Upper eyelid correction

A fresh, open look – without looking like you've had “work done”

Drooping upper eyelids can make a face look tired, gloomy, or closed. Often, this is not only an aesthetic issue, but also causes functional complaints, such as a heavy feeling on the eyes or even a restricted field of vision.

An upper eyelid correction is a relatively minor procedure, but it nevertheless requires careful analysis, precision, and aesthetic insight. After all, the eye area is decisive for a person's appearance.

At Gooimeer Clinics, upper eyelid corrections are always performed by experienced plastic surgeons, with the aim of achieving a natural and relaxed result that suits your face.

Facelift
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When is an upper eyelid correction advisable?

An upper eyelid correction can be beneficial if you experience:

  • sagging skin of the upper eyelids

  • a heavy or pressing feeling on the eyes

  • a tired or downturned appearance

  • difficulty keeping the eyes fully open

  • in some cases: a restricted field of vision

It is important to assess what is causing these concerns. Not every “heavy look” is caused by excess eyelid skin; the position of the eyebrows or forehead can also play a role. We always include this in our assessment.

When is an upper eyelid correction advisable?

An upper eyelid correction can be beneficial if you experience:

  • sagging skin of the upper eyelids

  • a heavy or pressing feeling on the eyes

  • a tired or downturned appearance

  • difficulty keeping the eyes fully open

  • in some cases: a restricted field of vision

It is important to assess what is causing these concerns. Not every “heavy look” is caused by excess eyelid skin; the position of the eyebrows or forehead can also play a role. We always take this into account in our assessment.

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More information

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01 How is an upper eyelid correction performed?

The procedure is almost always performed under local anaesthetic. You do not need to fast and you can go home the same day.


Step by step:

  • Beforehand, the plastic surgeon carefully marks how much skin can be safely removed

  • The incision is placed in the natural crease of the upper eyelid

  • Excess skin and, if necessary, a small amount of fat is removed

  • The skin is closed carefully with fine sutures

After healing, the scar is usually barely visible and blends into the natural eyelid crease.

The procedure typically takes 30 to 45 minutes.

02 Recovery

After the procedure, it is normal for the eyelids to be:

  • swollen and bruised

  • slightly tight or sensitive


This usually settles largely within 1 to 2 weeks.

  • You may go home the same day (do not drive yourself)

  • The stitches are typically removed after about 7 days

  • Make-up is usually possible again after around 10–14 days

We assess the final result only after a few months, once the skin has fully settled.

03 Result

Na een bovenooglidcorrectie zien we meestal:

  • een openere, frissere blik

  • minder vermoeidheid in de uitstraling

  • behoud van uw natuurlijke gezichtsuitdrukking


Mensen uit de omgeving kunnen vaak niet precies aanwijzen wat er is veranderd — maar zien wel dat u er uitgerust uitziet.

04 Possible risks and complications

An upper eyelid correction is a safe procedure, but as with any operation there are risks, including:

  • bleeding or swelling

  • temporary numbness of the skin or eyelashes

  • temporarily being unable to fully open or close the eyes

  • scar reactions (rarely bothersome)


These issues are almost always temporary and resolve on their own over the course of weeks to months. Serious complications are rare, especially when the procedure is performed carefully and conservatively.

05 Reimbursement

Nowadays, upper eyelid correction is rarely eligible for reimbursement by health insurers, even in cases of functional complaints. The criteria are strict and vary from insurer to insurer. We can discuss this with you during the consultation, but in most cases, this treatment is not covered by insurance.

Frequently asked questions

Click on a questions to see the answer

  • What is the goal of an upper eyelid correction?

    The goal is to remove excess skin from the upper eyelids so the eyes look more open and refreshed. It is not intended to change the shape of the eyes, but to restore a natural, relaxed appearance.

  • Is an upper eyelid correction purely cosmetic?

    No. Many people experience not only a tired look, but also a heavy or pressing sensation on the eyes, and sometimes even a reduction in the visual field. In those cases, the procedure can provide both aesthetic and functional benefit.

  • How do I know if my symptoms are truly caused by excess skin?

    During the consultation, the plastic surgeon assesses whether excess skin is the cause, or whether factors such as brow position or the forehead also contribute. The procedure is only recommended if it is the right solution.

  • Is fat also removed during an upper eyelid correction?

    Sometimes, but very conservatively. The guiding principle is to preserve a natural eyelid contour. Removing too much fat can create a hollow or harsh appearance. If needed, only a small amount is adjusted.

  • Are scars visible after an upper eyelid correction?

    The scar is placed in the natural crease of the upper eyelid and, once healed, is usually barely visible. For most people, it fades significantly over the following months.

  • Is an upper eyelid correction painful?

    An upper eyelid correction is performed under local anaesthesia and is therefore virtually painless. After an upper eyelid correction, mild soreness or bruised sensations are common and are usually well managed with paracetamol.

  • How long is recovery after an upper eyelid correction?

    After an upper eyelid correction, most swelling and bruising resolve within 1 to 2 weeks. Stitches are usually removed after about 7 days. The final result of an upper eyelid correction is assessed after several months, once the tissues have fully settled.

  • When can I return to work or drive after an upper eyelid correction?

    After an upper eyelid correction, light work is often possible after a few days, depending on swelling and comfort. Driving after an upper eyelid correction is allowed once you feel safe and your vision is not affected. You should not drive yourself on the day of the upper eyelid correction.

  • Is the result of an upper eyelid correction permanent?

    The result of an upper eyelid correction is long-lasting. Ageing continues, but the excess skin removed during the upper eyelid correction typically does not return to the same extent.

  • Will I look “different” after an upper eyelid correction?

    An upper eyelid correction is designed to preserve your natural facial expression. After an upper eyelid correction, you look fresher and more rested, without an “operated” look.

  • Can an upper eyelid correction be combined with other procedures?

    An upper eyelid correction can, when appropriate, be combined with procedures such as a lower eyelid correction, a brow lift, or a facelift. During the consultation, we assess whether combining treatments with an upper eyelid correction makes sense for your case.

  • Is an upper eyelid correction covered by health insurance?

    In practice, an upper eyelid correction is now rarely reimbursed. Reimbursement criteria are strict and vary by insurer. At Gooimeer Clinics, we currently provide non-insured care only.

  • Am I a suitable candidate for an upper eyelid correction?

    Most healthy adults with excess upper eyelid skin are suitable candidates for an upper eyelid correction. During the consultation, we assess your anatomy, health, and expectations to confirm whether an upper eyelid correction is the right choice for you.

Before and after

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Are you considering upper eyelid surgery?

During a personal consultation, we discuss:

  • your concerns and goals

  • the anatomy of your eyelids and eyebrows

  • whether an upper eyelid correction is the right solution for you


Honest advice and a natural result are always the priority.

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Very friendly, skilled plastic surgeon. Gives personal attention, listens to you, and takes time for you. The end result of a face and neck lift is natural and beautiful. If you have any questions after the treatment, you can always contact them and they will help you.

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Professional, neat, honest! That's how I would describe Dr. Ahmed. I didn't experience any pain, and it already looks beautiful! The wounds are barely visible... and it's only been four weeks. I hesitated for years, but when I walked in here, I knew for sure! I'm going for it. I would advise everyone to go to Dr. Ahmed!

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I hesitated for so long about this procedure, but I should have done it much earlier. Dr. Ahmed is knowledgeable, clear, and above all very honest about the procedure and the results. The operation is tough, and you really need to take the time to recover. Fortunately, I had little pain and am now very happy with the result. I would recommend Dr. Ahmed!

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I came in for eyelid surgery and was advised to also have a forehead lift. Dr. Ahmed was right, and I am so happy with the results. Everything was explained clearly. The anesthesia was painful and unpleasant, but I had no pain afterwards. The results are beautiful, and I have received many positive comments from those around me.

I was treated kindly throughout the entire process and felt ...

Friendly and professional approach from all staff members. Comprehensive and careful information before and after the procedure. Dr. Ahmed did a wonderful job. I am very happy with the result.

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For years, it had been my greatest wish to undergo this treatment, as I was unhappy with my appearance. After the treatment, I feel and look 20 years younger. I am so glad I had it done.

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