from the upper and lower eyelids to correct drooping and puffiness, and can create a double-eyelid crease. It is usually done as day surgery under local anaesthesia, so you can return home the same day. Dr Ong Wei Chen performs eyelid surgery at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Gleneagles Medical Centre, Singapore.Eyelid surgery, known medically as blepharoplasty, removes excess fat and skin from the upper and lower eyelids to reduce drooping and puffiness, and can create a double-eyelid crease. As the tissues around the eyes wear down with age, the eyelids can droop and look tired, and surgery helps restore a more rested, open appearance. Double-eyelid surgery can also make the eye look larger when open, which some people with single eyelids prefer.
What does eyelid surgery involve?
“Eyelid surgery is precise work — a few millimetres change the whole expression. The aim is an eye that looks rested and natural, not operated on.”
— Dr Ong Wei Chen, Senior Consultant Plastic Surgeon
Eyelid surgery involves small incisions placed within the natural folds of the eyelid, through which excess skin and fat are removed and the eyelid shape is adjusted; a double-eyelid crease is created at this stage where desired. Because the incisions follow the eyelid’s natural folds, resulting scars are well concealed. The procedure is often done as day surgery under local anaesthesia, so you may return home afterwards. Dr Ong Wei Chen examines your eyelids and discusses your goals before surgery.
What is recovery from eyelid surgery like?
Recovery from eyelid surgery is usually quick: some blurred vision and mild discomfort are expected in the first few days, and most people return to work within a week. Swelling and bruising generally settle within one to two weeks, and the full result is typically visible within one to three months. Using prescribed eye drops, wearing protective eyewear against ultraviolet light and following wound-care advice support healing. Dr Ong Wei Chen reviews recovery at follow-up appointments.
Is eyelid surgery done for cosmetic or medical reasons?
Eyelid surgery can be performed for cosmetic reasons — to refine the eyelid shape or create a double eyelid — or for medical reasons, such as when heavy, drooping upper eyelids affect the field of vision. The approach is tailored to the concern and your anatomy. Whether a case is considered medical affects insurance eligibility. Dr Ong Wei Chen assesses each patient at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Gleneagles Medical Centre, and advises accordingly.
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is a suitable candidate for eyelid surgery in Singapore?
Most healthy adults who want to change the shape of their eyelids, or address drooping or puffiness, can undergo eyelid surgery for cosmetic or medical reasons. A consultation and examination confirm suitability and rule out conditions that need treating first. Dr Ong Wei Chen assesses each patient’s eyelids and goals at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Gleneagles Medical Centre, before advising.
What are the risks and side effects of eyelid surgery?
As with any surgery, eyelid surgery carries risks including bleeding, infection and slower wound healing in the early recovery period. Blurred vision and mild pain are normal in the first few days and settle as the eyelids recover. Following post-operative instructions and attending follow-up appointments reduce complications. Dr Ong Wei Chen reviews the risks relevant to your case before the procedure.
Will eyelid surgery leave a visible scar?
Some scarring is expected because incisions are needed to reshape the eyelid, but they are placed within the natural folds of the eyelid, so scars are not easily visible. The clinic advises on wound care and scar management to support healing. The result depends on individual healing and the extent of surgery. Dr Ong Wei Chen explains the expected scarring at consultation.
Can eyelid surgery be claimed under Medisave or insurance in Singapore?
Eyelid surgery performed purely for cosmetic reasons is generally not claimable, but it may qualify when done for a medical reason, such
as drooping upper eyelids that obstruct vision. WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery can assist with direct insurance e-filing and
Medisave claims where eligible. Coverage depends on the assessment and your policy, so confirm with your insurer beforehand.
