Male Blepharoplaty by Dr Turner in Sydney & Brisbane

Dr Scott J Turner is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) practising in Sydney and Brisbane with over a decade of experience specialising in facial aesthetic surgery. At his clinics, Dr Turner offers male blepharoplasty procedures specifically designed to address the unique anatomical characteristics and aesthetic goals of male patients seeking eyelid surgery.

Male eyelid surgery requires a fundamentally different approach than procedures designed for female patients. The male periorbital region possesses distinct anatomical features—including brow position, skin thickness, and structural characteristics—that influence surgical planning and technique selection. Dr Turner’s approach recognises these anatomical differences, employing techniques that respect masculine facial features whilst effectively addressing concerns such as excess upper eyelid skin, under-eye bags, and periorbital ageing. The objective is to achieve an improvement that appears natural and appropriate for a man’s face, avoiding the widened or startled appearance that can result from improper technique.

Understanding Male Blepharoplasty Surgery

Male blepharoplasty encompasses surgical procedures addressing the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. As part of Dr Turner’s comprehensive eye and periorbital surgery offerings, these procedures must account for the specific characteristics of male periorbital anatomy to achieve appropriate outcomes—whether performed for functional reasons such as visual field obstruction or aesthetic concerns.

Anatomical Differences in the Male Periorbital Region

The male eye region possesses several distinctive features that directly influence surgical approach and technique selection:

Brow Position: Men typically have lower-set brows than women. The male brow normally sits at or slightly below the orbital rim, whereas the female brow ideally arches above it. This fundamental difference means that what appears as excess upper eyelid skin in men may actually represent appropriate tissue distribution when brow position is taken into account. Aggressive upper eyelid skin removal in male patients risks elevating the apparent brow position, creating a feminised or surprised appearance.

Skin Characteristics: Male periorbital skin tends to be thicker than female skin, with increased sebaceous activity and collagen density. This thickness affects healing characteristics, scar maturation, and the degree of tissue that can be safely excised. The heavier tissue also requires consideration in surgical planning to ensure adequate support and natural tissue drape.

Eyelid Crease Position: The male upper eyelid crease sits lower than in women—typically 7-8mm above the lash line compared to 8-10mm in females. Surgical techniques must preserve this lower crease position to maintain a masculine appearance. Creating a higher crease, as might be appropriate in female blepharoplasty, produces an inappropriate aesthetic result in male patients.

Orbital Fat Distribution: Men may present with more prominent orbital fat prolapse, particularly in the medial (nasal) compartment of the upper eyelid and the medial and central compartments of the lower eyelid. Fat management must be conservative to avoid hollowing, which can create an aged or gaunt appearance.

Structural Framework: Larger orbital bones and more prominent brow ridges create different soft-tissue support patterns. These structural differences influence how periorbital tissues age and descend over time.

How Male Periorbital Ageing Differs

The pattern and progression of periorbital ageing in men differs from that in women in several important ways:

Upper Eyelid Changes: Men frequently develop significant dermatochalasis—excess upper eyelid skin—that can create hooding and obstruct peripheral vision. This tissue redundancy often appears more pronounced due to the lower male brow position, which pushes additional tissue onto the upper eyelid platform. However, the thicker skin tends to preserve texture better, with fewer fine lines than women of similar age.

Lower Eyelid Concerns: Under-eye bags from fat prolapse are more common and more pronounced in male patients. The combination of heavier tissues and gravitational forces often creates more substantial lower eyelid concerns. Men frequently describe feeling perpetually tired or worn out despite adequate rest, a presentation that significantly affects professional and social interactions.

Tear Trough Changes: The tear trough—the groove extending from the inner corner of the eye diagonally across the upper cheek—often becomes more pronounced in men with age. This depression creates shadowing that contributes to a tired appearance and may require fat repositioning or grafting to address adequately.

Temporal Hollowing: Age-related bone resorption and fat atrophy in the temporal region can create hollowing that extends to the lateral brow and upper eyelid, contributing to an overall aged appearance.

Upper Male Blepharoplasty

Upper blepharoplasty for male patients addresses excess skin, muscle, and occasionally fat in the upper eyelid region. The procedure proves particularly effective for men experiencing:

• Hooding of the upper eyelids that obscures the natural eyelid crease
• Redundant skin extending over the eyelash line
• Visual field obstruction from overhanging tissue (functional impairment)
• Heavy or tired appearance around the eyes

Technical Considerations for Men: Dr Turner employs specific modifications when performing upper blepharoplasty on male patients. Incision placement follows the natural eyelid crease at the appropriate male position (7-8mm). Skin excision is calculated conservatively, accounting for the lower male brow position and avoiding over-correction that could feminise appearance. Fat removal is conservative, preserving the fullness appropriate to masculine periorbital aesthetics.

Lower Male Blepharoplasty

Lower blepharoplasty for male patients addresses concerns in the under-eye region, including fat prolapse that creates bags, excess skin, and contour irregularities. Two primary approaches exist:

Transconjunctival Approach: Incisions are placed inside the lower eyelid, leaving no visible external scarring. This technique proves ideal for men with prominent fat prolapse but good skin elasticity—a common presentation in younger male patients. Fat can be removed or, preferably, repositioned to fill the tear trough and improve overall contour.

Subciliary Approach: A fine incision just below the lower lash line provides access for both fat management and skin excision. This approach suits male patients with significant skin excess and fat concerns. The resulting scar typically blends imperceptibly along the lash line.

Dr Turner determines the optimal approach based on individual anatomy assessment, skin quality evaluation, and specific concerns being addressed.

Functional Versus Aesthetic Indications in Men

Male patients present for blepharoplasty with varying motivations:

Functional Concerns: When excess upper eyelid skin significantly obstructs the visual field, blepharoplasty serves a functional purpose. Many men first seek consultation when overhead vision becomes impaired, affecting activities such as driving, reading, or computer work. In these circumstances, Medicare rebates may apply when specific criteria are satisfied.

Aesthetic Concerns: Men increasingly seek blepharoplasty to address the tired, aged, or heavy appearance that periorbital changes create. Professional considerations frequently motivate male patients—looking alert and vital proves important in competitive work environments. Unlike many female patients who may be comfortable discussing aesthetic motivations, male patients often appreciate it when functional improvement accompanies aesthetic enhancement.

Combined Presentation: Most men present with overlapping functional and aesthetic concerns, seeking both improved visual function and enhanced appearance.

Am I a Suitable Candidate for Male Blepharoplasty?

Male blepharoplasty is appropriate for men experiencing functional visual impairment from excess eyelid tissue, aesthetic concerns about their periorbital region, or both. Appropriate candidate selection ensures satisfying outcomes whilst maintaining realistic expectations.

Physical Health Requirements

Suitable male blepharoplasty candidates demonstrate:

• Good general health without conditions affecting surgical safety or healing capacity
• No active eye infections, inflammatory conditions, or uncontrolled glaucoma
• Adequate tear production—dry eye syndrome requires careful assessment and may influence candidacy
• Stable refracted vision without recent significant changes
• Normal blood clotting function without reliance on anticoagulant medications that cannot be safely discontinued
• Non-smoking status or absolute commitment to cease all tobacco and nicotine products for a minimum of six weeks before and after surgery
• Realistic understanding of achievable outcomes
• Psychological readiness for surgical intervention (mandatory psychological assessment required per Australian regulations effective July 1, 2023)

Anatomical Indicators for Upper Male Blepharoplasty

Upper blepharoplasty proves particularly effective for men presenting with:

• Excess upper eyelid skin creates hooding over the natural eyelid crease
• Redundant tissue extending onto or over the eyelash line
• Obscured upper eyelid platform with loss of crease definition
• Puffy or full appearance from protruding orbital fat
• Visual field obstruction from overhanging eyelid tissue
• Asymmetry between the upper eyelids
• Desire for a more alert, rested appearance

Anatomical Indicators for Lower Male Blepharoplasty

Lower blepharoplasty effectively addresses:

• Prominent under-eye bags from prolapsing orbital fat
• Excess lower eyelid skin creates fine lines or redundancy
• Pronounced tear trough deformity creating shadowing
• Festoons or malar mounds contribute to lower eyelid fullness
• Asymmetry between the lower eyelids
• Perpetually tired appearance despite adequate rest

The Importance of Brow Assessment in Male Candidates

Brow position significantly influences the appearance of the upper eyelid. A descended brow pushes tissue onto the upper eyelid, creating apparent excess that may not represent genuine eyelid redundancy. In male patients, this assessment proves particularly critical because:

• Male brows naturally sit lower, complicating the distinction between brow descent and true eyelid excess
• Brow lifting in men must be approached conservatively to avoid feminisation
• Attempting to correct brow descent through aggressive upper blepharoplasty alone risks creating difficulty closing the eyes, an unnatural appearance, or inadequate improvement.

During consultation at Dr Turner’s Sydney or Brisbane practice, a comprehensive assessment determines whether upper blepharoplasty alone, brow elevation, or a combination approach will best achieve your goals whilst maintaining an appropriate masculine appearance.

Medicare Eligibility for Functional Upper Blepharoplasty

When excess upper eyelid skin demonstrably impairs visual function, Medicare rebates may apply. Specific criteria must be satisfied, typically including documented visual field obstruction on formal testing, photographic evidence of tissue redundancy, and clinical assessment confirming functional impairment. Dr Turner can advise on potential Medicare eligibility during your consultation and arrange appropriate documentation when the criteria appear satisfied.

How is Male Blepharoplasty Performed?

Male blepharoplasty may be performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the extent of surgery planned and patient preference. When performed in isolation, upper or lower blepharoplasty typically takes 1-2 hours. Combined upper and lower blepharoplasty requires approximately 2-3 hours. Most patients return home on the same day following appropriate recovery monitoring.

Pre-Operative Planning and Marking

Meticulous pre-operative planning proves essential for optimal male blepharoplasty outcomes. With the patient seated upright and awake, Dr Turner carefully assesses and marks:

Upper Eyelid Assessment:

• Natural eyelid crease position is identified at the appropriate male height (7-8mm above the lash line)
• Skin excision pattern is determined using the pinch technique whilst assessing eyelid closure
• Pre-existing asymmetry is documented and addressed in surgical planning
• Fat pad prominence requiring management is identified

Lower Eyelid Assessment:

• The degree of fat prolapse in the medial, central, and lateral compartments is evaluated
• Skin excess and elasticity are assessed to determine the optimal approach
• Tear trough depth is measured for potential fat repositioning planning
• Lower eyelid tone and support are tested to evaluate canthal integrity

These markings must be performed whilst the patient is seated upright, as lying flat alters tissue position and leads to inaccurate excision planning.

Upper Male Blepharoplasty Technique

Anaesthesia and Preparation: Following appropriate anaesthesia—local with sedation or general—the periorbital region is carefully prepared. When local anaesthesia is used, the eyelid area is completely numbed whilst the patient remains relaxed but awake.

Incision Creation: Using a fine surgical blade, Dr Turner creates precise incisions along the pre-marked lines. The primary incision follows the natural eyelid crease at the appropriate male position, ensuring the eventual scar lies within this fold, where it becomes virtually invisible once healed.

Tissue Excision: The elliptical segment of excess skin is carefully removed. When indicated, a conservative strip of underlying orbicularis muscle may also be excised to reduce bulk and improve crease definition. The amount of excision is carefully calculated to account for the lower male brow position—aggressive skin removal is avoided to prevent feminisation or difficulty with complete eye closure.

Orbital Fat Management: If assessment reveals prolapsing orbital fat contributing to eyelid fullness, Dr Turner conservatively addresses the fat pads. Excessive fat removal is specifically avoided in male patients, as it creates a hollow, aged appearance that is particularly noticeable given the male brow and orbital structure. The medial and central fat compartments are addressed as needed whilst preserving appropriate masculine fullness.

Wound Closure: The incision is closed in layers using fine sutures. The closure technique aims to create a well-defined but appropriately positioned male eyelid crease whilst minimising visible scarring.

Lower Male Blepharoplasty Technique

Transconjunctival Approach (No Visible Scarring):

When skin quality remains good, and the primary concern involves fat prolapse, Dr Turner may employ the transconjunctival approach:

• An incision is created inside the lower eyelid (conjunctiva), leaving no visible external scar
• The orbital septum is opened to access prolapsing fat compartments
• Fat is either conservatively removed or, preferably, repositioned over the orbital rim to fill the tear trough depression
• The conjunctival incision typically heals without sutures

This approach suits younger male patients with good skin elasticity who primarily exhibit fat-related under-eye bags.

Subciliary Approach (External Access):

When significant skin excess accompanies fat concerns, the subciliary approach provides comprehensive correction:

• A fine incision is placed just below the lower lash line, extending into natural crow’s feet lines if necessary
• Skin and muscle are elevated to expose the orbital septum and fat compartments
• Fat is repositioned or conservatively removed as indicated
• Excess skin is trimmed conservatively—over-resection risks lower eyelid malposition
• Layered closure with fine sutures creates a barely visible scar along the lash line

Complementary Procedures

Male blepharoplasty is frequently combined with additional procedures for comprehensive periorbital and facial improvement:

Brow Lift: When brow descent contributes significantly to upper eyelid fullness, combining brow elevation with blepharoplasty addresses both anatomical concerns. Male brow lifting should be conservative to maintain a masculine appearance.

Male Facelift: Comprehensive facial improvement may combine blepharoplasty with face and neck lifting for coordinated correction during a single recovery period.

Male Neck Lift: Men presenting with both periorbital and cervical ageing concerns may benefit from combined procedures.

Facial Fat Grafting: Volume restoration through fat transfer can address temporal hollowing and periorbital volume depletion that blepharoplasty alone cannot correct.

During consultation, Dr Turner discusses whether isolated blepharoplasty or combined procedures will best achieve your aesthetic objectives whilst maintaining a natural, masculine appearance.

Recovery and Aftercare

Male blepharoplasty recovery proceeds relatively quickly compared to more extensive facial procedures. Swelling and bruising typically peak at 48-72 hours before gradually improving, with most patients appearing socially presentable within 10-14 days. During the first week, cold compresses, head elevation, and antibiotic ointment application help manage symptoms and support healing. Sutures are removed at approximately 5-7 days if non-absorbable sutures were placed. Most patients describe mild soreness or tightness rather than significant pain, easily managed with simple pain-relief medication. Temporary blurred vision from ointment, light sensitivity, and altered tear production are common initially but resolve as healing progresses.

Most men return to office-based work within 7-14 days, though those in public-facing roles may prefer slightly longer before resuming professional activities. Light walking is encouraged from early recovery, whilst strenuous exercise should be avoided for 3-4 weeks. Sunglasses provide comfort from light sensitivity and discreet coverage of residual bruising. Final results become fully apparent at 3-6 months as residual swelling resolves and incision lines mature to barely visible traces. Dr Turner schedules follow-up appointments at one week, one month, and three to six months to monitor healing progress and ensure optimal outcomes.

Risks and Complications

All surgical procedures carry inherent risks that must be thoroughly understood before proceeding with treatment. Most patients experience expected temporary effects, including swelling, bruising, mild discomfort, temporary vision changes, and altered sensation—all typically resolving within the first few weeks. Less common but possible complications include haematoma, infection, asymmetry, visible scarring, and under-correction requiring revision. More significant but rare complications include difficulty closing the eyes completely (lagophthalmos), dry eye syndrome, eyelid malposition, and corneal irritation.

Male patients face specific considerations—thicker skin and increased vascularity may lead to prolonged swelling, and the conservative approach required to maintain a masculine appearance may result in subtle outcomes. However, this restraint prevents a feminised or startled appearance. Dr Turner minimises risks through comprehensive pre-operative assessment, conservative surgical technique appropriate to male anatomy, and meticulous attention to bleeding control. All procedures are performed in accredited facilities. 

For comprehensive information about potential risks, please read: Risks and Complications of Blepharoplasty Surgery