Lower Eyelid Surgery
Why is lower eyelid surgery performed?
The skin beneath the lower eyelids is the thinnest, making it the first area where wrinkles and under-eye bags appear. If your eyes look puffy, swollen, and you have noticeable under-eye bags, you may be a candidate for lower eyelid surgery.
Why is lower eyelid surgery the right solution?
The skin under the eyes is exceptionally thin and sensitive, making it prone to early signs of aging. If you’re dealing with puffy, tired-looking eyes and under-eye bags, lower eyelid surgery can be the ideal solution for you. This procedure effectively reduces wrinkles, under-eye bags, and puffiness, restoring youthful smoothness and tone to the skin.
What does lower eyelid surgery achieve?
Lower eyelid surgery reduces signs of aging around the eyes, including wrinkles and under-eye bags. The skin around the eyes becomes tighter and smoother, resulting in a youthful and refreshed appearance. Under-eye circles are diminished, leaving you looking vibrant and well-rested. You’ll regain confidence as you enjoy your rejuvenated reflection.
How to prepare for lower eyelid surgery?
Before the surgery, the patient’s eyes are photographed from multiple angles to compare the results with the initial condition. The excess skin is precisely measured. Asymmetry, a natural feature of every face, is taken into account when marking the incision lines.
If you are taking aspirin, vitamin C, or other supplements, discontinue use at least seven days before the procedure.
How is lower eyelid surgery performed?
A preoperative consultation with the surgeon is essential to determine if the patient is a candidate for lower eyelid surgery.
The procedure is usually performed under intravenous sedation (analgosedation) and, less frequently, under local anesthesia.
If there is significant excess skin in the form of “bags,” dark circles, or swollen eyelids, the surgeon makes an incision along the lash line, extending from the inner corner to the outer corner of the eye. Through this incision, excess skin is removed. If there is excess fat, it can also be removed through the same incision. Additionally, muscle reconstruction may be performed. The incision is then sutured.
The procedure typically lasts 1–2 hours, and the patient is discharged on the same day.
Recovery after lower eyelid surgery
Recovery from lower eyelid surgery typically takes 10–14 days. During the first week or two, swelling and bruising are expected, and rest is recommended.
- An antibiotic ointment may be prescribed as needed.
- Applying ice packs or cold compresses just below the incision line is recommended.
- For the first 48 hours, you must avoid straining your eyes, which means refraining from reading, watching TV, or using your mobile phone.
- Avoid alcohol consumption for the first seven days, as it can exacerbate swelling and bruising.
- Tearing, itching, burning, and puffiness are normal parts of the healing process and should not cause concern.
- For the first 7–10 days, protect your eyes from UV rays by wearing dark sunglasses when going outside.
- Sleep with your head elevated on pillows above chest level for five days post-surgery.
- Avoid applying makeup for at least two days after the stitches are removed. Applying and removing makeup requires pressing and rubbing the eye area, which can interfere with healing and increase the risk of infection.
- Avoid intense physical activity during the first week of recovery.
- Do not use contact lenses during the recovery period; opt for glasses instead.
Most patients can return to work approximately one week after surgery.
Are there risks and adverse outcomes of lower eyelid surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks of bleeding and infection.
Complications are extremely rare when the surgery is performed by an experienced surgeon. However, some patients may experience issues such as dry or irritated eyes, difficulty closing the eyelids, or temporary vision problems.
Before and After
FAQ
How long does the surgery last?
The procedure typically lasts 1–2 hours, and patients are discharged on the same day.
Is the recovery painful?
Most patients experience minimal to moderate discomfort, which is easily managed with prescribed medications.
When can I expect to see the final results?
Initial results will be visible immediately, but the final appearance is achieved once swelling and bruising subside, typically after a few weeks.
What is lower eyelid surgery?
Lower eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the lower eyelids, reducing under-eye bags, tightening the skin, and creating a refreshed facial appearance.
Is the removal of "bags" under the eyes performed under local or general anesthesia?
Lower eyelid surgery is most commonly performed under intravenous sedation (analgosedation), but local anesthesia may be an option in some cases, depending on the extent of the procedure and patient preference.
Does lower eyelid surgery hurt?
During the procedure, the patient feels no pain as they are under anesthesia. Postoperative mild pain and discomfort may occur but are effectively managed with prescribed analgesics.
How long is the recovery after lower eyelid surgery?
Recovery typically lasts 7–14 days. Swelling and bruising usually subside within the first ten days, and stitches are removed after seven days. Most patients return to daily activities within two weeks.
Are scars visible after lower eyelid surgery?
The incision is made below the lash line or inside the eyelid, making scars almost invisible once fully healed.
What types of under-eye bags exist?
Under-eye bags can be categorized as:
- Puffy “bags” caused by accumulated fat.
- Dark circles resulting from thin skin or pigmentation.
- Hollow under-eye bags caused by a loss of volume.
Can under-eye bags with xanthelasmas be removed?
Yes, under-eye bags and xanthelasmas can be surgically removed with an individualized approach tailored to each patient.
Are there non-surgical methods for removing under-eye bags?
Yes, under-eye bags can be treated with non-surgical methods such as fillers, chemical peels, or laser treatments. However, for permanent results, especially for “bags” under the eyes, surgical methods are the most effective.
Can puffy under-eye bags be surgically removed?
Yes, lower eyelid surgery is the ideal solution for removing puffy under-eye bags. The procedure eliminates excess fat and tightens the skin.
What are the potential risks of lower eyelid surgery?
Complications are rare but can include temporary swelling, bruising, infections, eyelid eversion, or visible scarring. An experienced surgeon and proper postoperative care significantly minimize these risks.
