Eyelid Surgery in Turkey: Rediscover Your Youthful Gaze with Sanamentum
Reviewed and Approved by Dr. Cagri
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The eyes are the most expressive part of the human face. They convey emotion, vitality, and personality. However, the skin around the eyes is incredibly delicate and thin, making it the first area to show signs of ageing. Whether it is due to genetics, lifestyle factors, or the natural passage of time, drooping upper lids and puffy lower bags can make you look tired, sad, or older than you actually are.
At Sanamentum, we understand that your eyes are central to your identity. Our mission is to provide world-class blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) in Turkey that restores a refreshed, alert, and youthful appearance. By combining the expertise of board-certified surgeons with a patient-centric approach that includes dedicated UK aftercare, we offer a safe and transformative experience for patients traveling from the United Kingdom and beyond.
Fast Facts
- Price: The cost of eyelid surgery is variable, depending on whether you require upper, lower, or combined procedures.
- Duration of Stay: We recommend a 5-day stay in Istanbul for your surgery, initial recovery, and final check-ups.
- Operation Time: The procedure typically takes between 1 and 3 hours, depending on the complexity and number of lids treated.
- Recovery Period: Most patients return to social activities within 7-10 days, with final refined results appearing in a few months.
- Accommodation: Our all-inclusive packages feature stays in hand-picked 4-star hotels for maximum post-surgical comfort.
What is Blepharoplasty? A Detailed Overview
Blepharoplasty is a specialized surgical procedure aimed at correcting the physical and aesthetic concerns of the eyelids. It is not merely about “removing skin”; it is a sophisticated reconstruction of the eye area.
The Anatomy of Ageing Eyes
As we age, the structural integrity of the face changes. The collagen and elastin fibres that keep skin firm begin to break down. In the upper eyelids, this leads to redundant skin that folds over the natural crease. In severe cases, this skin can even rest on the eyelashes, obstructing peripheral vision. This is not just a cosmetic issue; it is a functional one that can affect your quality of life.
In the lower eyelids, the story is different. The orbital septum—a thin membrane that holds fat in place around the eye—weakens. This allows fat deposits to bulge forward, creating “bags.” Simultaneously, the “tear trough” (the area between the lower lid and the cheek) can lose volume, making these bags look even more prominent.
How Sanamentum Restores Balance
Our surgeons at Sanamentum do not use a “one-size-fits-all” approach. They evaluate the relationship between your brow position, your cheek volume, and your eyelid structure. The goal is to remove just enough tissue to refresh the look while maintaining the natural shape and function of the eye. Over-correction can lead to a “startled” look, which we strictly avoid. Our philosophy is natural rejuvenation.
Why Sanamentum is the Standard for Eyelid Surgery in Turkey
When searching for “eyelid surgery Turkey,” the options can be overwhelming. Sanamentum distinguishes itself through a commitment to British medical expectations and Turkish hospitality.
JCI-Accredited Excellence
We operate exclusively in hospitals that hold the Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation. This means the facility is audited against the world’s most stringent healthcare standards. From the sterilization of equipment to the qualifications of the nursing staff, everything is managed to ensure patient safety is never compromised.
Our Expert Plastic Surgery Team
Sanamentum’s Plastic Surgery team in Istanbul is composed of globally recognized and highly experienced surgeons, including Assoc. Prof. Candemir, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Celalettin, Dr. Hakan, Dr. Jacob, and Dr. Cagri. Our surgeons have validated their expertise through decades of practice, academic leadership (receiving the title of Associate Professor), and international accreditation, such as the European Board of Plastic Surgery (EBOPRAS) certification and the EURAPS Young Plastic Surgeon Award. Their extensive surgical background is bolstered by advanced international training at institutions like the Baylor College of Medicine (USA) and Showa University (Japan).
Our team specializes in a wide range of aesthetic and reconstructive procedures, focusing on achieving natural, harmonious results across Rhinoplasty (including Revisional Surgery), Breast Surgeries (augmentation, reduction, lift, and post-cancer reconstruction), Body Contouring (Mommy Makeover, BBL, Vaser Liposuction), and Facial Aesthetics (Facelift, Eyelid Surgery). With strong English communication skills and a patient-centered approach, we provide personalized, safe, and high-quality surgical solutions for patients traveling from the UK, the USA, the Middle East, and worldwide.
UK-Based Aftercare Support
The biggest anxiety for many patients is: “What if I have a question when I get home?” Sanamentum solves this by providing dedicated aftercare support in the UK. You will have a local point of contact to assist with your recovery milestones. This bridge between Istanbul and the UK ensures that you are supported every step of the way, from your initial flight to your final result.
Deep Dive: Upper vs. Lower vs. Combined Blepharoplasty
Each procedure has a specific target and technique. Understanding these helps you visualize your potential results.
Upper Eyelid Surgery: The Lift
This is the most common form of eyelid surgery. The surgeon makes an incision along the natural crease of the upper lid. This ensures that when your eyes are open, the scar is completely hidden. Excess skin is removed, and a small strip of muscle (the orbicularis oculi) may be tightened. If there is protruding fat at the inner corner of the eye, this is also addressed. The result is a more “open” eye that looks bright and awake.
Lower Eyelid Surgery: The Smooth
This addresses the “bags” and dark circles. There are two primary techniques used at Sanamentum:
- Transconjunctival Approach: For patients with bags but no excess skin, the incision is made inside the lower lid. No external scar is visible. Fat is either removed or repositioned to fill in hollow tear troughs.
- Subciliary Approach: If there is loose, “crepey” skin, the incision is made just below the lash line. This allows the surgeon to trim away excess skin and tighten the lower lid structure.
Combined (Quad) Blepharoplasty: The Full Refresh
If you have concerns about both the upper and lower lids, a combined procedure is the most efficient choice. It provides a total transformation of the eye area. Performing both at once means you only undergo one session of anesthesia and one recovery period. It is the gold standard for full-face rejuvenation.
The Full Sanamentum Patient Journey: A Day-by-Day Guide
We believe transparency reduces anxiety. Here is exactly what your 6-day journey in Istanbul looks like.
Day 1: Arrival and VIP Welcome
When you land at the airport, you won’t need to hunt for a taxi. Your private VIP transfer driver will be waiting for you. You will be taken to your 4 or 5-star hotel to check in and rest. Your Sanamentum host will contact you to introduce themselves and confirm your schedule for the following day.
Day 2: Consultation and Transformation
In the morning, you are driven to the hospital. Here, you meet your surgeon for a final, in-depth consultation. They will mark your eyelids and discuss the final plan. After the necessary blood tests and health checks, the surgery takes place. Most eyelid surgeries are performed under local anesthesia with heavy sedation, meaning you are relaxed and pain-free. You will spend a few hours in the recovery room before being discharged back to your hotel (or staying one night in the hospital, depending on the case).
Day 3: Initial Recovery
This is the day of maximum swelling. You will spend it in the comfort of your hotel. Sanamentum provides cooling eye masks and all necessary medications. Your host will be available 24/7 for any questions. We recommend resting with your head elevated and avoiding any screen time.
Day 4 & 5: Gentle Exploration
By day 4, most patients feel well enough to take short, gentle walks. Istanbul is a beautiful city, and as long as you wear your dark sunglasses and avoid the sun, you can enjoy some light sightseeing or a quiet dinner. Our VIP transfers remain at your disposal for any scheduled clinic visits for cleaning and dressing changes.
Day 6: Final Check-up and Return
You return to the clinic for your final check-up. The surgeon removes any non-dissolvable sutures and inspects the healing process. You receive your “Fit to Fly” certificate and final instructions for your care back in the UK. Your VIP transfer then takes you to the airport for your flight home.
The Science of Healing: Your Recovery Timeline
Recovery is a gradual process. Here is what you can expect in the weeks following your return to the UK.
Week 1: The Transition
Swelling and bruising are at their peak in the first 3-4 days but begin to subside quickly thereafter. You may experience some dryness or “grittiness” in the eyes, which is managed with prescribed eye drops. Most patients feel social enough to go out with sunglasses by day 7.
Week 2: Back to Routine
Most patients return to work at this stage. Any remaining bruising can usually be covered with a little concealer. You can resume light activities, but heavy lifting and high-intensity exercise are still off-limits to prevent blood pressure spikes that could affect the incisions.
Month 1-3: Refinement
The “tight” feeling disappears. The incision lines, which may have been slightly pink, begin to fade into a thin, white line that blends into your natural skin. This is when the true results of the surgery become apparent. Your eyes look naturally refreshed, and the “heaviness” is gone.
Personalizing the Results: Tailored Aesthetics
At Sanamentum, we recognize that different patients have different needs. We don’t just perform “eyelid surgery”; we perform surgery for you.
Blepharoplasty for Men
Men are increasingly seeking eyelid surgery to stay competitive in the workplace and feel more confident. However, the male aesthetic requires a different approach. Our surgeons ensure that the brow remains at a masculine height and that the eyes are not “feminized” by over-lifting. The goal is a rugged, well-rested look.
Ethnicity and Anatomy
We respect the unique anatomical features of all our patients. Whether it is preserving the character of an Asian eye or addressing the specific skin thickness of Mediterranean or Middle Eastern patients, our surgeons have the international experience to provide results that are culturally and anatomically harmonious.
Safety First: Managing Risks and Expectations
Every surgical procedure involves risks, and we believe in being honest about them. Potential risks include temporary blurred vision, dry eyes, or slight asymmetry. However, because Sanamentum uses only board-certified surgeons and top-tier hospitals, these risks are minimized to the absolute lowest possible percentage.
During your consultation, we will ask for a full medical history, including any history of dry eyes, thyroid conditions, or high blood pressure. By being thorough in our screening, we ensure that you are only cleared for surgery if it is safe for you.
All-Inclusive Packages: What is Truly Included?
When we say “all-inclusive,” we mean it. We want you to focus on your body’s healing, not on your wallet.
- Surgical Fees: Includes the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and surgical team.
- Hospital Costs: Use of the operating theatre, nursing care, and any necessary overnight stays.
- Accommodation: 4 nights in a luxury hotel with breakfast.
- VIP Transfers: All transportation between the airport, hotel, and hospital in a private vehicle.
- Personal Host: A dedicated Sanamentum representative who speaks perfect English.
- Medication & Aftercare Kit: Everything you need for your initial recovery.
- UK Aftercare: Access to our support team once you return home.
Patient Personal Story: David’s Transformation
“As a 52-year-old lawyer in London, I felt that my tired appearance was starting to affect my professional life. People often thought I was bored or exhausted in meetings when I actually felt great. The bags under my eyes were the main culprit.
I was skeptical about going to Turkey, but Sanamentum’s professionalism won me over. From the moment the VIP car picked me up, I knew I was in good hands. The surgeon was incredibly detailed—he explained that he wouldn’t just cut away the fat under my eyes but would ‘reposition’ it to smooth out my cheeks.
The surgery was painless. The recovery in Istanbul was actually quite relaxing; it felt like a forced holiday. When I got back to the UK, I had one minor question about some swelling, and the UK aftercare team responded within 10 minutes. Now, my colleagues tell me I look like I’ve been on a six-month sabbatical. I look like myself again, just 15 years younger.” — David, 52, London.
Gallery and Reviews
We invite you to explore our extensive gallery of before-and-after photos. These real results show the precision of our surgeons and the natural transformations we achieve daily. Our 5-star rating on Trustpilot reflects our commitment to making every patient’s journey a success.
Risks and Considerations
Although blepharoplasty is considered safe, there are potential risks:
Temporary blurred vision or watery eyes
Swelling, bruising, or asymmetry
Rare complications like infection or bleeding
Choosing a qualified eyelid surgeon in Turkey significantly reduces these risks.
Cost of Eyelid Surgery in Turkey
The cost of blepharoplasty in Turkey is significantly lower than in the UK, US, or Europe, without compromising on quality. Prices may vary depending on whether the patient requires upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both. On average, the cost ranges between:
Eyelid Surgery | Eyelid Surgery Cost Turkey | Eyelid Surgery Cost UK | Eyelid Surgery Cost Europe | Eyelid Surgery Cost US |
Eyelid Surgery Costs | £2,100 – £3,000 | £4,000 – £5,000 | €4,500 – €5,800 | $5,500 – $7,000 |
Sanamentum Doctors
Our Expert Plastic Surgery Team
Sanamentum’s Plastic Surgery team in Istanbul is composed of globally recognized and highly experienced surgeons, including Assoc. Prof. Candemir, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Celalettin, Dr. Hakan, Dr. Jacob, and Dr. Cagri. Our surgeons have validated their expertise through decades of practice, academic leadership (receiving the title of Associate Professor), and international accreditation, such as the European Board of Plastic Surgery (EBOPRAS) certification and the EURAPS Young Plastic Surgeon Award. Their extensive surgical background is bolstered by advanced international training at institutions like the Baylor College of Medicine (USA) and Showa University (Japan).
Our team specializes in a wide range of aesthetic and reconstructive procedures, focusing on achieving natural, harmonious results across Rhinoplasty (including Revisional Surgery), Breast Surgeries (augmentation, reduction, lift, and post-cancer reconstruction), Body Contouring (Mommy Makeover, BBL, Vaser Liposuction), and Facial Aesthetics (Facelift, Eyelid Surgery). With strong English communication skills and a patient-centered approach, we provide personalized, safe, and high-quality surgical solutions for patients traveling from the UK, the USA, the Middle East, and worldwide.
Eyelid Surgery – An Overview
Length of Procedure: | Approximately 1- 3 hours |
Recovery Period: | 5 – 7 days to go back to work |
Complications: | Scars, Bleeding, Seroma, Infection, Extrusion, Swelling, bruising and pain, Asymmetry, Increased or reduced sensation, |
Exercise: | After 3 weeks |
Stay: | 1 night in hospital, 4 nights in hotel |
Scars: | Non-existent after healing |
Potential Candidate: | Patients with sagging eyelids and big eye bags |
Stitches: | Removed in the last check-up by Sanamentum doctor |
Results: | Patients with sagging eyelids and big eye bags |
Combination of Surgeries: | Face lift, eyebrow lift, forehead lift |
Our Patients' Comments on Trustpilot
Here you can read what our patients have to say about their experience. Their genuine feedback reflects the quality of care and results we strive to provide every day. We are proud to share their stories with you.
All-Inclusive Eyelid Package
Here are the details of our all-inclusive eyelid package:
4-Star Hotel
It is important for us that our patients are comfortable during their stay in Istanbul. Sanamentum patients stay at a 4-star hotel that meets their every need.
Medical supplements, shampoo, lotions
Sanamentum provides our patients with the necessary medical equipment that will support their recovery period to have better results.
VIP Transports
Our patients are transported with a VIP car during their stay in Turkey. The car also picks them up from the airport and drops them off for their departure.
Guarantee Certificate
Sanamentum secures every patient with a guarantee certificate so their minds are at ease. Any malfunction will be compansited by Sanamentum.
Personal Host
All our patients are assigned with a personal host who keeps them company to make thier experience better during their stay in Istanbul.
Group Discount
Sanamentum provides a group discount for patients who bring their friends or family with them to get medical treatments.
Aftercare Services
Sanamentum provides free aftercare services in the UK in order to maintain patients’ well-being in the post-operative process.
Flight Tickets
Sanamentum provides free flight tickets and maximum cost savings for patients in Europe and England (Dental treatments excluded).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is eyelid surgery in Turkey safe compared to the UK?
Why is the price of blepharoplasty variable?
Will I be awake during the eyelid surgery?
How long do the results of a blepharoplasty last?
Eyelid surgery is one of the most long-lasting cosmetic procedures you can have. Upper eyelid surgery typically lasts 10 to 15 years, as it takes a long time for the skin to lose its elasticity again. Lower eyelid surgery is often considered a permanent fix for under-eye bags, as the fat pads removed or repositioned do not typically return. While you will continue to age naturally, you will always look younger than you would have without the surgery. A good skincare routine and sun protection will help maintain your Sanamentum results for decades.
How much time do I need to take off work?
For most office-based or sedentary jobs, we recommend taking about 7 to 10 days off. This covers your 5-day stay in Turkey and a few days of rest at home. By day 10, most of the significant bruising and swelling will have faded to a point where it can be easily hidden with sunglasses or a small amount of concealer. If your job involves heavy physical labor or a very dusty environment, we suggest waiting at least 3 weeks before returning to full duties to ensure the delicate incisions are not compromised.
Does the procedure leave visible scars?
Our surgeons are masters of “hidden” surgery. For the upper lids, the incision is placed precisely within the natural crease that forms when your eye is open. For the lower lids, we often use the transconjunctival technique, where the incision is hidden inside the eyelid. Even when an external incision is required for skin tightening, it is placed so close to the lash line that it becomes virtually invisible once healed. Within a few months, these fine lines fade to a color that matches your skin perfectly, making them nearly impossible to see.
Can eyelid surgery improve my vision?
Yes, in many cases, blepharoplasty has a significant functional benefit. When upper eyelid skin becomes extremely saggy, it can hang over the edge of the eyelid and block the upper or peripheral field of vision. This can make activities like driving or reading difficult and can cause eye strain. By removing this excess skin, Sanamentum surgeons can “clear” your field of vision, making your eyes feel lighter and helping you see more clearly. Many patients find this functional improvement just as rewarding as the aesthetic change.
What happens if I have a concern after I return to the UK?
This is where Sanamentum’s UK-based aftercare becomes invaluable. You won’t have to deal with international calling or language barriers. You will have a dedicated contact in the UK who understands your procedure and history. You can send photos, ask questions about your recovery timeline, or seek advice on scar management. If any face-to-face follow-up is deemed necessary, our team will coordinate the best course of action for you. Our goal is to ensure your peace of mind throughout the entire 12-month healing journey.
Can I have eyelid surgery if I wear contact lenses or have had LASIK?
Yes, but special care must be taken. If you have had LASIK surgery, we usually recommend waiting at least six months to a year before undergoing blepharoplasty to ensure your eyes’ tear production has stabilized. If you wear contact lenses, you will need to switch to glasses for about two weeks after surgery to avoid irritating the incisions. During your consultation, it is important to disclose any history of “dry eye” syndrome, as blepharoplasty can temporarily exacerbate this, and our surgeons will adjust their technique accordingly.
What is included in the "recovery kit" provided by Sanamentum?
We provide everything you need so you don’t have to go searching for a pharmacy in a foreign city. Your kit includes prescribed painkillers to manage any post-op discomfort, antibiotic eye drops or ointments to prevent infection, and specialized cooling eye masks to reduce swelling. We also provide detailed, printed instructions on how to clean your eyes and what positions to sleep in. This kit is designed to make your first few days of recovery in Istanbul as smooth and comfortable as possible, ensuring you have the best start to your healing.
