Upper eyelid lift
for a fresh, open perspective

The eyes are the first thing people notice on a face. And they’re often the first thing to show signs of aging—not because the eyes themselves change, but because the skin around them loses its elasticity. Drooping upper eyelids can make the face look tired, exhausted, or even grumpy—even though you feel completely different on the inside. In severe cases, drooping eyelids can even restrict your field of vision.

I am Dr. Juliane Bodo, a board-certified specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery in Berlin-Charlottenburg. Upper eyelid lift surgery—medically known as blepharoplasty—is one of the most common procedures performed at my clinic. And it’s one of the most underappreciated, in the best sense of the word: the result is so natural that no one can tell anything has been done. My patients simply look more rested and refreshed.

What is an upper eyelid lift?

In blepharoplasty, excess skin—and, if necessary, some fatty tissue—is removed from the upper eyelids. The incision is made along the natural crease of the eyelid and is barely visible once healed. The result: an open, alert gaze that rejuvenates the entire face.

When is an upper eyelid lift recommended?

I recommend upper eyelid surgery if:

• the skin of the upper eyelids rests on the eyelashes or restricts the field of vision
• the face looks constantly tired or sad, despite being of normal age
• conservative treatments such as Botox are no longer sufficient
• You feel constantly uncomfortable around your eyes

How is an upper eyelid lift performed?

The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and takes about 30–45 minutes. It is performed under local anesthesia—or, if desired, under twilight sedation or general anesthesia.

The incision is made along the natural crease of the eyelid. Excess skin is precisely removed, along with some fatty tissue if necessary. The incision is closed with very fine sutures, which are removed after about 7–10 days. The scar is discreetly hidden in the eyelid crease and is barely visible once healed.

Combination with Lower Eyelid Correction

Many female patients choose to have lower eyelid surgery at the same time—to treat bags under the eyes or sagging lower eyelids. Both procedures can be combined into a single operation, which significantly reduces healing time and the overall burden.

If the lower eyelids are affected in addition to the upper eyelids, the two procedures can be combined. For more information, visit my page on Lower eyelid surgery

Alternative Without Surgery

For mild tear troughs or volume loss under the eyes without excess skin, dermal fillers such as hyaluronic acid or autologous fat may be sufficient. We’ll discuss this together during your consultation.

Preparation for surgery

• Stop taking blood-thinning medications and aspirin at least one week before surgery—as directed
• Avoid nicotine for at least two weeks before and after the procedure
• Do not wear contact lenses during the first few days after surgery
• Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure

Aftercare & Healing Process

• Cooling: Apply gentle cooling pads regularly during the first few days
• Suture removal: After about 7–10 days
• No exercise, sauna, or tanning bed: At least two weeks
• Don't put makeup on a fresh scar
• Sunglasses protect the eye area during the first few weeks
• Ready to socialize: After about 14 days
• Final result: After 3–6 months, once all swelling has completely subsided

Risks & Potential Complications

Upper eyelid lift surgery is a low-risk procedure—nevertheless, I will discuss all the risks with you in detail:

• Swelling & Bruising: Normal and subside within 1–2 weeks
• Temporary watery eyes: Common in the first few days—this will resolve on its own
• Numbness: Very rare, temporary
• Asymmetries: Minor differences are anatomically normal—correction is possible in cases of pronounced asymmetries
• Scarring: Because the incision is made along the natural eyelid crease, it is usually barely visible
• Infections: Very rare when performed under sterile conditions
• Dry eyes: May be temporary—easily treatable with eye drops

Cost of Upper Eyelid Lift Surgery in Berlin

At my clinic, upper eyelid lift surgery costs starting at €2,600 on an outpatient basis, plus any anesthesia costs. If there is a proven medical necessity, your health insurance may cover part of the costs. You will receive a transparent breakdown of costs during your personal consultation.

If you are considering an upper eyelid lift, I invite you to schedule a no-obligation consultation at my clinic in Berlin-Charlottenburg.

Frequently Asked Questions About Upper Eyelid Lifts.