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.
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)
