What is the difference between preservation blepharoplasty and traditional eyelid surgery?

Traditional blepharoplasty focuses on the excision (removal) of excess skin and fat to create a smoother surface. While effective, removing too much tissue can sometimes lead to a "hollowed-out" or skeletonised look as the face continues to age. In contrast, preservation blepharoplasty is a restorative and volume-stable approach. Rather than simply discarding tissue, Dr. Gino Vissers meticulously repositions the existing fat pads to fill hollows (such as the tear trough) and preserves the vital orbicularis oculi muscle. This maintains the natural "fullness" of a youthful eye while only removing the specific skin necessary to resolve hooding. The result is a refreshed appearance that retains the essential character of your face.

Will I still have scars with preservation blepharoplasty?

All surgical procedures involve incisions, but the preservation technique is designed for maximum discretion. For the upper lids, Dr. Vissers places incisions precisely within the natural eyelid crease, where they are hidden when your eyes are open. For the lower eyelids, Dr. Vissers often utilises a transconjunctival approach, where the incision is made on the inside of the eyelid, leaving no external scar at all. Any external entry points are closed with micro-sutures and typically fade into fine, virtually invisible lines that blend into the natural "smile lines" or shadows of the orbital rim

How long do preservation blepharoplasty results last?

Results of preservation blepharoplasty typically last for ±10 years. This is a natural phenomenon as the eyelids will continue to age after surgery.

What causes eyelid sagging?

Eyelid sagging can develop for several reasons and often becomes more noticeable with time. The most common cause is ageing, as the delicate skin and supporting muscles of the eyelids gradually weaken and lose elasticity. This natural process can lead to drooping upper eyelids, heaviness, and a tired appearance. Genetics also play a significant role. Some individuals are predisposed to eyelid hooding or early eyelid laxity, which may appear long before other signs of ageing. Structural issues such as weakened levator muscles, neurological conditions, or injury to the eyelid region can further contribute to ptosis. Other causes may include previous eyelid procedures, eyelid cysts or benign tumours, or a low position of the eyebrows. If you are concerned about eyelid sagging, a consultation with Dr. Gino Vissers, a leading specialist in eyelid surgery in London, can help determine the underlying cause and the most effective treatment options. Many patients benefit from preservation blepharoplasty designed to restore a refreshed, lifted and naturally rejuvenated appearance.

What age should you be to get eyelid surgery?

There is no age requirement for eyelid surgery, but most patients have this procedure when they are in their 40s or older.

What are the risks of preservation blepharoplasty?

Like any surgical procedure, preservation blepharoplasty has some minor risks, including bleeding, wound problems, and infections. Dry eyes or problems with the eyelids are risks specific to upper eyelid surgery.

Preservation Blepharoplasty

in Harley Street

Tissue-sparing eyelid surgery in Marylebone

Key facts

Preservation blepharoplasty, also known as tissue-sparing eyelid surgery, is a procedure aimed at rejuvenating the appearance of the eyelids, whilst preserving the eyelid muscles and fat for a natural contour.

How it works: removal of excess skin and repositioning fat at the eyelids

Anaesthesia: local anaesthesia

Recovery time: 7-10 days

Results: after swelling has settled down

Lasts: ± 10 years

Surgical procedure

Local anaesthesia

Day surgery

Quick recovery

What is preservation blepharoplasty?

Preservation blepharoplasty is a modern, advanced approach to eyelid rejuvenation that prioritises the retention of your natural anatomy. It is the golden standard in modern eyelid surgery, and the preferred approach for most patients in Dr. Gino Vissers' practice.

Unlike traditional eyelid surgery, which often involves the aggressive removal of skin, muscle, and fat, the preservation technique focuses on redistributing and "tucking" tissues to restore a youthful volume without the risk of a hollowed or "surgical" appearance.

At his Harley Street clinic in Marylebone, Dr. Gino Vissers employs this meticulous technique to ensure that the unique character of your eyes remains intact. By preserving the orbicularis oculi muscle and repositioning fat pads, he creates seamless and refreshed transitions.

As we age, the skin on our eyelids can lose elasticity, causing it to sag and create a heavy, tired, or hooded appearance. Preservation blepharoplasty addresses these concerns with the most natural approach possible.

A close up of a woman 's eye with makeup on it.

Personalised preservation blepharoplasty in London

Blepharoplasty is a highly versatile procedure that can be tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. Different techniques focus on specific areas of the eyelids to rejuvenate the eyes and enhance overall facial harmony.

When performing eyelid surgery, consultant plastic surgeon Dr. Gino Vissers carefully considers your individual facial structure and desired outcome to determine the most suitable surgical approach. For many patients, the results of eyelid surgery are remarkably rejuvenating, making them appear years younger. Not only does eyelid surgery restore a more youthful appearance, it also helps individuals regain their self-confidence and feel more comfortable in their own skin.

Should I undergo preservation blepharoplasty?

Preservation blepharoplasty is ideal for patients who desire rejuvenation but are wary of a overly operated look sometimes associated with older surgical methods. During your consultation in Harley Street, Dr. Gino Vissers will assess your orbital structure to determine if a tissue-sparing approach is right for you.

Preservation blepharoplasty can treat any of the following issues:

Hooded upper eyelids with volume loss
Fat excess in upper eyelids
Under-eye bags
Wrinkles and lines around the eyes
Tired look
Impaired vision by droopy eyelids

Preparing for eyelid surgery

Getting ready for your blepharoplasty is just as important as the surgery itself. A little preparation goes a long way in making your recovery smoother, more comfortable, and stress-free. Here are some simple steps to help you feel confident and ready:

Follow your surgeon's guidance

Dr. Vissers will give you clear instructions to follow before surgery, such as pausing certain medications, supplements, smoking, or alcohol. These steps are all designed to keep you safe and help your body heal quickly, so think of them as part of your recovery plan.

Arrange support for after surgery

You’ll need someone you trust to take you home after your procedure, since you won’t be able to drive yourself. It’s also helpful to have a friend or family member nearby for the first day or two, just in case you need an extra hand. Give yourself permission to take a proper break from work and daily tasks so you can focus on resting.

Create a comfortable recovery space

Before your surgery, set up a cozy spot at home where you can relax. Keep a few extra pillows ready to support your head, and have ice packs available to ease any swelling. Place everything you might need, like your medication, gauze, and ointment, within easy reach so you don’t have to get up too often.

A close up of a woman 's brown eye with long eyelashes.

What happens during the procedure?

During the procedure, Dr. Gino Vissers will make discreet incisions along the natural creases of the upper eyelids, ensuring that the scars will be hidden. Through these incisions, a small amount of excess skin is carefully excised. For the lower lids, a transconjunctival (inside the lid) approach is often used to avoid external scars.

Instead of simply removing fat, Dr. Vissers meticulously repositions it to fill hollow areas (such as the tear trough). The vital eyelid muscles are preserved to maintain functional strength and a natural "snap" to the lid.

This precise surgical technique results in a more open and refreshed eye appearance, restoring a youthful contour to the upper eyelids. At the end of the surgery, the skin is redraped with minimal tension and closed with fine sutures, ensuring the most inconspicuous healing possible.

Why choose Dr. Gino Vissers in London?

As a triple board-certified consultant plastic surgeon based at Harley Street, Marylebone, Dr. Gino Vissers is a specialist in facial aesthetics. His philosophy of "invisible surgery" aligns perfectly with the preservation technique: delivering results that leave you looking vibrant and healthy, but never "done."

Call 020 375 00 422 or get in touch today to explore treatments and pricing.

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What to expect after upper eyelid surgery?

Recovery from preservation blepharoplasty is often smoother than traditional methods due to the less invasive nature of tissue handling.

Downtime:
Most patients take 7 days off work. Expect some swelling and bruising that will build over the first few days, then diminish, and slowly fade over the next 7-10 days. Dr. Gino Vissers may prescribe you some eye drops and/or ointment during this time for comfort.

Aftercare:
Dr. Vissers provides a bespoke recovery plan, including specific eye drops or ointments to ensure the delicate eye area is protected. Sleep on your back during the first 1-2 weeks to help minimise swelling and improve the healing process. You may wear glasses the day after your surgery, but wait for 2 weeks before using contacts lenses. Patients should also avoid exposing their eyes to the sun, and use sunscreen (SPF50) to protect their scars from sun damage during healing.

Activity:
You may return to light exercise after 2 weeks, while more strenuous activities should be avoided for 4 weeks.

Dr. Gino Vissers will provide detailed post-operative instructions to promote optimal healing and ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery process.

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What is the difference between preservation blepharoplasty and traditional eyelid surgery?

Traditional blepharoplasty focuses on the excision (removal) of excess skin and fat to create a smoother surface. While effective, removing too much tissue can sometimes lead to a "hollowed-out" or skeletonised look as the face continues to age.
In contrast, preservation blepharoplasty is a restorative and volume-stable approach. Rather than simply discarding tissue, Dr. Gino Vissers meticulously repositions the existing fat pads to fill hollows (such as the tear trough) and preserves the vital orbicularis oculi muscle. This maintains the natural "fullness" of a youthful eye while only removing the specific skin necessary to resolve hooding. The result is a refreshed appearance that retains the essential character of your face.
Will I still have scars with preservation blepharoplasty?

All surgical procedures involve incisions, but the preservation technique is designed for maximum discretion. For the upper lids, Dr. Vissers places incisions precisely within the natural eyelid crease, where they are hidden when your eyes are open. For the lower eyelids, Dr. Vissers often utilises a transconjunctival approach, where the incision is made on the inside of the eyelid, leaving no external scar at all. Any external entry points are closed with micro-sutures and typically fade into fine, virtually invisible lines that blend into the natural "smile lines" or shadows of the orbital rim
How long do preservation blepharoplasty results last?

Results of preservation blepharoplasty typically last for ±10 years. This is a natural phenomenon as the eyelids will continue to age after surgery.
What causes eyelid sagging?

Eyelid sagging can develop for several reasons and often becomes more noticeable with time. The most common cause is ageing, as the delicate skin and supporting muscles of the eyelids gradually weaken and lose elasticity. This natural process can lead to drooping upper eyelids, heaviness, and a tired appearance.
Genetics also play a significant role. Some individuals are predisposed to eyelid hooding or early eyelid laxity, which may appear long before other signs of ageing. Structural issues such as weakened levator muscles, neurological conditions, or injury to the eyelid region can further contribute to ptosis.
Other causes may include previous eyelid procedures, eyelid cysts or benign tumours, or a low position of the eyebrows.
If you are concerned about eyelid sagging, a consultation with Dr. Gino Vissers, a leading specialist in eyelid surgery in London, can help determine the underlying cause and the most effective treatment options. Many patients benefit from preservation blepharoplasty designed to restore a refreshed, lifted and naturally rejuvenated appearance.
What age should you be to get eyelid surgery?

There is no age requirement for eyelid surgery, but most patients have this procedure when they are in their 40s or older.
What are the risks of preservation blepharoplasty?

Like any surgical procedure, preservation blepharoplasty has some minor risks, including bleeding, wound problems, and infections. Dry eyes or problems with the eyelids are risks specific to upper eyelid surgery.

Book your preservation blepharoplasty in London

Looking for a consultant plastic surgeon in Harley Street with an expertise in eyelid surgery? Dr. Gino Vissers is ready to help you look and feel your best.