One of the most consistently popular cosmetic surgery procedures is eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty). The eyes are usually the first facial feature to show signs of ageing, so removing excess skin, fat and muscle from the upper and lower eye lids can give a more youthful and fresher appearance. It is often done alongside other cosmetic procedures such as a facelift.

Male blepharoplasty surgery is now very common and eyelid surgery is the second most requested cosmetic procedure amongst men. The objective of the surgery and technique used are the same as for female patients. The only difference is men more frequently require a brow lift in addition to the blepharoplasty procedure.

For eye bag removal, the surgeon will make a short incision underneath the eyelashes, extending outwards to the crow's feet. The skin is gently pulled taut and any overlap in skin is carefully removed. Fine stitches are used to close the incision.

If surgery is required on the upper eye lid, the incision is made in the natural crease above the eyelashes. The skin is meticulously separated from the underlying layers of tissue and the surgeon will remove any excess fat to reduce the appearance of puffiness, as well as trimming any excess skin or drooping muscle. As with the lower lids, tiny sutures will be used to close up the incision.

Blepharoplasty usually takes between one and a half and three hours. Normally, the patient will require an overnight stay but if the surgery was relatively minor then occasionally the patient will be allowed to return home the same day.

Lubricant and bandages are often applied after surgery. There will be some swelling and bruising, but the patient should only experience discomfort rather than pain. Stitches will be removed by the surgeon after 5 days and any remaining swelling should disappear within two weeks of surgery. Dry eyes are a common problem with blepharoplasty, but eye drops can be prescribed. Scars normally heal very well, but this will vary between patients.

After eyelid surgery, patients should rest for three to five days and will be fit to return to work within seven to ten days. Strenuous activities should be avoided for at least three weeks.

So how much does blepharoplasty cost? It doesn't come cheap, and the cost of eyelid surgery varies between clinics. But as a guide, you can expect the price to range from approximately £2,600 to £3,600.