Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure used to address changes in eyelid skin and underlying tissue. For many patients in Campbelltown and surrounding parts of South West Sydney, it becomes a consideration due to functional concerns such as skin affecting vision or visible alterations around the eyes. Whether the upper eyelid appears heavier or the lower lids show puffiness or changes in tissue, this procedure may assist in adjusting facial features when carefully planned and performed.
Dr Michael Kernohan is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon based in South West Sydney. He consults from Gregory Hills in the Southern Highlands and Surry Hills in Sydney City. While there is no clinic directly in Campbelltown, many patients from the Campbelltown region travel to see Dr Kernohan due to his focused experience in eyelid, facial and reconstructive procedures. He operates at fully accredited hospitals with access for residents of Campbelltown and surrounding areas.
Dr Kernohan’s approach is grounded in clinical evaluation and tailored surgical planning, prioritising function and long-term patient support. His practice is structured to encourage informed decision-making and continuity of care.
What Can Eyelid Surgery Address?
Patients who undergo blepharoplasty may observe a reduction in upper eyelid heaviness or changes in the fullness under the eyes. In certain cases, blepharoplasty may help reduce discomfort caused by overhanging eyelid tissue, including forehead strain or visual obstruction. Individual outcomes depend on a person’s anatomy and medical history.
Changes in the eyelids can occur gradually and may be influenced by genetics, environmental exposure, and the natural ageing process. Some individuals find that their eyes feel more tired or that they lift their brows frequently to see clearly. Others may notice more prominent lower eyelid puffiness that does not respond to non-surgical options. While these changes are not medically harmful, they can contribute to functional challenges or a mismatch between how one feels internally and how the eye region appears.
Understanding Potential Risks
Possible risks of blepharoplasty may include infection, bleeding, dry eye, delayed healing, scarring, asymmetry, and the potential need for further treatment. These aspects are discussed in consultation to support informed decision-making. Each patient’s anatomy, health status and goals are considered during pre-surgical evaluation.
The procedure may be considered when non-surgical approaches are no longer effective or when there is documented interference with visual fields. Dr Kernohan provides a detailed consultation process to determine if the procedure aligns with your needs. This includes a discussion of risks, potential outcomes, alternative options, and the expected recovery process.
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Who Might Consider Eyelid Surgery?
Suitability is assessed based on clinical indications. Patients may be considered if they present with excess eyelid skin, puffiness due to fat deposits, vision interference due to eyelid positioning, or lower eyelid laxity. Good general health and realistic expectations are important considerations. Age alone is not a determining factor.
During consultation, Dr Kernohan evaluates not just the eyelids but also the position of the brow, cheek support, and skin condition, as these influence both surgical planning and the potential result. In some cases, a brow lift may be suggested if brow descent contributes to upper eyelid heaviness. A comprehensive upper-face assessment helps guide appropriate planning.
Lifestyle, medical conditions such as dry eye syndrome, and current medications are also considered. Patients who smoke or have chronic conditions may require additional assessment or planning before undergoing surgery.
How Is Eyelid Surgery Performed?
There are two main types of blepharoplasty: upper and lower eyelid surgery. Upper eyelid surgery typically involves removal of skin and sometimes fat, with incisions placed in the natural eyelid crease. Lower eyelid surgery may help address fullness or tissue changes beneath the eyes and may be performed using either an internal (transconjunctival) or external approach, depending on the patient’s anatomy and clinical needs.
In upper blepharoplasty, markings are made while the patient is upright to help guide incision placement. The technique is designed to adjust upper eyelid weight while maintaining eye function. For lower eyelids, the transconjunctival approach allows for internal access to fat pads without external scarring, while an external method may be used when skin or muscle repositioning is considered.
Dr Kernohan selects the most appropriate method based on the patient’s anatomy and functional requirements. The aim is to support both eyelid function and appearance without resulting in an exaggerated or altered look.
Download Dr Kernohan’s Blepharoplasty Surgery Guide
What Happens on the Day of Surgery?
Blepharoplasty is generally performed in a fully accredited hospital under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia. Most eyelid surgeries are completed within one to two hours.
Patients are asked to fast prior to surgery, follow specific medication guidelines provided at the pre-operative appointment, and arrange for a responsible adult to accompany them home. After surgery, patients are monitored in recovery and discharged home on the same day. Campbelltown residents may undergo surgery at hospitals such as Campbelltown Private or St Vincent’s in the city, depending on availability and patient preference.
Detailed pre-operative instructions are provided, including care of the surgical site, activities to avoid, and scheduled follow-up visits. Dr Kernohan’s team provides written information and a contact plan in case questions arise during recovery.
Blepharoplasty Before and After Photos
Disclaimer: All surgical or invasive procedures come with inherent risks, and results can vary widely between individuals due to factors like lifestyle, anatomy, overall health, weight, and nutrition. We encourage you to conduct thorough research and consider seeking a second opinion from a qualified healthcare provider.
Recovery Timeline for Campbelltown Patients
Initial recovery involves swelling and bruising, typically settling over one to two weeks. Patients are encouraged to organise home support, especially in the first few days. Travel to and from the hospital should also be arranged in advance, particularly for Campbelltown patients visiting Gregory Hills or Sydney.
Cold compresses, head elevation, and gentle wound care can help manage swelling. Vision may be temporarily blurry due to ointments or swelling. Eye drops and prescribed medications should be used as directed.
Strenuous activity and contact lens use are generally avoided during early healing. Most patients resume work and social activities within ten to fourteen days, though this varies depending on occupation and individual healing response. Those whose work involves extensive screen time or physical exertion may require additional planning.
Healing Over the Longer Term
Healing of the incision lines can take several months. During this period, sun protection is recommended. Sunglasses and broad-spectrum sunscreen can assist in protecting the healing area.
Dr Kernohan supports long-term follow-up to observe recovery and address any concerns. Incisions are typically positioned in natural folds and tend to become less noticeable over time. Most patients experience progressive improvement in comfort and function as recovery continues.
For Campbelltown patients, follow-up can be coordinated at either the Gregory Hills or Surry Hills clinic based on preference. In some cases, further treatments may be discussed depending on individual changes over time. Continued follow-up is encouraged to maintain outcomes.
Planning for Your Procedure
Before surgery, patients attend a comprehensive medical consultation and may require pre-operative assessments. Clinical photographs are taken for documentation. The consultation includes a discussion of the proposed approach, risks, potential outcomes, and other options.
Planning also covers medications, health history, allergies, and prior procedures. A surgical consent form outlines the procedure and associated risks. Patients are encouraged to ask questions and consider all relevant information.
After surgery, patients receive clear instructions regarding wound care, medication use, and what to look for during recovery. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to support healing. Dr Kernohan’s team remains accessible during the healing phase, particularly for patients travelling from Campbelltown.
Cost and Fees
The cost of blepharoplasty depends on the complexity of the procedure and whether it meets the criteria for medical necessity. For more details, patients can visit Dr Kernohan’s Cost and Pricing page.
In some situations, a Medicare item number may apply if visual field impairment is confirmed. This requires an assessment from an optometrist or ophthalmologist, which Dr Kernohan’s team can assist in arranging if appropriate.
FAQs About Blepharoplasty
Further Reading
- Read more about Recovery after Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery
- Read more about Eyelid Surgery Scar Treatment, Healing and Fading
- View Blepharoplasty Before and After Gallery
Why Campbelltown Patients See Dr Kernohan
Dr Kernohan is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon with qualifications recognised by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). His practice focuses on procedures involving the eyelids, face, breast and body, and includes reconstructive surgery after trauma or illness. Many patients from Campbelltown and broader South West Sydney choose to see him due to his structured and clinically grounded approach.
Consultations are designed to allow adequate time for discussion and personalised planning. Dr Kernohan’s team is known for professional coordination and detailed pre-operative support. His clinics aim to offer clarity, professionalism and access to accurate information about each procedure.
Getting to the Clinic from Campbelltown
Travelling from Campbelltown to Gregory Hills typically takes around 25 minutes by car. The Surry Hills location is accessible by train to Central Station, followed by a short bus or taxi ride. Parking is available at both clinic locations.
Some patients opt to stay overnight in Sydney following surgery, particularly if procedures are scheduled later in the day or involve multiple treatments. The clinic can assist with nearby accommodation options.
How to Arrange a Consultation
To book a consultation with Dr Michael Kernohan, patients from Campbelltown and surrounding suburbs can choose to attend either the Gregory Hills or Surry Hills clinic locations. A referral from your GP is required prior to your consultation. During the appointment, Dr Kernohan will assess your medical history, discuss your concerns, and provide individualised recommendations based on your clinical needs. For bookings or enquiries, contact the team via phone on 1300 39 38 99, email [email protected], or visit the contact us page.
Gregory Hills or Surry Hills Clinics
Call 1300 39 38 99
Or visit the contact page to send an enquiry: www.drmichaelkernohan.com.au/contact
