Heavy upper lids, puffy bags under the eyes, a tired look that doesn’t match how you feel — the eyelids are often among the first areas of the face to show age. Blepharoplasty in Madeira is one of the most requested facial procedures for people who want to address these changes surgically. Whether you live on the island or are planning a longer stay, this guide explains what eyelid surgery in Funchal involves, who it may suit, what recovery looks like and why the cooler months can be a practical time to plan it.
What is blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is surgery to remove or reposition excess skin, muscle and fat from the eyelids. It can be performed on the upper lids, the lower lids, or both during the same operation.
Upper blepharoplasty
Upper eyelid surgery treats loose skin that folds over the upper lid and, in some people, partly blocks peripheral vision. The incision sits in the natural eyelid crease, so once it has matured the scar is usually discreet.
Lower blepharoplasty
Lower eyelid surgery addresses under-eye bags — mostly caused by fat that bulges forward — and excess skin or fine wrinkles on the lower lid. Depending on your anatomy, the incision is placed just below the lashes or on the inside of the eyelid (the transconjunctival approach), which leaves no visible skin scar.
Who is a good candidate for eyelid surgery?
You may be a suitable candidate if you:
- have excess skin or drooping upper lids that make you look tired;
- have under-eye bags that don’t improve with rest;
- feel that heavy upper lid skin weighs on your eyes or limits your field of vision;
- are in good general health, are a non-smoker (or can stop around the time of surgery) and have realistic expectations.
Not every droopy eyelid is a blepharoplasty case. Eyelid ptosis, where the muscle that lifts the lid is weakened, and a low brow need different treatment — sometimes a brow lift. Some eye conditions, such as significant dry eye, may also rule out or delay surgery. That is why a proper consultation comes first.
Your consultation in Funchal
At your first appointment I assess the skin, fat pads, brow position and eyelid support, and we talk about what bothers you and what you hope to achieve. We go through your medical history, including any blood-thinning medication such as aspirin or anticoagulants, and an eye examination or visual field test may be requested. Clinical photographs are also taken for your records.
The aim is to understand whether blepharoplasty is the right option for you and which technique fits your anatomy — and to tell you plainly if it isn’t.
The procedure
Blepharoplasty can be done under local anaesthesia, local anaesthesia with sedation, or general anaesthesia, depending on the extent of surgery and your individual case. It usually takes between 45 minutes and two and a half hours, and most patients go home the same day.
On the upper lid, a strip of skin — and, if needed, muscle and fat — is removed. On the lower lid, the fat causing the bags is removed or repositioned and any excess skin is tightened. Fine stitches close the incisions and are usually removed after about a week.
Blepharoplasty recovery: what to expect
For most people recovery is manageable, but it does need some planning.
The first few days
- Swelling and bruising are normal and usually peak within 48 to 72 hours.
- Cold compresses and sleeping with your head raised help settle the swelling.
- Your eyes may feel dry, gritty or watery, and closing them fully may feel slightly difficult at first; lubricating drops or ointment help.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes and don’t drive for the first few days.
The first weeks
- Stitches come out after around one week.
- Many people feel comfortable returning to work and social activities after about a week, depending on their job.
- Avoid strenuous exercise, swimming and contact lenses for around two weeks, or as advised.
- Bruising can take a few weeks to fade completely.
Long-term result
Results appear gradually. Scars may stay pink and slightly firm for a few months before they soften and fade. Surgery doesn’t stop natural ageing, but the effects tend to be long-lasting.
Risks and possible complications
As with any operation, blepharoplasty carries risks, which we discuss in detail at your consultation:
- dry, irritated or watery eyes, usually temporary;
- minor asymmetry between the two sides;
- a collection of blood under the skin (haematoma), infection or more noticeable scarring;
- temporary difficulty closing the eyes completely;
- changes in lower lid position, such as ectropion (the lid turning outwards);
- temporary blurred or double vision and, very rarely, more serious changes in vision.
Careful assessment, a technique tailored to you and following aftercare instructions all help to reduce these risks. If you have severe eye pain, a sudden change in vision or bleeding, contact the medical team straight away.
Why autumn and winter can suit eyelid surgery in Madeira
Madeira enjoys sunshine almost all year round, but sun exposure is generally lower in the cooler months. That matters: fresh scars need protecting from UV, and sunglasses and sunscreen are part of your aftercare routine. Many people also find it easier to take about a week off at this time of year so they can recover without rushing.
That said, there is no single “right season” for everyone. The best time is when you can rest and follow your aftercare properly.
Planning surgery as a visitor or new resident
Madeira’s international community keeps growing, and many people combine a longer stay with treatment. If you are travelling, plan to stay in Funchal for at least 10 to 14 days to allow for the consultation, the surgery, stitch removal and follow-up checks. Check with your airline about flying after surgery, and bring good sunglasses.
Combining blepharoplasty with other treatments
A tired look often has more than one cause. Depending on your assessment, it may make sense to discuss eyelid surgery alongside a brow lift or aesthetic medicine treatments such as botulinum toxin for expression lines. You can read more about each technique on the upper blepharoplasty and lower blepharoplasty pages.
Frequently asked questions
Will blepharoplasty leave a scar?
Yes, as any incision does. On the upper lid the scar lies in the natural crease and usually becomes hard to see over time. For lower lid surgery, the incision can sometimes be placed inside the eyelid, leaving no skin scar.
Is eyelid surgery painful?
Discomfort is usually mild to moderate and well controlled with simple painkillers. Most people describe a heavy, dry or gritty feeling rather than sharp pain.
How long is blepharoplasty recovery?
Stitches are removed after about a week, and most people return to work and social activities at around that time. Final results and scar maturation take a few months.
Can I read or use screens after surgery?
In the first days your eyes tire and dry out easily, so it is best to limit screen time and reading and take frequent breaks. You will receive specific advice for your case.
Are the results permanent?
The effects tend to be long-lasting, but surgery does not stop the skin from ageing naturally. Sun protection and healthy habits help maintain your result.
Can blepharoplasty improve my vision?
When excess upper lid skin blocks part of your field of vision, surgery can improve peripheral vision. This is assessed at consultation, sometimes with a visual field test.
How long should I stay in Madeira if I travel for surgery?
As a general rule, plan for at least 10 to 14 days in Funchal to cover the consultation, surgery, stitch removal and post-operative checks.
Book a consultation in Funchal
Every face and every pair of eyelids is different, and only an individual assessment can tell whether blepharoplasty is right for you and what you can realistically expect. If you are considering eyelid surgery in Madeira, get in touch to arrange a consultation in Funchal.
