...

Blepharoplasty Scars: Everything You Need To Know

Written by an Expert Aesthetic Content Writer Lisa.
Reviewed by Expert Medical Director Dr. Raj Thethi
Published on: February 20, 2025
Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty Scars

Many people wonder if eyelid surgery will leave visible scars. The answer is usually no. The skin around the eyes is very thin and heals well, which helps hide any incision lines.

For upper eyelid surgery, the scar is usually made in the natural crease of the eyelid. When your eyes are open, it’s hard to see. For lower eyelid surgery, the incision is often made just below the lash line or within the eyelid, blending with the skin’s natural shapes.

Over time, these scars fade and become very hard to notice, even from up close. If any faint lines remain, a little concealer or makeup can easily cover them. Most people find that the final results look completely natural, and the scars are nearly invisible.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about blepharoplasty scars.

What Are Blepharoplasty Scars?

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, involves making tiny incisions to remove or adjust skin, fat, or muscle around the eyes. Just like any surgery, this process creates small scars, but they’re placed so carefully that most people hardly notice them once healed.

Surgeons usually hide the incision lines within the natural folds of your eyelids. For the upper eyelids, the scar sits in the crease, which means it’s hidden when your eyes are open. For the lower eyelids, the incision is made either just below the lash line or inside the eyelid, leaving no visible marks on the skin’s surface.

These scars start out slightly pink or red but fade over time as your skin heals. With proper care, they blend smoothly into your natural skin tone and often become nearly invisible within a few months.

Types of Scars from Blepharoplasty

Wondering what a blepharoplasty looks like? Here are some types of scars you may expect:

01. Flat or Faded Scars

These are the most common and ideal results. They start out slightly red or pink, then fade to match your skin tone over a few months. In most cases, these scars become barely noticeable.

02. Raised Scar

A raised, bumpy, or ridged scar occurs when excess collagen is produced during healing. Although it may appear noticeable, it improves over time or with treatment.

03. Hypertrophic Scar

These scars are raised within the area of the incision. They may initially be red or purple in colour, but with proper care, they become flattened over time.

04. Dark Scars (Hyperpigmentation)

These are darker than your skin because of extra melanin. They are more common in people with darker skin tones and usually fade on their own, but lightening creams can help.

Consultation

Ready to achieve your aesthetic goals?

  • CQC-Registered Clinic with Nationally Recognised Leadership
  • Over a Decade of Surgical & Aesthetic Expertise
  • Personalised treatment plans tailored to your needs

05. Keloid Scars

Keloid types are thick, raised scars that grow beyond the incision. They’re rare on eyelids but can happen if you’re prone to them. Treatments like injections or surgery may be needed.

When will Blepharoplasty Scars Fade Away?

Blepharoplasty scars do not vanish overnight; they fade in the right course with proper care. Here’s what you may anticipate:

  • During the first weeks: Your scar may still be pink or red in colour, possibly tender.
  • 1 to 2 months: Your blepharoplasty scar should start fading to blend well into your skin.
  • 6 to 12 months: The marks are usually shallow and not too prominent.

Every person heals at his or her own pace. Several factors, including age, skin type, and aftercare, also dictate how fast or slow someone’s scars become unnoticeable.

How Blepharoplasty Scars Heal

Blepharoplasty scars go through several healing stages before they fade completely. The skin around your eyes is thin and heals faster than other parts of the face. Here’s what usually happens after surgery:

01. Week 1: Early Healing

After surgery, the incision lines may look pink, red, or a bit swollen. This is normal. You might see some bruising and feel tightness around your eyes. Keeping the area clean, using prescribed ointments, and applying cold compresses can help reduce swelling.

02. Weeks 2-4: Settling Phase

By the second or third week, most swelling and bruising start to go away. The scars may still look pink, but the area begins to smooth out. At this stage, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s aftercare advice, especially avoiding rubbing or stretching your eyelids.

03. 1-3 Months: Fading and Softening

During these months, the scars become lighter and softer. Any tightness around your eyelids eases, and your incision lines start to blend with the skin. Some people begin using silicone gels or scar creams if their surgeon approves.

04. 6-12 Months: Mature Healing

Most scars are flat, pale, and nearly invisible by this time. The skin keeps getting better in both texture and color. It’s especially important to protect the area from the sun during this stage to prevent the scars from darkening.

Here are 8 Tips To Prevent Eyelid Surgery Scars

01. Choose an Experienced Practitioner

While you understand how to qualify for eyelid surgery, choosing an expert surgeon also matters. Ensure they are a board-certified surgeon with experience in eyelid surgery—they will make precise incisions in hidden areas, reducing the risk of visible scars.

02. Follow Post-Surgery Instructions

Follow your doctor’s postoperative guidelines. Keep the incision dry and clean, apply ointments, and avoid touching the area unnecessarily.

03. Use Cold Compresses

Apply cold compresses in the first 48 hours after the surgery to decrease swelling and pain.

04. Take Care of the Wound

Keep the surgical area clean and follow your surgeon’s instructions for bandage removal and suture care. This will help prevent infection and support optimal healing.

05. Avoid Strenuous Activities

Limit activities that strain your eyes or body during the recovery period. Rest is important for healing properly.

06. Protect your Eyes from the Sun

Keep the healing incisions out of the sun, as UV rays will darken scars and prolong healing. Sunglasses or sunscreen, as recommended by your surgeon, are helpful.

07. Look for the Scar Treatments

Ask about scar treatments when your surgeon confirms that the incisions have healed. The doctor may prescribe silicone sheets, creams, or scar gels to minimise their appearance.

08. Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Prefer having a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking. Avoid alcohol and smoking. These practices support the body’s natural healing processes and can lead to better scar outcomes.
By following these tips and working closely with your surgeon, you can minimise the chance of scarring and enjoy a smooth recovery.

Final Thoughts on Blepharoplasty Scars

Blepharoplasty scars are a normal part of the healing process, but they usually fade to become almost invisible. With proper care and protection from the sun, most scars blend naturally into the skin within a few months. Choosing an experienced oculoplastic surgeon and following their aftercare advice helps ensure the best results. 

In Leeds, Mr Jeeva specialises in upper and lower eyelid surgery, using precise techniques to minimise scarring and create natural-looking results. If you’re considering blepharoplasty, a consultation can help you understand the process and what to expect during recovery.

Consultation

Ready to achieve your aesthetic goals?

  • CQC-Registered Clinic with Nationally Recognised Leadership
  • Over a Decade of Surgical & Aesthetic Expertise
  • Personalised treatment plans tailored to your needs

FAQS

01. How to cover blepharoplasty scars?

The scars of lower blepharoplasty are well hidden; however, you may wear makeup or sunglasses to conceal the scars until they fade away.

02. How do you soften scars from eyelid surgery?

You may apply silicone gel 2-3 months after the surgery to soften the scars and reduce their appearance over time.

03. How long after blepharoplasty will your eyes look normal?

The final results of blepharoplasty may be noticeable in 2-3 months after the swelling and bruising subside and the eye’s appearance improves.

04. Can you apply scar cream after blepharoplasty?

Yes, when the incisions have fully healed, you may apply a scar cream prescribed by your doctor.

05. Do blepharoplasty scars go away?

Yes. Blepharoplasty scars usually fade so well that they’re almost invisible over time. They may look pink or slightly raised at first, but within a few months, they soften and lighten. Full healing can take up to a year, depending on your skin and aftercare.

06. Should I massage blepharoplasty scars?

Yes, a gentle massage can help. Once your surgeon says it’s safe (usually after about 10 days), lightly massaging the area each day can improve blood flow and help the scars heal faster.

Connect with Us

Please provide your details, and we will get back to you shortly.

About Dr. Raj Thethi - Medical Reviewer

Dr. Raj Thethi

Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC-registered medical clinic. It is led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetics. Dr Raj Thethi is a Northern Territory Regional Expert for an international dermal filler company called Teoxane. He also sits on their National UK Faculty.

View all posts by Dr. Raj Thethi

Recent Posts

Request a Call Back

Request a Call Back

Explore Personalised Beauty Solutions

Connect with Us

Please provide your details, and we will get back to you shortly.

Connect with Us

Please provide your details, and we will get back to you shortly.

Request a Call Back

“ Your journey to skin perfection starts here. Leave your details, and our expert team will be in touch shortly.”

Please provide your details, and we will get back to you shortly.

Book a
Consultation

5/5

Excellent 470+ Reviews

on  Google Logo

Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty, also known as an eye lift, is a surgical procedure performed on the eyelids to improve their appearance. It can address concerns like:

  • Excess skin on the upper eyelids: This can obstruct vision and create a hooded appearance.

  • Bags under the lower eyelids: These can make you look tired or aged.

  • Drooping lower eyelids: This can also obstruct vision and contribute to a tired appearance.


Types of Blepharoplasty:

  • Upper blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the upper eyelids, removing excess skin and sometimes fat or muscle tissue.

  • Lower blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the lower eyelids, removing excess fat or skin and sometimes repositioning tissues.

  • Asian blepharoplasty: This addresses specific concerns related to the anatomy of Asian eyelids, creating a more defined crease.