Scars are an inevitable part of any surgical procedure, including blepharoplasty, but the way they develop and how noticeable they become is influenced by several factors. Understanding these factors can give a clearer picture of what to expect in the weeks and months after eyelid surgery.

Blepharoplasty (or eyelid surgery) is performed to address excess skin, fat, or muscle around the eyelids. The incisions are usually placed in natural folds or along the inner surface of the eyelid, depending on whether the upper or lower eyelids are treated. The position of these incisions plays a major role in determining how visible any resulting scars will be.

How are incisions made in blepharoplasty?

For upper eyelids, the incision is typically placed along the crease of the eyelid. This allows the incision to align with the natural lines of the eyelid, making the scar less noticeable over time. The length of the incision will depend on the amount of skin or tissue that needs to be removed. Surgeons aim to make the incision as precise and fine as possible, minimising the trauma to surrounding tissue.

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty can be approached in two main ways. A transcutaneous incision is placed just below the lash line, while a transconjunctival incision is made on the inside of the lower eyelid. The transconjunctival approach avoids external scars entirely, as the incision is hidden on the inner surface. The choice of technique will depend on the patient’s anatomy and the type of correction required.

What happens to scars after surgery?

Straight after surgery, the incision lines will be red, raised, and slightly swollen. This is a normal part of the healing process. The body is responding to tissue trauma by increasing blood flow to the area, which can make the scars more prominent in the initial weeks.

Over time, the redness and swelling gradually reduce. The scar tissue begins to mature, becoming flatter and paler. This process can take several months and sometimes up to a year. Even when fully matured, the scar may not completely disappear, but its visibility will be significantly reduced, especially when the incision is placed within natural creases.

Does scar appearance vary between patients?

The appearance of scars can vary widely from one person to another. Factors such as skin type, age, genetics, and how an individual’s body heals can all influence scar formation. Some people may develop very fine, almost invisible lines, while others may form thicker or slightly more noticeable scars.

Sun exposure can also affect scar appearance. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can darken scars during the healing phase, making them more noticeable. It’s important to protect the eyelid area with hats or sunscreen once the incision has healed enough to tolerate light exposure.

How can scarring be minimised?

Precision during surgery plays a large role in reducing scarring, but post-operative care is equally important. Following the instructions for cleaning and caring for the incision helps prevent irritation or infection, which can worsen scar formation. Avoiding strain on the eyelid area, including heavy rubbing or pulling, is also recommended during the early healing phase.

In some cases, surgeons may recommend using silicone-based gels or sheets once the incision has healed enough. These can help flatten and soften the scar tissue, supporting the natural maturation process. While these measures don’t eliminate scars entirely, they can significantly improve how discreet the incision lines appear over time.

When do scars start to fade?

The majority of visible changes in scar appearance occur within the first three to six months after surgery. During this period, redness diminishes, and the scar tissue softens. By around the twelve-month mark, most scars have reached their mature state. While they may still be faintly visible under close inspection, scars from blepharoplasty rarely attract attention due to their placement within natural folds.

It’s important to remember that individual healing timelines vary. Some patients may notice significant improvement in just a few months, while others may take longer. Consistent care and follow-up appointments allow the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns promptly.

How do surgeons plan for minimal scarring?

When planning blepharoplasty, incision placement is carefully considered to make scars blend with natural lines and creases. The surgeon also takes into account the thickness and elasticity of the skin, as these factors influence how well a scar will heal. Precise alignment of the edges during closure and careful handling of tissue reduce tension on the incision, which helps prevent widening or noticeable scarring.

What should you expect immediately after surgery?

Immediately after blepharoplasty, the incision lines will be clearly visible. Swelling and bruising around the eyes are common, which can temporarily exaggerate the appearance of the scars. Sutures are usually removed within a week, and patients may notice some tightness or mild irritation along the incision lines. Proper cleaning and gentle care are essential at this stage to support the healing process.

What long-term appearance can you expect from scars?

Most scars from blepharoplasty become very thin and pale over time. Upper eyelid scars tend to be hidden within the natural crease, while lower eyelid scars from a transcutaneous approach lie just beneath the lashes, making them difficult to see. Transconjunctival incisions produce no external scars. The final appearance depends on how your skin heals, but even when scars remain faintly visible, they are rarely noticeable in normal daily life.

Dr Laniewski: Blepharoplasty in Sydney (Woollahra) & Central Coast (Bella Vista & Erina)

Dr Peter Laniewski is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years of advanced surgical training and clinical experience.

Understanding how blepharoplasty scars develop and what influences their appearance highlights the importance of careful surgical planning and precise technique. Surgeons who perform this procedure can discuss incision options and post-operative care strategies tailored to individual anatomy, helping manage expectations and support optimal healing.

Please contact our team to book a consultation with Dr Laniewski in Sydney (Woollahra), or Central Coast (Bella Vista or Erina).

Further reading about the blepharoplasty procedure:

Does Blepharoplasty Leave Any Scars? 24/02/202609/01/2026 by Dr Peter Laniewski