Skip to content Eyelid surgery addresses the effects of ageing and environmental damage around the eyes, including lax eyelids and under-eye concerns.
The area around your eyes is especially sensitive to the effects of sun damage, ageing, and other environmental aggressors that cause skin elasticity to decline. Dr John Flood uses eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) at his Sydney-area practice to address the tissue around the eyes, addressing concerns such as lax eyelids, under-eye skin and wrinkles. Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is a delicate procedure and should only be performed by a highly-trained surgeon.
Dr Flood offers eyelid surgery in Sydney for the upper and lower eyelids. These treatments can be performed as individual procedures or combined for a more extensive approach.
Upper eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) may be suitable for patients who have puffy eyelids or excess skin obscuring the eye fold. In some cases, loose skin may even hang over the eyelids or lashes, impairing vision. This procedure tightens the area around the upper eye. If sagging eyebrows accompany an upper eyelid condition, then a brow lift may be recommended.
Lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) can reduce under-eye puffiness and address a drooping lower lid. With surgery, Dr Flood is able to remove or redistribute fat under the eyes in an approach that suits each patient’s features. Laser skin resurfacing or wrinkle reduction treatments can also be used to reduce deep wrinkles in the outer corners of the eyes.
Dr Flood is dedicated to making sure that you feel informed and confident about your surgery the day of your procedure. Any questions you have will be thoroughly addressed and answered with openness and honesty.
During your first visit, Dr Flood will ask you about any medical conditions or eye concerns you have, such as allergies, “dry eye,” or vision concerns. He will then examine your eye area and check for skin elasticity, imbalances, sagging, and puffiness. Photographs are taken at the initial consultation to see whether a Medicare Item Number can be assigned for your upper eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty). After pinpointing your skin characteristics, he will discuss your options for surgery. You may be invited back for a follow-up consultation to review your personal surgical plan and discuss any remaining questions.
At Dr Flood’s practice near Sydney, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) typically takes about 1.5 – 2.5 hours, depending on the extent of the procedure, and can be performed under general or local anaesthetic. Upper eyelid surgery usually takes 1.0 – 1.5 hours, and lower eyelid surgery may take up to 1.5 hours of surgery. Incisions are made in either the natural crease (upper eyelid) or along the lash line (lower eyelid) so that scarring is nearly imperceptible. Additional skin and tissue is excised and the surrounding skin is tightened. For lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), extra fat may be removed to reduce under-eye bags or a fat graft may be used to add volume to shallow areas. In some cases, muscles are altered to achieve longer-lasting results. Lasers can be combined with eyelid surgery to address skin laxity and reduce wrinkles.
Dr Flood will provide you with instructions for post-operative care, which usually includes sleeping with your head elevated and applying cool compresses to your eyes as needed. Most patients experience surprisingly little pain but may feel a “tight” sensation around the eyes and some mild discomfort. The degree of swelling and bruising varies greatly with each individual patient but usually resolves in one to two weeks. Once you have recovered and the full results are visible, the skin around your eyes should appear tightened and lifted. Results are personalised and should be assessed on an individual basis, according to your personal procedure goals and your personalised procedure steps. Some patients with vision impairment due to upper eyelid sagging may even see a little clearer after their procedure. As an adjunctive treatment, Dr Flood may also recommend anti-wrinkle injections to maintain the results of blepharoplasty surgery. This treatment can be helpful for addressing lines and wrinkles around the eyes, mouth and forehead.
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a specialised surgical procedure that removes excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat around the eyes. Blepharoplasty surgery in Sydney addresses both aesthetic concerns and functional issues.
Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning surgery, is a procedure designed to reshape and reposition the ears for a more natural and balanced appearance. It is commonly sought by individuals who are self-conscious about their protruding, asymmetrical, or misshapen ears. While many seek cosmetic improvement, otoplasty can also address concerns present from birth or resulting from injury. If you’re considering otoplasty in Sydney, understanding the procedure, recovery expectations, and possible risks helps you make an informed decision.
This guide provides detailed information on what otoplasty involves and how recovery typically progresses. It also explains key considerations, including safety, risk management, and differences in approach for children and adults. The goal is to present clear, balanced information so you can discuss your personal circumstances with a qualified surgeon and determine the best treatment plan for your needs.
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that modifies the shape, position, or proportion of the ears. The goal is to create a more natural look by adjusting the cartilage and surrounding tissues. Unlike other facial procedures that primarily address changes in the skin or deeper structures, otoplasty focuses on cartilage shaping and positional correction.
Ear surgery may be performed for individuals with ears that protrude more than average, those with asymmetry between ears, or people who have experienced trauma that altered the ear’s appearance. Otoplasty typically involves discrete incisions behind the ear to access the cartilage, allowing the surgeon to reshape and secure the ear into a new position.
Individuals of all ages may consider otoplasty when the shape or position of the ears affects their comfort, self‑perception, or interpersonal interactions. Many parents seek otoplasty for children who may have been teased or feel self‑conscious about their ears. Surgery is usually considered when the ear cartilage is sufficiently developed, often around age five or six, to ensure long‑term results as the child grows.
Adults may pursue otoplasty for persistent concerns that have existed since childhood or for changes in ear shape due to injury. Candidates for surgery should be in generally good health and have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve. A thorough evaluation with a qualified surgeon is necessary to assess anatomical suitability and to determine whether otoplasty aligns with personal goals and clinical considerations.
Otoplasty is typically performed under local anaesthesia with sedation for adults, while general anaesthesia is more common for children. The procedure is usually completed in one to two hours, depending on the extent of the correction needed. During surgery, the surgeon creates incisions that allow access to the cartilage, which is then reshaped to achieve the desired appearance.
Most incisions are placed behind the ear, where scars will be less visible as they heal. This approach provides access to the cartilage while concealing any marks once recovery begins. In rare cases, minimal incisions may be made elsewhere if specific structural adjustments are required. Placement and technique are chosen to achieve the best possible outcome with the least noticeable scarring.
Cartilage reshaping techniques may include scoring, folding, or suturing methods that adjust its structure and position. Permanent internal sutures are often used to help stabilise the cartilage’s new form during healing. Once the desired shape and projection are confirmed, the surgeon carefully closes the incision. Bandaging is applied to support the ears and protect them in the initial stages of recovery.
Like all surgical procedures, otoplasty carries potential risks that should be understood in advance. These include infection, scarring, and asymmetry. While serious complications are uncommon, they can occur and are more likely when aftercare instructions are not followed or if pre‑existing health conditions complicate healing.
Infection is a potential risk with any procedure involving an incision. It is minimised through sterile technique during surgery and by following postoperative wound care guidelines. Seek medical review if signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or discharge, occur.
Scarring is part of the body’s healing response, even with well‑planned incision placement. Scars behind the ear usually become less noticeable over time, but their appearance varies by individual skin type and healing behaviour. Following your surgeon’s care recommendations can support optimal scar maturation.
Minor asymmetry may be visible after surgery, even when care is taken to achieve balance. Natural anatomical differences between the ears may contribute to this effect. Your surgeon will discuss these possibilities with you during consent to ensure clear expectations.
Temporary numbness or tingling around the ears may occur after surgery. In most cases, sensation returns as tissues heal, but some changes may persist for months.
Recovery from otoplasty typically involves an initial period of rest, followed by gradually increasing activity under guidance. Adherence to aftercare instructions is crucial for reducing swelling, protecting the surgical site, and supporting proper healing.
After surgery, a protective bandage or dressing is usually applied to maintain ear position and reduce swelling. This dressing helps stabilise the area and should remain in place as instructed. Pain or discomfort can be managed with prescribed medication or suitable over‑the‑counter options recommended by your surgeon.
Swelling and bruising are common in the first few days and may last up to a couple of weeks. Many patients transition to a lighter dressing or protective headband and can generally resume non‑strenuous activities within a week or so. Strenuous exercise and contact sports should be avoided until your surgeon confirms it is safe to resume.
Ear shape and position continue to settle over several weeks. Final results become more apparent as swelling fully resolves, often within 8–12 weeks. Avoiding pressure or trauma to the ears throughout recovery remains important until full healing is confirmed.
If you’re considering otoplasty in Sydney and would like professional evaluation and advice, a consultation with Dr John Flood is a valuable first step. During your consultation, Dr Flood will review your specific concerns, discuss your surgical options, and explain expected outcomes and recovery details. He will also address potential risks and answer any questions you may have.
Call or enquire online to request an otoplasty surgery consultation with Dr Flood. A referral from your GP may support a comprehensive assessment, and cooling‑off periods will be observed in line with current guidelines. This approach ensures you are informed and prepared before making a decision about ear reshaping surgery.
The recovery time for eyelid surgery can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. Here are some general timelines:
Dr Flood will provide detailed recovery guidelines according to your individual needs, ensuring you know what to expect at each stage of the healing process.
As with any surgical procedure, blepharoplasty carries certain risks. While complications are rare, it is important to be aware of the potential risks, which include:
The results of blepharoplasty are generally long-lasting. However, the longevity of the results can be influenced by several factors:
If you are considering eyelid surgery and want to explore your options, scheduling a consultation with Dr John Flood is an important first step. During this consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your specific concerns and goals with Dr Flood, who will provide a thorough evaluation of your eyelids and overall facial structure.
You can contact Dr Flood’s office at 02 9140 0154 or through the online contact form available on our website. We will assist you in finding a convenient time for your consultation. Since consultations are scheduled based on availability, it’s advisable to book early to secure your preferred time.
During your consultation with Dr John Flood, you can expect a thorough evaluation and a personalised discussion that addresses all aspects of your eyelid surgery:
For any further inquiries or to schedule your consultation, please contact our clinic. Our team is here to assist you and provide the information and support you need.
Speak with our team, answer any questions, book in an initial consultation
a | Referrer from GP needed b | Initial Consultation - $395 Cosmetic / $345 non cosmetic c | Discuss procedure, options, quote.
a | Take photos & Book in surgery
Undergo surgery with Dr. Flood and receive comprehensive post-operative support to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.
