Most people don’t realize how much of their expression comes from the eyelids until something shifts. It’s rarely dramatic. It’s small things, makeup that stops sitting right, photos where your eyes look more tired than you felt, under-eye puffiness that doesn’t go away no matter how well you sleep. That’s usually when people start searching for eyelid surgery in Turkey.
The interesting part? It’s not always aging. Some people in their late 20s and early 30s have hereditary under-eye fullness. Others feel heaviness in the upper lids because of how their skin and brow line naturally developed.
And some only notice changes after weight shifts, stress, or long work hours. The “why” varies, but the feeling is the same: your face no longer reflects the energy you live with inside.
According to Cleveland Clinic, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is one of the most effective procedures for restoring openness and brightness around the eyes because it works on the actual structure, not just the surface.
Skincare and lifestyle help the skin, yes, but they can’t reposition fat pads or release heaviness from the lid fold. That’s where surgery fits, not as a shortcut, but as a reset.
Here’s something we’ve seen consistently: People don’t want a different face. They want their face back.
Our 2026 guide will help you understand:
- What’s the real difference between upper and lower eyelid surgery
- How to know which one you need (or if you need both)
- Costs and what they include in Istanbul
- Day-by-day recovery
- How to choose a surgeon who protects your natural expression
At a Glance: Eyelid Surgery in Turkey
What It Treats
- Upper eyelid heaviness or hooded folds
- Under-eye bags and puffiness
- Tired or “closed” looking expression
- Shadowing and lower lid contour irregularities
Who It Helps
Anyone who feels their eyes look more tired than they feel, regardless of age. Some people develop puffiness in their 20s (genetic pattern), others notice loose skin and fullness in their 40s–60s (age-related change).
Average Cost in Turkey
- Upper eyelid: $1,300–$2,400
- Lower eyelid: $1,800–$3,500
- Upper + lower: $2,800–$4,800
Pricing varies with surgeon experience, lid complexity, and whether fat repositioning or canthopexy is included.
Techniques Commonly Used
- Upper blepharoplasty for skin fold release
- Transconjunctival lower blepharoplasty for puffiness without visible incision
- Fat repositioning for smooth under-eye contour rather than hollowing
- Skin pinch for fine creasing when needed
Recovery Snapshot
- First 3 days: swelling + rest
- Day 5–7: stitches removed (if upper lids)
- 7–14 days: comfortable returning to work
- 6–12 weeks: refinement continues, results soften naturally
How Long Results Last
Upper eyelid results often hold for 8–12 years. Lower eyelid improvement usually lasts longer because the contour is structurally corrected, not just tightened.
Eyelid Surgery Turkey Cost
Money questions come fast. And honestly, they should. The price for eyelid surgery in Turkey isn’t just a number; it reflects skill, technique, anesthesia plan, surgical time, follow-up care, and how your healing will be supported.
The wide price range you see online can feel confusing at first. Some clinics advertise blepharoplasty Turkey packages starting around the cost of a weekend trip. Others quote numbers closer to what you’d pay in London or Los Angeles. So what’s real?
Let’s break it down in a way that actually helps you plan:
Most upper eyelid surgery Turkey cost ranges between $1,300–$2,400 at reputable clinics.
Lower eyelid surgery is usually $1,800–$3,500, since the lower lid requires more precision and often involves fat repositioning.
Combined upper + lower tends to fall between $2,800–$4,800 depending on the surgeon’s experience and whether supportive steps like canthopexy are included.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, lower lid surgery tends to carry more variability because technique choice depends heavily on individual anatomy. This is why one-size pricing rarely reflects what you actually need.
Here’s what most blepharoplasty packages Turkey should include:
- Pre-op consultation (online + in-person)
- Local or sedation anesthesia
- Surgery at a licensed surgical facility
- Medications for pain and infection prevention
- Follow-up visits
- Translator and patient coordinator support
- Hotel + airport transfers (common in Istanbul medical tourism setups)
Here’s the emotional part no one mentions: paying less doesn’t feel good if the result feels “off” every time you look in the mirror. The goal is confidence, not a bargain.
A patient we spoke with last year chose the lowest quote she found. The upper lids were fine. The lower lids? Slight hollowing that made her look older. She later had a revision with a surgeon who specialized in fat preservation. The total ended up higher than if she had gone to that surgeon first.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Güncel Öztürk:
“Lower eyelids are about harmony, not removal. Over-resection ages the face. Preservation gives softness.”
If you’re comparing offers, look not for the cheapest. Look for the surgeon who explains why they recommend one technique for your specific anatomy. That clarity is where value lives.
Are You a Good Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?
Here’s something people rarely admit out loud: most of us don’t wake up one morning “deciding” we need eyelid surgery. We notice something. Photos feel unkind. Video calls show more heaviness or puffiness than we remember. The change is usually slow, which makes it even more disorienting.
Being a good candidate for blepharoplasty Turkey isn’t about age as much as pattern. According to Cleveland Clinic, eyelid surgery is most helpful when excess skin or fat affects how open the eyes look or contributes to a consistently tired or “puffy” appearance.
When the issue is anatomy (not sleep, hydration, or skincare), lifestyle changes alone rarely fix it.
You may be a good candidate if:
- Your upper lids feel heavy or hooded, sometimes touching your lashes.
- Under-eye bags remain even after rest.
- You see folding or loose skin that doesn’t “snap back” like it used to.
- Makeup creases or smudges because the skin folds.
- Friends ask if you’re tired even when you’re fine.
Here’s where nuance matters: Some people think they need lower eyelid surgery when the real issue starts above the eyes. Others assume injections alone can solve everything. Both can miss the mark. Eyelid aging usually happens as a combination of skin laxity, fat pad shifts, and muscle support changes.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Güncel Öztürk:
“When assessing eyelids, I look at how the eyebrow rests, how the upper lid crease forms, and how the lower lid transitions into the cheek. The eye area is one unit. Treating only one part can sometimes make the imbalance more noticeable.”
There’s one more thing that some conditions call for waiting:
- Active dry eye symptoms
- Unstable thyroid eye disease
- Untreated blepharitis
- Unrealistic “zero change” expectations
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, patients with dry eye can still have eyelid surgery, but planning is key: gentle tissue handling and tear support measures can help reduce irritation afterward.
If you’re unsure whether your concerns are skin, fat, or support, that’s exactly what the consultation clarifies. Good surgeons explain why they recommend a specific approach, not just what they’ll do.
Upper vs Lower Eyelid Surgery: What’s the Difference and Which One Do You Need?
Most people assume eyelid surgery is one single procedure. It isn’t. Upper blepharoplasty and lower blepharoplasty solve very different problems, and choosing the wrong one is how people end up looking “different” instead of refreshed.
Upper eyelid surgery in Turkey usually focuses on removing or reshaping loose skin that hangs or folds over the natural crease. Think of it as reopening the frame of the eye. When the upper lid is heavy, the whole expression can look sleepy or closed off. The aim is not to pull; it’s to restore the natural crease shape and lift the visual openness.
Lower eyelid surgery is a different story. It’s more about under-eye bags, puffiness, and the shadow that forms between the lower lid and cheek. Here, the key decision isn’t “removal”. It’s fat repositioning versus fat reduction.
And here’s where many people misunderstand the process: Removing too much fat can create hollowness. That can make someone look older, not younger.
According to EyeWiki (an educational resource supported by the American Academy of Ophthalmology), transconjunctival lower blepharoplasty, accessing the fat from the inside of the eyelid preserves the natural lid shape and reduces the chance of eyelid pulling downward. This technique is often chosen when skin quality is still good but puffiness is the main concern.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Güncel Öztürk:
“The eye area works as a unit. Sometimes, the solution is the upper lid, sometimes the lower, sometimes both. The right choice is the one that restores your natural expression, not a generic template.”
If you’re trying to decide which one you need, look not just at the mirror, look at photos from five years ago. What changed first? That’s usually your starting point.
Eyelid Surgery Techniques Explained
This is the part that often feels confusing online. You’ll see terms like upper blepharoplasty, transconjunctival, fat repositioning, skin pinch, and canthopexy, but they’re rarely explained in a way that helps you understand which one fits your anatomy. Let’s simplify it.
Upper Blepharoplasty (Reframing the Eye Opening)
For the upper eyelid, the technique is usually straightforward: remove excess skin, sometimes adjust a bit of fat, and recreate a natural crease. When done well, it doesn’t change your eye shape; it brings back the shape you used to have.
Patients describe it afterwards as looking “more awake”, not “different”. According to Cleveland Clinic, upper eyelid surgery is often recommended when the skin folds start affecting expression or weight on the lashes.
Lower Blepharoplasty (Reducing Puffiness Without Hollowing)
The lower eyelid can be approached from two sides:
- From inside the eyelid (transconjunctival)
- From the outer skin (subciliary/skin-muscle approach)
The transconjunctival method is usually chosen for patients with puffiness but good skin quality. It allows the surgeon to reposition fat instead of removing too much.
According to EyeWiki (AAO-supported), preserving volume helps maintain a smooth transition into the cheek and reduces the risk of the lower lid pulling downward.
If there’s loose skin, a tiny skin pinch or gentle tightening may be added externally. Think of it as smoothing fabric, not stretching it.
Support Procedures (When and Why They’re Added)
Sometimes the surgeon strengthens the outer corner of the eyelid using canthopexy. This isn’t “cat-eye surgery”. It’s subtle support. It helps avoid shape change, especially in patients with naturally weaker lower lid tone or deeper eye shapes.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Güncel Öztürk:
“The best technique is the one that respects how your eyelid meets your cheek. A natural eye has continuity. When we maintain that, the result reads as rested, not operated.”
The right technique isn’t chosen from a menu. It’s chosen from how your tissues move when you blink, smile, and rest.
Eyelid Surgery Recovery Timeline
People usually ask about recovery before they even ask about cost. And it makes sense. Your eyes are how you meet the world. You want to know how long you’ll look swollen, when you can work again, and when you’ll feel like yourself.
According to Mayo Clinic, most swelling from blepharoplasty peaks early and fades steadily over the first 10–14 days, while final refinement can continue for several weeks. But the experience of healing is more human than any chart can describe. So here’s a clear, honest timeline that aligns with what patients commonly share.
Days 1–3: Puffy, Tight, and a Bit Strange
This is when you’ll think, “What have I done?”. Swelling feels strongest in the morning. Cold compresses help. Keeping your head elevated helps more than most people expect. Screens will feel tiring. Sleep is your friend here.
Your job during these days? Rest. Hydrate. Avoid checking the mirror every hour. (Yes, we know you will anyway.)
Days 4–7: Stitches Out, Things Start to Shift
Most upper eyelid sutures are removed around day 5–7. Bruising turns yellow-ish and starts to fade. You’ll look less swollen, but maybe not “normal” yet. People often say this is when they start believing everything is going to turn out well.
Light walks outside help move lymph. No workouts yet. No rubbing. No makeup.
Weeks 2–4: Socially Presentable
Most people go back to work in 7–10 days, but photographs and close-up social events feel safer around week 2–3. At this point, swelling is subtle to others, even if you still see everything.
According to Cleveland Clinic, many patients reach about 70–80% of their final result by the end of the first month, with the rest improving gradually.
Weeks 6–12: Settling Into the New Normal
This is when the result stops feeling like “post-surgery” and starts feeling like you.
Your gaze looks clearer. Photos feel easier. Makeup sits differently, in a good way.
Simple next step: Plan one quiet week and two flexible weeks. That’s usually enough for both upper and lower lids.
Risks & How Experienced Surgeons Reduce Them
No surgery is risk-free. And eyelid surgery sits in a delicate place, your eyes are how you recognize yourself. So the goal here isn’t to scare you, but to give you clarity. When you understand the risks and how surgeons prevent them, the entire decision gets calmer, more grounded.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, most complications from blepharoplasty are avoidable when the surgeon correctly evaluates eyelid support, tear film stability, and fat distribution before surgery. Meaning: the consultation matters as much as the operating room.
Here are the risks people worry about, and how good surgeons reduce them:
Swelling and Bruising
This happens to everyone. It’s part of healing, not a sign of something going wrong. Cold compresses, keeping your head elevated, and gentle activity all help the swelling fade faster.
How surgeons reduce it: Gentle tissue handling during surgery. Precision instead of speed.
Dry or Irritated Eyes
Sometimes the eyes feel watery or gritty afterward. This is usually temporary. It happens because the lids are adjusting to new tension and closure patterns.
How surgeons reduce it: Pre-surgery tear film evaluation, minimal tissue removal, and early use of lubricating drops.
Lower Lid Tightness or Pulling (The One People Fear Most)
This is where experience really shows. Too much skin removal or lack of support can cause the lower lid to pull downward. This is why lower eyelid surgery is not just a cosmetic procedure, it’s structural.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Güncel Öztürk:
“The lower lid is supported like a hammock. If that support isn’t understood, shape can change. When surgeons respect the natural tension lines, results stay soft and stable.”
How surgeons reduce it:
- Choosing transconjunctival access when possible
- Preserving or repositioning fat rather than removing it
- Adding canthopexy when lid support is naturally weak
Asymmetry
Faces are naturally asymmetric already. The surgeon’s job isn’t to make them identical but to make them coherent. This is where artistry matters.
How surgeons reduce it: Operating based on your neutral resting expression, not just your mirror pose.
Why Turkey is a Popular Destination for Eyelid Surgery
There’s a reason people talk about eyelid surgery in Turkey so much. And it’s not just pricing. The real advantage here is experience through repetition. Surgeons in Istanbul and other major medical centers treat large numbers of eyelid cases every week, across many face types, ages, and anatomical patterns.
When a surgeon sees the same variations again and again, they develop a kind of visual intuition, how skin behaves, how fat sits, how lids support themselves over time.
Think of it like a chef who has cooked the same dish thousands of times. The recipe isn’t the skill. The judgment is.
According to ISAPS (International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) global procedure data, Turkey ranks among the top destinations for facial and eyelid surgeries, largely because of surgeon volume and international patient flow.
The more cases a surgeon performs, the more refined their decision-making becomes, especially with delicate procedures like lower blepharoplasty where a single millimeter can change expression.
There’s another element people notice once they arrive: The pacing of care. Most clinics structure the experience with:
- clear pre-surgery consultation steps (often remote-friendly),
- surgery in accredited facilities,
- recovery check-ins,
- and follow-up options even when patients return home.
It feels planned rather than rushed.
A short example we often hear from patients: They originally thought they needed a full lower eyelid surgery. But during the consultation, the surgeon recommended fat repositioning with a small skin pinch, rather than a full external incision. That subtle shift kept the eyes looking natural. The patient later said she felt “recognized” in her reflection again.
Istanbeautiful Note:
“Most of the value in Turkey isn’t the hotel or airport transfer. It’s the surgeon’s eye—how they read your face before touching anything.”
That’s what people are actually traveling for: Someone who knows how to preserve identity while refreshing the gaze.
And yes, packages help with logistics. But the real “experience” is the feeling that your face is understood, not altered.
Top Surgeons for Eyelid Surgery in Istanbul, Turkey
You can find our picks of the best plastic surgeons in Turkey from our below. Our guide provides information based on their procedures, prices, and reviews.
Op. Dr. Ali Cetinkaya
- Website: dralicetinkaya.com
His clinic in Nişantaşı has a quiet, steady atmosphere that feels comfortable for patients who value privacy and space to talk through their goals. He has international training in microsurgery, which shows in how he handles cartilage structure and fine shaping during rhinoplasty.
His rhinoplasty results lean toward natural refinement. You’ll often see bridges that are smooth without being overly narrow and tips that look clean without sharp definition. This style tends to work well for people who want to look like themselves, just more aligned or balanced.
He also performs reconstructive procedures, including trauma-related nasal corrections and congenital deformity repair. His portfolio includes breast augmentation, liposuction, and fat transfer, where planning focuses on body proportion and long-term comfort, not just the immediate visual outcome.
He is also a member of TPRECD and ISAPS, and many patients come to him for revision cases that require careful correction.
Typical surgery costs start around $2,700 and may extend to $5,100, depending on the procedure and structural complexity.
Note: Please fill out the form at the bottom of the page to reach Dr. Cetinkaya to get a quote and consultation, plus special discount.Istanbeautiful Team Insight When we visited, the clinic felt calm and orderly. Conversations with the staff were straightforward and patient-focused. Consultations were unhurried, with time given to understand each person’s expectations. The environment supported clear decision-making rather than pressure or fast commitments.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Guncel Ozturk, FEBOPRAS
- Website: guncelozturk.com
He trained at Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, later continuing his development at Yale University and University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he focused on rhinoplasty and facial aesthetic surgery. He holds European Board (EBOPRAS) certification and became an Associate Professor in 2024.
What often stands out about his approach is the artistic background he grew up with. His father was a sculptor, and that early exposure to form and proportion influences how he evaluates facial balance today.
His rhinoplasty results usually show noses that stay true to a person’s natural characte, smoother lines, clearer definition, and harmony with the face rather than dramatic reshaping.
His clinic in Nişantaşı has a calm, organized rhythm. Consultations include careful facial analysis and discussion of how changes interact with expression, profile, and symmetry. He publishes regularly on preservation rhinoplasty and hybrid reshaping techniques, and his case photography reflects consistency in maintaining identity while improving structure.
The cost of rhinoplasty or facial surgery with Dr. Öztürk generally ranges from $3,800 to $8,100, depending on complexity and revision needs.
Note: Please fill out the form at the bottom of the page to reach Dr. Guncel Ozturk to get a quote and consultation, plus special discount.Istanbeautiful Team Insight During our visit, the conversation felt like a shared evaluation rather than a pitch. He used visual references and sketches to explain adjustments, and the clinic atmosphere supported quiet focus. The environment suggested long-term thinking, not quick decisions.
Op.Dr. Salih Onur Basat, EBOPRAS
- Website: salihonurbasat.com
His rhinoplasty approach generally aims for balanced facial harmony rather than sharp definition. Many of his patients come with the goal of looking natural, rested, and proportionate, and his before/after results reflect that.
In body procedures, especially BBL and tummy tuck, he is known for shaping the waist, hips, and torso together, so the overall silhouette feels cohesive and comfortable.
Surgeries are performed in accredited hospital settings, and recovery plans are structured around comfort and gradual healing. The clinic works with many international patients, which shows in the clarity of communication and post-operative guidance.
Pricing typically ranges between $3,000 and $6,500, depending on procedure type and case complexity.
Patients often mention that he combines steady hands with a grounded, realistic consultation process, especially appreciated in surgeries where shape and contour matter as much as technical steps.
Note: Please fill out the form at the bottom of the page to reach Dr. Basat to get a quote and consultation, plus special discount.Istanbeautiful Team Insight When we visited, the environment felt organized and clear. Staff were confident in their roles, and the workflow moved without rush. The clinic had a direct, practical tone, the kind that reassures you that the systems behind the surgery are just as strong as the surgery itself.
Prof. Dr. Suleyman Tas, FEBOPRAS
Prof. Dr. Süleyman Taş is a European Board-Certified (FEBOPRAS) surgeon with 17 years of experience, known especially for rhinoplasty, including challenging revision cases.
He leads TAS Medical Center in Şişli, where his work focuses on facial balance, clear nasal lines, and structural breathing support. Many of his results show noses that look settled and expressive, not overly narrow or stylized.
He often uses 3D imaging during consultations so patients can understand what kinds of changes make sense for their facial structure. His planning tends to feel steady and analytical. People who choose him usually want clarity: what will change, what won’t, and why. His approach emphasizes small decisions adding up to a result that feels natural, rather than one big dramatic shift.
Beyond rhinoplasty, he performs facial aesthetic procedures that involve reshaping rather than exaggerating features. His clinic attracts international patients, and the environment is structured to support both surgical care and long-term follow-up.
Surgery costs generally range from $3,800 to $6,500, depending on the needs of the case.
Note: Please fill out the form at the bottom of the page to reach Dr. Tas to get a quote and consultation, plus special discount.Istanbeautiful Team Insight During our visit, the atmosphere stood out as calm and polished. The workflow was orderly, and staff communicated clearly. Consultations felt focused on understanding each patient’s facial structure rather than aiming for a single signature look. The space reflected consistency and intention in how everything is run.
Soraca Med
Founded in 2021, Soraca Med has grown quickly by focusing on international patient care and a guided, step-by-step treatment experience. Their philosophy is “be you as you wish”, comes through in how they shape each patient’s planning process. Instead of offering one standard package, they adjust treatment details based on medical needs, comfort level, and travel expectations.
The clinic works across several specialties, including hair transplantation, cosmetic surgery, dental treatments, bariatric procedures, and urology.
It’s a multidisciplinary setup, but not in a scattered way, patient coordination is centralized, which helps keep communication clear. For many traveling patients, that simplicity is what lowers stress.
Most people who choose Soraca Med mention the full-service approach: airport transfers, hotel stay, clinic transportation, medical follow-ups, and the presence of coordinators who speak the patient’s language. It takes away the guesswork that often comes with planning surgery abroad.
Their all-inclusive packages typically begin around $3,000, and include the procedure, medication, accommodation, VIP transfers, and aftercare appointments. The pricing is upfront, which helps patients understand total costs before deciding.
Note: Please fill out the form at the bottom of the page to reach Soraca Med to get a quote and consultation, plus special discount.Istanbeautiful Team Insight When we spoke with the coordination staff, the tone was calm and direct. The emphasis was on making sure patients knew what would happen at every stage. It felt more like a guided process than a sales conversation, the kind of support style that matters when someone is far from home.
Op. Dr. Ali Riza Oreroglu, EBOPRAS
Op. Dr. Ali Rıza Oreroğlu has 19 years of experience in plastic and aesthetic surgery. His work centers on rhinoplasty, facial rejuvenation, and breast aesthetics, with a focus on achieving balance and facial harmony. He trained in Istanbul and continued his development in the United States through fellowships with leading surgeons, which shaped his structured approach to planning and surgical precision.
He holds European Board (EBOPRAS) certification and has received multiple awards in aesthetic surgery.
His rhinoplasty results tend to look calm, settled, and well-integrated with surrounding features. He often combines treatments such as eyelid surgery, neck lift, or mid-face lift when needed, building changes that support the face as a whole rather than focusing on a single feature.
The overall style leans toward quiet elegance, staying away from overly sharp contours or dramatic reshaping. The clinic uses 3D imaging and digital planning systems, helping patients understand how different adjustments may look.
Typical surgical pricing ranges from $3,800 to $7,000, based on case details and combined procedures.
Note: Please fill out the form at the bottom of the page to reach Dr. Oreroglu to get a quote and consultation, plus special discount.Istanbeautiful Team Insight The clinic had a calm rhythm. No rush, no push. Conversations focused on what would look natural years from now, not just next month. The planning tools were used thoughtfully, and the atmosphere suggested steady experience and consistency.
Op. Dr. Guray Yesiladali, FEBOPRAS
Op. Dr. Güray Yeşiladalı has been practicing for over 19 years and is the founder of Vanity Estetik in Şişli. His work spans rhinoplasty, breast surgery, and body contouring, and he approaches each case with a focus on proportion and long-term comfort.
He holds European Board (EBOPRAS) certification, which reflects the structured and evidence-based side of his practice.
His rhinoplasty style generally stays in the natural, balanced range. Changes are visible but not dramatic. In body procedures such as liposuction and breast aesthetics, he pays attention to overall silhouette, often working in a way that keeps the result aligned with a person’s frame rather than chasing high-volume or exaggerated shaping. Many patients choose him for this steady, grounded approach.
Surgical procedures with Dr. Yeşiladalı generally range between $3,500 and $6,000, depending on the needs and combination of treatments.
Note: Please fill out the form at the bottom of the page to reach Dr. Yesiladali to get a quote and consultation, plus special discount.Istanbeautiful Team Insight The tone of the clinic felt confident but relaxed. No rush, no pressure. Staff communication was smooth, and patient interactions looked warm and attentive. The place gave a sense that many small details are handled quietly in the background, which often matters more than big promises.
Op. Dr. Safa Manav, FEBOPRAS
Op. Dr. Safa Manav has over 13 years of experience and is known for rhinoplasty that feels natural and proportional. His focus is on adjusting the nose in a way that fits the person’s existing facial structure rather than aiming for a single ideal shape. This approach appeals to patients who want a noticeable improvement without looking like they’ve “had work done”.
He performs both primary and revision rhinoplasty, along with facial rejuvenation and body contouring procedures. His technique prioritizes structure and breathing support, which can matter a lot for patients who are worried about losing function after surgery.
He is a member of ISAPS, and he has been recognized for his contributions in aesthetic surgery over the years.
Surgery costs with Dr. Safa Manav generally range from $3,000 to $5,500, depending on the complexity and method.
Note: Please fill out the form at the bottom of the page to reach Dr. Manav to get a quote and consultation, plus special discount.Istanbeautiful Team Insight The clinic atmosphere suggested clarity and steady attention. Conversations were unrushed, and the surroundings felt intentionally designed for comfort. The impression was of a practice that values listening and thoughtful planning over fast decisions.
Eyelid Surgery Before & After Results and Longevity
The most surprising part of blepharoplasty is how subtle the best results look. It’s not about looking different. It’s about removing the visual noise, the heaviness, the puffiness, the fatigue—that’s been sitting over your expression. The outcome often feels like someone gently turned the lights back on.
What Changes After Upper Eyelid Surgery
When the upper lid is lifted and the natural crease is redefined, the eyes look more open. Not wider. Not stretched. Just more you.
Makeup applies more smoothly. Photos feel easier. And many people mention that their face looks calmer, even when they’re not smiling.
A detail worth noting: surgeons who focus on preserving natural crease anatomy tend to deliver the most unnoticeable (in the good way) results. According to Cleveland Clinic, upper lids often settle into their final shape within 6–12 weeks as swelling softens and skin texture evens out.
What Changes After Lower Eyelid Surgery
Lower lids are more about contour than lift. The goal is reducing that under-eye puffiness and smoothing the transition into the cheek. When fat is repositioned rather than removed, the result reads as rested, not hollow. This approach also ages more gracefully because volume loss is part of how the face changes over time.
Lower lids take slightly longer to “forget” they were operated on, often 8–16 weeks for that fully natural look.
How Long Do Results Last?
This is one of the most common questions. Most people maintain their upper blepharoplasty results for 8–12 years, sometimes longer. Lower lid results tend to last even longer, because fat repositioning improves structure rather than just removing tissue.
A small case example: One traveler we spoke with returned to Istanbul for a different treatment five years later. Her eyelids? Still balanced. Still soft. She said the change didn’t make her look younger, it made her look like she finally matched her own energy again.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Güncel Öztürk:
“Longevity comes from preserving what’s already yours. When you keep the natural volume and support, the result holds with time instead of collapsing.”
Aging will continue, of course. But eyelid surgery doesn’t “wear off”. The refreshed structure simply becomes your new normal.
Traveling to Turkey for Eyelid Surgery
If you’ve never traveled for a medical procedure before, it’s normal to imagine it feeling complicated. But eyelid surgery in Turkey is one of the most commonly coordinated treatments for international patients, which means the process is surprisingly structured.
Most clinics have dedicated coordinators, clear pre-surgery preparation steps, and aftercare follow-ups that continue once you’ve returned home. You won’t be figuring things out alone.
Here’s how the timing usually works:
Consultation Phase (Online & In-Person)
The process usually begins with an online consultation. You’ll be asked to submit close-up photos of your eyes and provide medical history. Based on this, a certified eyelid surgeon in Istanbul evaluates your suitability for upper or lower blepharoplasty.
Once you arrive, a face-to-face consultation is arranged to confirm the treatment plan and answer questions.
When to Arrive
Most patients fly into Istanbul 1–2 days before surgery. This allows time for:
- In-person evaluation
- Updated photos
- Medical history review
- And a calm mindset before the procedure
This is also when your surgeon confirms the final plan. Even when the consultation happened online first, this face-to-face moment matters.
How Long to Stay
You’ll want to stay in Turkey for 6–8 days post-surgery. Here’s why:
- Stitches (if upper lids) are usually removed around day 5–7
- Swelling is easiest to manage when you’re nearby
- You’ll have a follow-up check before flying home
This is the part where patients often feel relieved, they realize they don’t have to “monitor” their own healing. Someone is watching over the process.
What It Feels Like Day-to-Day
Your routine becomes simple:
- Sleep with your head slightly elevated
- Short walks help circulation
- You’ll apply cold compresses during the early days
- You’ll avoid sun, makeup, and workouts until cleared
It’s quiet time. Some people use it as a reset. Think slow mornings. Warm tea. Not rushing anywhere.
Istanbeautiful Note:
“The trip feels less like medical tourism and more like a pause from daily life. Most patients say the best part wasn’t the hotel or the city, it was finally having time to look at themselves kindly again.”
Returning Home
You can fly once your surgeon confirms closure, usually after the final check. Mild swelling during travel is normal.
Plan your first week back with soft schedules, emails, calls, nothing high-definition. You’ll blend back into daily life more smoothly than you expect.
Travel, Visa & Legal Considerations for Eyelid Surgery in Istanbul
Planning eyelid surgery in Istanbul isn’t just about choosing the right clinic. There are a few practical steps patients often overlook until the last minute: travel timing, visa rules, medical paperwork, and what’s legally required for surgery in Turkey. Keeping these simple makes the whole experience feel calm and organized.
Visa Basics
Most travelers don’t need anything complicated to enter Turkey for medical care. Many nationalities can enter visa-free for short stays, while others use the e-Visa system, which usually takes just 5–10 minutes online. It’s straightforward, no extra medical authorization required.
If you’re unsure, check the official Turkish e-Visa portal or your country’s travel advisory. (Use only official government sites, not third-party visa agencies charging extra fees.)
Travel Timing
Your best schedule is:
- Arrive 1–2 days before surgery
- Stay 6–8 days after surgery
- Fly home after your final post-op check
This allows time for:
- Healing to stabilize
- Stitches removal (if upper lids)
- Swelling transition through the first few days
Trying to shorten this window can make healing feel rushed, especially during the first 72 hours when rest matters most.
Legal & Medical Facility Requirements
Turkey’s medical system requires cosmetic surgeries to be performed in licensed hospitals or surgical centers, not informal clinic rooms. This is a non-negotiable safety standard.
Here’s what to look for before you book:
- The clinic should provide the hospital license number upon request.
- The surgeon should have a medical practice registration you can verify.
- The operating facility must have emergency support resources on-site.
Travel Insurance Tip
Standard travel insurance rarely covers elective surgery. But you can get trip coverage that protects your flights and hotel in case your surgery date shifts. It costs less than most people expect and removes stress.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
This is the moment where everything comes together. The price, the travel, the technique conversations, none of it matters if the surgeon doesn’t truly see your face instead of applying a template.
Here’s the pattern we’ve seen again and again: People get the best results when they choose the surgeon who explains why they recommend a specific approach for your lids. Not the one who only says what they will do.
You don’t need to become an expert in eyelid anatomy. You just need to ask the right questions.
Your 8-Point Surgeon Selection Checklist
Ask these during your consultation (online or in person):
- How many eyelid surgeries do you perform per month? Volume matters here.
- Do you usually preserve fat or remove it in lower lids? Look for preserve -> reposition, not default removal.
- How do you evaluate lower lid support before deciding on canthopexy? You want a thoughtful explanation, not a quick answer.
- Will you show me photos of results on faces similar to mine? Skin thickness, eye shape, and cheek contour matter.
- What is your approach to maintaining natural crease flow in upper lids? You’re listening for subtlety, not stretching.
- How do you manage dry eye history if present? This reveals how protective they are of function, not only aesthetics.
- What is the follow-up schedule after I return home? A healing plan shows commitment.
- Who do I contact if I have a concern at week two or week six? Consistency > convenience.
Istanbeautiful Note:
“A surgeon who takes time to explain is already giving you a gift: clarity. If you feel rushed or unheard during consultation, the experience will not magically improve later.”
A Simple Guiding Thought
Choose the surgeon who asks you the most questions. Not the one who tries to sell you the fastest.
The one who studies your photos. Not the one who jumps to a quote.
The one who talks about preserving character, not erasing age.
Because the goal isn’t to look younger. The goal is for your reflection to catch up to the way you feel inside.
Verify the Clinic in 2 Minutes
Before you fall for Instagram testimonials or five-star reviews, do this first: check if the clinic is licensed by the Turkish Ministry of Health (Sağlık Bakanlığı). It takes two minutes, and can save you from a lifetime of regret.
Step 1: Search the Ministry of Health Registry
Go to the official Ministry of Health “Health Professionals” database on healthturkiye.com, that this is where you can confirm hospitals, doctors, and clinics.
For “Facilitators with International Health Tourism Authorization Certificates”, find them on healthturkiye.com. It can be hard to search but you are getting familiar.
- Search the healthcare professional, hospital, agency, or the clinic’s full legal name.
- Check that the address matches what’s listed on their website.
- Make sure there’s a responsible doctor listed. That’s the person legally accountable for medical procedures performed there.
If the clinic doesn’t appear, or if the name differs slightly (“HairMed” vs “HairMedix,” for example), it’s not licensed. The Ministry issues licenses only to facilities that pass strict health inspections for sterilization, emergency equipment, and staffing.
Step 2: Confirm through USHAŞ (International Health Services Inc.)
USHAŞ, a public agency under the Ministry of Health, maintains an English-language support line and online form for international patients. They can verify if a clinic is authorized to treat foreign visitors.
- Visit the USHAŞ official website and look for the “Authorized Health Institutions” section from https://shgmturizmdb.saglik.gov.tr
- Or email their support team with the clinic’s name and city; they’ll respond within a few business days.
USHAŞ also helps resolve disputes and ensures medical tourism standards are met. In 2024, they processed over 1,200 patient verification requests, most involving hair transplant clinics in Istanbul and Ankara.
If a clinic passes the Ministry license, USHAŞ authorization, and surgeon verification, you’re dealing with a legitimate medical facility. If not, no price tag or glossy marketing should convince you otherwise.
Statistics & Trends About Eyelid Surgery
- Upper eyelid surgery remains one of the top cosmetic procedures worldwide. According to ASPS, upper blepharoplasty consistently ranks in the top 5 most performed facial procedures in adults aged 40+.
- Demand for lower eyelid surgery has grown steadily over the last 5 years. ISAPS data shows a ~12–16% increase globally as more patients seek natural under-eye smoothing rather than fillers.
- Turkey is among the top destinations for facial aesthetic procedures and eyelid surgery is one of the most requested treatment categories among international patients.
- Lower eyelid surgery has a higher technique variation. Research published in PubMed shows surgeons choose fat repositioning in approximately 60–70% of modern lower-lid cases instead of traditional fat removal.
- Most patients return to work within 7–10 days after upper or combined blepharoplasty, while social comfort for photos typically improves around 2–3 weeks.
- Full healing continues quietly beneath the skin. Various clinical healing studies indicate that 80–90% of swelling resolves within 6–8 weeks, while the final refined contour may continue developing up to 3–6 months.
- Vision obstruction due to upper eyelid drooping is more common than people think. NHS clinical guidance notes that some patients meet criteria for functional improvement when excess skin affects the visual field.
- Age range is wider than expected. In Turkey, patients seeking eyelid surgery commonly range from late 20s (hereditary puffiness) to late 60s (skin laxity and lid heaviness).
- Men are increasingly seeking eyelid surgery. Recent ISAPS procedural data suggests a steady rise of 6–9% in eyelid surgery requests from men, mostly motivated by tired-looking eyes in professional environments.
- Lower lid hollowing is now one of the most avoided outcomes. Modern training programs emphasize volume preservation, reflecting findings that over-removal of fat during eyelid surgery has been associated with an “aged” or “sunken” look long-term.
Common Patient Questions & Answers
Is Turkey a safe place for eyelid surgery?
Yes, Turkey is considered safe for eyelid surgery when performed in certified clinics by experienced surgeons. Major cities like Istanbul have internationally accredited facilities and medical tourism regulations to protect patients.
How long is the recovery after eyelid surgery in Turkey?
Most patients can return to light activities within 5 to 7 days. Swelling and bruising typically fade by the second week. Full recovery and final results can be seen within 6–8 weeks.
What’s included in an all-inclusive blepharoplasty package in Turkey?
These packages usually cover the surgery, pre-op consultation, post-op checkups, hotel accommodation, airport transfers, and sometimes a translator or companion service. Be sure to ask for a detailed list from the clinic.
Who is a good candidate for eyelid surgery in Turkey?
Ideal candidates include individuals with sagging eyelids, under-eye bags, or droopy upper lids that affect vision or appearance. A medical evaluation is necessary to confirm eligibility.
Are the results of eyelid surgery in Turkey permanent?
Yes, results are long-lasting, often 8–10 years or more. However, aging continues, so minor changes may occur over time. A good skincare routine and sun protection can help extend the results.
Can I combine eyelid surgery with another cosmetic procedure in Turkey?
Yes, many patients combine eyelid surgery with a facelift, brow lift, or neck lift for a more complete rejuvenation. This can often be arranged as part of a single surgical session.
What is the difference between upper and lower eyelid surgery?
Upper eyelid surgery removes sagging skin or fat that causes droopiness, while lower blepharoplasty targets puffiness and under-eye bags. Some patients require both for full correction.
Will there be visible scars after eyelid surgery?
Scars are minimal and usually hidden in natural eyelid creases or inside the lower lid (transconjunctival approach). They fade significantly over time and are barely noticeable.
How do I choose the best eyelid surgeon in Istanbul?
Look for certified plastic surgeons with a portfolio of successful eyelid procedures. Reading verified patient reviews and viewing before-and-after photos can help you make an informed choice.
References
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) – Blepharoplasty overview and functional indications
- EyeWiki (AAO-affiliated) – Lower eyelid anatomy, fat repositioning, and transconjunctival approaches
- Mayo Clinic – Recovery expectations, swelling timelines, normal postoperative symptoms – https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/blepharoplasty/about/pac-20385174
- Cleveland Clinic – Eyelid surgery candidate guidance and healing experience
American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) – Global procedure statistics and cost context – https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/eyelid-surgery - National Institutes of Health (NIH / PubMed) – Modern preference for fat repositioning vs removal – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ (search: “fat repositioning blepharoplasty outcomes”)
- International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) – Global aesthetic procedure trends and Turkey’s case volume
- UK NHS – Criteria for functional upper eyelid surgery in cases of visual field obstruction – https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cosmetic-procedures/eyelid-surgery/
- Türkiye Ministry of Health – Medical tourism facility licensing and clinic standards (T.C. Sağlık Bakanlığı) – https://www.saglik.gov.tr
- JCI (Joint Commission International) – Hospital and surgical center accreditation verification – https://www.jointcommissioninternational.org