What is Lower Eyelid Surgery (Lower Blepharoplasty)?
Lower eyelid surgery is a cosmetic procedure aimed at correcting puffiness, bags, wrinkles, and sagging under the eyes. These issues, often caused by aging, can give a tired, sleep-deprived, or even sad appearance. With lower blepharoplasty, the signs of aging around the eyes are reduced, resulting in a younger and healthier look.
This surgery is not only performed for aesthetic purposes; in some cases, it may also help improve vision by removing excess skin that droops into the visual field.
What Causes Under-Eye Bags?
There are several main causes of puffiness or bags under the eyes:
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Aging: As we age, the skin around the eyes loses its elasticity, muscles weaken, and fat pads begin to protrude.
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Genetics: Those with a family history of under-eye bags may develop them earlier in life.
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Irregular sleep patterns: Poor or insufficient sleep can lead to swelling and dark circles under the eyes.
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Excess salt or alcohol: These can cause the body to retain fluid, which may collect under the eyes.
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Allergies and sinus issues: These can lead to either temporary or long-term puffiness beneath the eyes.
Aging: As we age, the skin around the eyes loses its elasticity, muscles weaken, and fat pads begin to protrude.
Genetics: Those with a family history of under-eye bags may develop them earlier in life.
Irregular sleep patterns: Poor or insufficient sleep can lead to swelling and dark circles under the eyes.
Excess salt or alcohol: These can cause the body to retain fluid, which may collect under the eyes.
Allergies and sinus issues: These can lead to either temporary or long-term puffiness beneath the eyes.
How is Lower Eyelid Surgery Performed?
Lower blepharoplasty is a highly individualized procedure. The surgeon evaluates the patient’s skin texture, the severity of the puffiness, and overall facial anatomy to determine the most appropriate technique.
Steps of the Surgery:
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Anesthesia: Usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation. The patient remains awake but comfortable and pain-free. General anesthesia may be used if preferred.
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Incisions:
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In cases of mild puffiness, a transconjunctival approach may be used. The incision is made inside the lower eyelid, leaving no visible scar.
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If there is excess skin as well, an incision just below the lash line is used to remove both skin and fat.
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Fat repositioning/removal: Protruding fat is either removed or reshaped to restore a natural contour under the eye.
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Closing the incision: The incision is closed with fine sutures. Any scars usually become virtually invisible over time.
Anesthesia: Usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation. The patient remains awake but comfortable and pain-free. General anesthesia may be used if preferred.
Incisions:
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In cases of mild puffiness, a transconjunctival approach may be used. The incision is made inside the lower eyelid, leaving no visible scar.
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If there is excess skin as well, an incision just below the lash line is used to remove both skin and fat.
In cases of mild puffiness, a transconjunctival approach may be used. The incision is made inside the lower eyelid, leaving no visible scar.
If there is excess skin as well, an incision just below the lash line is used to remove both skin and fat.
Fat repositioning/removal: Protruding fat is either removed or reshaped to restore a natural contour under the eye.
Closing the incision: The incision is closed with fine sutures. Any scars usually become virtually invisible over time.
Duration: Approximately 45–90 minutes
Hospital stay: Same-day discharge
Suture removal: Typically 5–7 days after surgery
What is the Recovery Process Like?
Recovery after lower eyelid surgery is generally quick and comfortable.
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Days 1–3: Mild swelling and bruising may occur. Cold compresses and keeping the head elevated help reduce swelling.
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Within 1 week: Bruising begins to fade, and sutures are usually removed.
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After 10 days: Most patients can return to their social and professional lives.
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After 1 month: Final results begin to settle, revealing a refreshed and youthful eye contour.
Days 1–3: Mild swelling and bruising may occur. Cold compresses and keeping the head elevated help reduce swelling.
Within 1 week: Bruising begins to fade, and sutures are usually removed.
After 10 days: Most patients can return to their social and professional lives.
After 1 month: Final results begin to settle, revealing a refreshed and youthful eye contour.
Are the Results Permanent?
Yes, the results of lower blepharoplasty are long-lasting. However, because the natural aging process continues, some mild changes may occur over 10–15 years. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and skincare routine helps prolong results.
Who is a Good Candidate for Lower Eyelid Surgery?
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Individuals over 30 with puffiness or sagging under the eyes
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Those who feel they constantly look tired or upset
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People seeking a more youthful, energetic facial appearance
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Individuals in good overall health
Individuals over 30 with puffiness or sagging under the eyes
Those who feel they constantly look tired or upset
People seeking a more youthful, energetic facial appearance
Individuals in good overall health
Will the Results Look Natural?
Absolutely. When performed by an experienced surgeon, lower eyelid surgery yields very natural results. The goal is not to change your appearance, but to enhance your natural features and give you a fresher look.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will there be visible scarring?
No. With the transconjunctival approach, there is no external scar. If a skin incision is needed, the scar is placed discreetly below the lash line and fades significantly over time.
Will this procedure remove dark circles?
If the dark circles are due to pigmentation or blood vessels, surgery alone may not fully eliminate them. However, by reducing puffiness, the area appears smoother and brighter.
Will I need to have the procedure again?
Typically, no. When properly performed, the results last for many years without the need for revision.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients report only mild discomfort, and over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient.