Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty Procedure and Recovery
Preoperative Preparation
Before undergoing lower blepharoplasty, you will have a consultation with Dr. Grant Moore during which you will discuss your aesthetic concerns and goals. He will review your medical history evaluate your health and whether you are a good candidate for this procedure. Dr. Moore will also evaluate your eyelid anatomy, skin type, and overall health. He will also take photos of your eyelids before and after the procedure.
If there are certain medications that increase the risk of bleeding such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs, they may need to be temporarily discontinued. If you smoke, it is important to stop smoking several weeks before and after the procedure because smoking interferes with healing.
- Incision locations: If you are a good candidate the next step is a discussion of location of the incisions. There are two options:
- Transcutaneous Approach: An incision is made just below the lower eyelashes. This approach allows for the removal or repositioning of excess skin and fat.
- Transconjunctival Approach: An incision is made inside the lower eyelid, which is ideal for patients who need fat removal or redistribution but do not require skin removal.
- Anesthesia: You will also discuss your anesthesia choice and agree on your preferences based on that discussion. Lower blepharoplasty can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s and surgeon’s preferences. Local anesthesia with sedation allows the patient to be relaxed and pain-free during the procedure, while general anesthesia renders the patient completely unconscious.
Here are the steps involved with a lower blepharoplasty. Every step will have been discussed with Dr. Moore prior to the procedure to ensure you understand the procedure and that Dr. Moore understands your choices, where they are available.
- Incision Placement: Dr. Moore will make an incision either just below the lower lash line (transcutaneous approach) or inside the lower eyelid (transconjunctival approach). The choice of incision depends on the specific needs and anatomy of each patient. The placement will have been determined by discussion with Dr. Moore.
- Fat Removal or Redistribution: Dr. Moore will remove or redistribute excess fat to eliminate or reduce the appearance of under-eye bags. In some cases, fat may be repositioned to fill hollows and create a smoother contour.
- Skin and Muscle Adjustment: If desired, Dr. Moore may remove a small amount of excess skin and tighten the underlying muscle to enhance the results.
- Closure: The incisions are closed with fine sutures. In the transcutaneous approach, sutures are placed along the lash line, and in the transconjunctival approach, the incisions are typically self-sealing and do not require sutures.
After the procedure, patients will receive specific postoperative care instructions to ensure proper healing and optimal results. These instructions may include:
- Applying cold compresses to the eyes to reduce swelling and bruising.
- Using prescribed eye drops or ointments to keep the eyes lubricated and prevent infection.
- Keeping the head elevated, even while sleeping, to minimize swelling.
- Avoiding strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending over for a few weeks.
- Attending follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor the healing process and remove any sutures if necessary.
Recovery from lower blepharoplasty typically takes several weeks. Initial swelling and bruising usually subsides within the first two weeks, although subtle swelling may persist for a few months. Most patients can return to work and normal activities within 10 to 14 days. Final results, characterized by a smoother, more youthful lower eyelid appearance, are typically seen after a few months once the tissues have fully healed.
As with any surgical procedure, lower blepharoplasty carries potential risks and complications, including:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Dry eyes
- Temporary or permanent changes in vision
- Asymmetry
- Difficulty closing the eyes
Dr. Moore and his surgical staff will discuss these risks with patients. Patients are advised to follow all pre- and postoperative instructions to minimize complications and ensure the best possible outcome.
Lower blepharoplasty offers a range of aesthetic, functional, and psychological benefits. It can significantly enhance the appearance of the lower eyelids, resulting in a more youthful, rested, and attractive look, while also addressing any discomfort or vision issues caused by excess skin and fat.
At a Glance
Grant Moore, MD
- Board Certified, Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon
- Over 5000 blepharoplasty surgeries performed
- Assistant Professor, University of Arizona-Phoenix
- Learn more
