23 Jun Can blepharoplasty be combined with a facelift?
Article summary
Facial aging rarely follows a uniform pattern. While some people primarily develop drooping eyelids, others experience sagging in the lower face. When both issues appear at the same time, the question arises: is it possible to address everything in a single procedure?
Why Consider a Combined Face and Eyelid Procedure?
Practical Benefits
Combining a blepharoplasty with a facelift offers several concrete advantages. First, it allows patients to undergo only one anesthesia and a single recovery period, which is a significant benefit both physically and psychologically. The financial aspect is also worth noting, as this approach leads to substantial savings compared to two separate procedures.
Beyond these practical considerations, a combined procedure ensures a harmonious result across the entire face. Instead of risking an imbalance between rejuvenated eyelids and a still-sagging lower face—or vice versa—this approach delivers overall aesthetic coherence. Social downtime is also reduced, requiring just one period away from work instead of two separate recovery periods.
Who Is This Combination For?
The combined procedure is especially suitable for people aged 45 to 65 who are showing multiple signs of aging. These may include heavy upper eyelids with visible excess skin, persistent under-eye bags despite rest, deepening nasolabial folds over time, noticeable sagging in the facial contours, or a neck with wrinkles or drooping.
However, this procedure is only an option for patients in good general health, without bleeding disorders, and with realistic expectations regarding the outcome. At Dr. Bela’s clinic, a full preoperative assessment is systematically conducted to evaluate whether the procedure is appropriate.
Procedure and Recovery
The Surgery
The combined procedure is performed under general anesthesia in a certified clinic. It typically lasts between 2.5 and 4 hours, depending on the extent of the corrections needed. The surgeon usually works in two stages: starting with the blepharoplasty, followed by the neck and face lift.
Incisions are strategically placed to minimize visible scarring:
- Eyelids: in the natural folds and along the lash line
- Facelift: along the hairline and around the ears
Postoperative Recovery
- Weeks 1–2: Swelling and bruising are normal; stitches are removed between day 5 and 10
- Weeks 3–4: Gradual return to daily activities
- 3 months: Final results become visible
Scars gradually fade and become nearly invisible within 6 to 12 months.
Prices in Switzerland
The cost of a combined procedure varies depending on several factors: the surgeon’s experience, the complexity of the case, the clinic selected, and the duration of the surgery.
| Type of Procedure | Price Range |
|---|---|
|
Blepharoplasty only |
3,500 – 6,000 CHF |
|
Brow or Facelift |
4,500 – 12,000 CHF |
|
Lipostructure combined with upper and lower blepharoplasty |
from 12,000 CHF |
These fees generally include the surgeon’s and anesthetist’s fees, clinic costs, and postoperative follow-up. It’s important to note that LAMal does not cover cosmetic surgery, except in rare cases of blepharoplasty for documented and proven visual impairment, as confirmed by an ophthalmologist.
Choosing Your Surgeon in the Canton of Geneva
Essential Qualifications
In Geneva, it is vital to consult only a board-certified FMH plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgeon, such as Dr. Cyrielle Bela. This specialization requires at least six years of postgraduate training after obtaining a medical degree, followed by the successful completion of a particularly rigorous specialist exam. FMH-certified surgeons are also required to undergo continuous education to keep their skills up to date.
Recommended Checks
When choosing a surgeon, several key elements should be verified. FMH membership in ophthalmologic surgery is a mark of professional reliability. It is also important to ensure that the practitioner has documented experience in facial surgery and can provide a portfolio of before-and-after results. Finally, consultations should take place in a fully accredited clinic that adheres to current safety standards.
Benefits and Limitations of the Combined Approach
Benefits
- Up to 30% savings compared to two separate procedures
- Harmonious results across the entire face
- Only one recovery period
Limitations and Considerations
- Longer operating time: increased fatigue for the body
- More complex recovery: requires enhanced postoperative monitoring
- Not suitable after age 70: two separate procedures are preferable
Preparation and Practical Advice
Preoperative Preparation
Preparation begins four weeks before the procedure with the mandatory cessation of smoking, as it is a major factor in healing complications. It is also necessary to avoid taking aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications, which increase the risk of bleeding. A blood test and an anesthesiology consultation are systematically scheduled.
Planning for the return home requires special attention. It’s important to arrange for someone to assist during the first few days and to set up a resting area where the head can be kept elevated. Make sure to have cold compresses and the medications prescribed by the surgeon on hand.
Postoperative Monitoring
Certain warning signs require an immediate consultation: abnormal bleeding, severe pain not relieved by prescribed painkillers, fever over 38.5°C, or visual disturbances. Although rare, these symptoms must be addressed promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Procedure
Are the results permanent?
A facelift typically maintains its effects for about 10 to 12 years, while blepharoplasty offers near-permanent results, especially for the removal of under-eye fat pockets.
Can it be combined with other treatments?
It is common to combine the procedure with hyaluronic acid or botulinum toxin injections to enhance the overall result, usually at a later stage once healing is complete.
What is the optimal age for this procedure?
The ideal age range is between 50 and 65, when signs of aging are pronounced enough to warrant the procedure, but the skin still retains enough elasticity to ensure good healing.
Are there non-surgical alternatives?
Thread lifts, focused ultrasound treatments like Ultherapy, and radiofrequency can provide partial but temporary results. These techniques are more suitable for mild signs of aging or as preventive measures.