Upper eyelid lift in Zurich

It treats excess upper lid skin that rests on the lid or falls over the lid margin, if necessary together with bulging fat compartments in the inner corner of the lid.

It does not treat a low brow, volume loss in the midface, lower lid findings, movement wrinkles or skin quality. A drooping upper lid caused by weakness of the lid-lifting muscle (ptosis) is also a separate finding and requires a different approach.

Excess skin

Amount and distribution are determined with a relaxed forehead, because unconscious brow raising distorts the findings.

Fat compartments

Bulges usually affect the inner portion. Fat is treated conservatively — removing too much makes the lid look hollow.

Brow position

If the brow sits low, it is often the real cause. The brow position is then planned first, and only afterwards is the skin excess determined.

Eyelid asymmetry

Differences between the sides in lid crease, lid opening and brow height are common and are documented in advance.

Involvement of the midface

A descended midface and shadows at the lower lid intensify the tired impression without the upper lid being responsible.

Ophthalmological findings

Dry eyes, restricted visual field and previous surgery are taken into account in the planning.

The incision lies in the natural lid crease; its outward extent depends on the excess skin. Closure is performed with little tension and fine sutures.

The scar is red at first and fades over months; with the eye open it is generally barely noticeable. Skin type and wound healing influence its course.

The procedure is often performed under local anaesthesia, with sedation if desired, and under general anaesthesia when combined with other procedures. Surgery usually takes about an hour.

After marking in a seated position, the excess skin is removed, fat adjusted if necessary and the lid crease restored.

Swelling and bruising are most pronounced in the first three to five days; cooling and an elevated head position help. Sutures are usually removed after five to seven days.

Office work is often possible after a few days, and most patients are socially presentable after one to two weeks. Sport follows after medical clearance, usually in stages over several weeks.

Contact lenses and eye make-up only after clearance, generally no earlier than about two weeks. Sun protection for the scar is recommended for several months.

Dry eyes

A temporary feeling of dryness or of a foreign body is common; with pre-existing dryness it can last longer.

Asymmetry

Differences between the sides in lid crease or amount of skin may remain or become newly noticeable. Complete symmetry cannot be planned.

Scar visibility

Thickened or distorted scars are possible, as is longer-lasting redness.

Further risks

These include postoperative bleeding, infection, wound healing problems, over- or under-correction and, very rarely, impaired lid closure. Very rare serious complications are discussed during the informed consent consultation.

Revision

Minor corrections are possible after healing is complete, usually no earlier than several months.

If brow position is the main factor, a forehead or brow lift is the more effective measure. For shadows and bulges at the lower lid, a lower eyelid lift should be considered; for marked descent of soft tissues in the lower face, a facelift.

The medical consultation for surgical procedures costs CHF 250. Following the examination, you will receive an individual cost breakdown for the recommended procedure. This should clearly state which services are included.

• Dr. med. Michael W. Payne

  Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery

• Upper eyelid lift or brow lift — decision guide
• Brow lift
• Lower eyelid lift
• Facelift
• Facial surgery — overview

The initial consultation is about clarification, not selling. It does not necessarily end with a surgery date — often it brings the realisation that a different approach, or no procedure at all, is the right choice.

The consultation process

1. 01

   Discussion

   We listen to your concerns, medical history, expectations and what you would like to change about your appearance.

2. 02

   Examination

   A careful clinical examination and assessment of your underlying anatomy.

3. 03

   Options

   Possible procedures, alternatives, limitations and risks — explained clearly and without time pressure.

4. 04

   Time to reflect

   You decide in your own time. Any outstanding questions can be addressed in a further consultation.