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Sydney Lower Blepharoplasty

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Lower Blepharoplasty with dr turner

Lower blepharoplasty, also called a lower eyelid lift surgery, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes or repositions excess fat deposits under the eyes. It also involves the removal of excess skin in the lower eyelid. During the procedure, incisions are created inside or below the lower eyelid. Through these incisions, the fat pads are accessed and are either removed or redistributed.

What is a Lower Blepharoplasty?

Lower blepharoplasty, also called a lower eyelid lift, targets the lower eyelids and area under the eyes. It removes or repositions excess fat deposits in these areas. In addition, the procedure also tightens and removes excess skin in the lower eyelid to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Lower blepharoplasty is usually done under general anaesthesia – especially when combined with an upper blepharoplasty.

Suitable Candidates for a Lower Blepharoplasty

Suitable candidates for lower blepharoplasty are looking to address:

  • Excess fat deposits under the eyes
  • Excess skin under the eyes
  • Skin creases and wrinkles under the eyes

In addition, suitable candidates must also be in good overall health with no bleeding or clotting disorders. Moreover, they must be non-smokers or are willing to quit smoking before and after the procedure. They must also have realistic expectations regarding the procedure.

How is Lower Blepharoplasty Performed?

A lower eyelid lift is usually performed under general anaesthesia so you will be asleep during the procedure. Some patients may be suitable for lower blepharoplasty under local anaesthesia depending on the surgeon’s recommendation.

Here’s what to expect during lower blepharoplasty:

  • You will be asked to sit in a surgical chair or lie on the table, with your head leaning backward on a support cushion.
  • You will be asked to close your eyes.
  • Dr Turner will start by cleaning your lower eyelid area with an antiseptic solution. He will then apply drapes to isolate the surgical area.
  • You will be given anaesthesia.
  • The lower blepharoplasty incision is then created along the lower eyelid.
  • Dr Turner will remove the fat pads under the eyes.
  • He will then suspend the lower eyelid muscles using sutures to pull the eyelid up.
  • The lower eyelid will be tightened using sutures.
  • Dr Turner will remove any excess skin.
  • He will then close the incisions using thin sutures.
  • Dr Turner will clean your eyes to remove any debris.

Depending on the amount of fat or excess skin in the lower eyelid, the procedure can take around 20-45 minutes to perform. You can go home after the procedure or you may need to stay overnight depending on your health condition. Keep in mind that you won’t be able to drive after lower blepharoplasty. The procedure can temporarily irritate the eyes and compromise your vision. Thus, you may need to arrange for someone to drive you home.

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Specialist plastic surgeon

Dr Scott J turner

Dr Turner FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons – Plastic Surgery) is a Sydney Plastic Surgeon with clinics in the Eastern Suburbs at Bondi Junction and Northern Beaches at Manly.

Dr Scott J Turner has over a decade of experience in private practice solely focused on performing cosmetic surgery.

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Dr Scott J Turner Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons American Society of Plastic Surgeons Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons Royal Australasian College of Surgeons Realself

Recovery after Lower Blepharoplasty

In the first few days after a lower blepharoplasty, you may experience the following:

  • Double vision
  • Burning sensation in the eyes
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Watery eyes
  • Itching of the eyes
  • Pain

You can resume physical activity gradually depending on the recommendation of the surgeon. This includes walking and light movements around the house. Depending on your recovery, you can go back to work 2-3 days after the procedure.

Keep in mind that bruising and swelling peak during the first week, and will decrease gradually over 2-3 weeks. You can wear sunglasses after a lower eyelid lift to keep your eyes protected from sun rays and hide the temporary swelling and bruising.

Risks & Complications Associated with Lower Blepharoplasty Surgery

Like any other surgery, lower blepharoplasty has risks and complications, such as:

  • Surgical site infection
  • Bleeding from the wound
  • Eye irritation
  • Inability to properly close the eyes (if the eyelids are tightened too much)
  • Problems with eye movement (due to eye muscle injury)
  • Sustained vision problems (rare)

Reasons for Having a Lower Blepharoplasty

Patients who want to address aesthetic and functional issues related to the under-eye area may consider lower blepharoplasty, also known as lower eyelid surgery. They may choose to undergo this procedure to reduce the appearance of excess fat in the under-eye area, which is often attributed to the natural ageing process. As the skin ages, it loses elasticity, and the support structures weaken, causing fat pads to become more prominent.

Another reason for opting for lower blepharoplasty is to diminish the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines under the eyes, which become more pronounced with collagen loss as skin ages. The procedure involves removing or repositioning excess skin and fat in the under-eye region, which in turn reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

In addition to cosmetic reasons, patients may choose to undergo lower blepharoplasty for medical purposes, such as addressing impairment in peripheral vision due to descending or excess lower eyelid skin. For patients with this condition, the excess skin can impair their field of vision, affecting daily activities like driving and reading. Lower blepharoplasty can alleviate these obstructions, potentially increasing visual clarity.

Our Philosophy on Lower Blepharoplasty

At FacePlus Aesthetics, our philosophy regarding lower blepharoplasty revolves around achieving results that are in harmony with each patient’s overall facial structure. Dr Scott Turner values the principles of subtlety and precision in surgical practice. The intent is to address the patient’s aesthetic or functional concerns while taking into consideration the facial anatomy.

In the initial consultation, considerable time is invested in understanding the patient’s specific aesthetic desires and any functional needs they may have. This in-depth discussion helps Dr Turner customise the surgical plan to effectively address each patient’s unique concerns. These consultations are also crucial for setting realistic expectations, educating patients on the potential outcomes of the procedure, and discussing what the surgery can and cannot achieve.

Our dedication to patient care continues well beyond the procedure itself. Comprehensive pre-operative and postoperative support is a cornerstone of our practice, ensuring that each patient is well-prepared for their surgery and receives the necessary care during their recovery. We aim to provide a supportive environment that encourages open communication, allowing patients to express concerns and ask questions at any point in their journey. This level of ongoing engagement helps ensure that patients feel supported and informed, fostering a positive experience from initial consultation to postoperative care.

How the Procedure is Performed

Lower blepharoplasty at FacePlus Aesthetics is carefully performed under local anaesthesia with sedation, or general anaesthesia may be used depending on the complexity of the surgery and the patient’s preference for comfort. Dr Scott Turner initiates the procedure by making a strategic incision either just below the lash line or through a transconjunctival approach inside the lower eyelid. The transconjunctival approach allows the incision to be hidden inside the eyelid, concealing any potential scarring.

During the surgery, Dr Turner addresses excess fat and skin under the eyes. Fat may be removed or redistributed, and excess skin is carefully trimmed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. The techniques employed are tailored specifically to each patient’s anatomical structure and aesthetic goals, ensuring that the changes are subtle.

After making the necessary modifications to the fat and skin, the incisions are meticulously closed using fine sutures. These sutures are typically designed to be removed within about a week following the procedure, marking the beginning of the healing phase. The duration of the surgery usually ranges from one to two hours.

Recovery Period

The recovery period following lower blepharoplasty varies among individuals, depending on their specific procedure and personal healing characteristics. During the initial days post-surgery, it is common for patients to experience bruising and swelling around the eyes, which gradually diminish over time. Dr Scott Turner provides comprehensive care instructions tailored to each patient’s needs.

Patients are typically advised to take a minimum of one week off from work, school, or other daily responsibilities to allow sufficient time for the initial healing phase. During this period, it is crucial to avoid any strenuous physical activities that could exacerbate swelling or disrupt the recovery. Keeping the head elevated, especially while sleeping, and applying cold compresses are recommended strategies to help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.

To ensure that the recovery is progressing as expected, Dr Turner schedules follow-up visits. These appointments are essential for monitoring the healing process, making any necessary adjustments to postoperative care, and addressing any patient concerns. While the initial healing signs, such as reduced swelling and bruising, may be evident within a few weeks, the full recovery process and the stabilisation of the final results can take several weeks. During this time, the tissues adjust and settle into their new positions. These follow-up visits are an important aspect of patient care.

Risks and Complications

Like all surgical procedures, lower blepharoplasty carries inherent risks and potential complications that patients must consider. Common immediate postoperative effects such as swelling, bruising, and discomfort are typically experienced by patients. These symptoms are generally manageable with prescribed medications and adherence to postoperative care guidelines provided by Dr Scott Turner.
In addition to these common side effects, there are risks of infection, which can be reduced by closely following the postoperative care instructions. Less common complications include scarring, which is usually concealed within the natural creases of the eyelids but may be more noticeable in some cases. Patients might also experience temporary changes in sensation around the treated area or asymmetry in the healing of the eyelids, which could require additional interventions. More significant but rare complications might include persistent dry eyes, difficulty in fully closing the eyes, or ectropion—where the lower eyelid pulls away from the eye. These conditions may necessitate further medical or surgical treatment to correct. Dr Turner ensures that all patients are thoroughly informed about these potential risks and complications before proceeding with the surgery.

To mitigate these risks and monitor recovery, Dr Turner schedules regular follow-up appointments. These sessions are essential for assessing the healing process and promptly addressing any complications that may arise. This vigilant postoperative care is crucial in managing any issues effectively and ensuring the safety and satisfaction of the patient throughout the recovery process.

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Dr Scott J Turner Specialist Plastic Surgeon “We are equally as passionate about cosmetic plastic surgery as we are about you and your experience with us. We are here to listen, educate, and support you throughout your cosmetic surgical journey.”

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Manly NSW 2095

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Suite 1902, Level 19 Westfield Tower 2 101 Grafton Street
Bondi Junction NSW 2022