Also known as lower eyelid blepharoplasty, the surgery removes wrinkles and excess skin of the lower eyelid so that the eye looks more attractive and healthy. If your lower eyelid looks saggy and droopy then this procedure can tighten the lower eyelid skin and make it look younger. The surgery may involve the removal of skin or the addition/removal of fat from the lower eyelids.
How is the surgery performed?
Depending on the technique, the procedure may take 1-2 hours to complete.
A more general style of the surgery involves making an incision in the lower lash line. The doctor then removes your excess skin and fat tissues and then closes the opening with a suture. The surgery leaves a scar which will vanish after some time. The stitches are permanent and will be removed after a week of the procedure.
For young people, a transconjunctival blepharoplasty is performed in which an incision is made in the inside of the lower eye lid from where the fat is removed. No excess skin is removed in the procedure and the skin regains its elasticity after some days of the procedure.
Another non invasive procedure involves the use of laser to tighten the skin of the lower eyelids.
Who can have the surgery?
People who think that their eyes look tired and aged should have the surgery. Fatty young people, who have accumulated a lot of fat on their lower eyelids, may also consider having this procedure. The surgery does not lead to the removal of dark circles.
Recovery
The patient will generally recover from the surgery within 2 weeks; however, the surgery marks may be visible for around a year. You should wear sunglasses to avoid any irritation to the eyes and also stay away from polluted places that may make you rub your eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the side effects involved?
Although the side effects are rare, the surgery may bring with itself some minor risks. The risk of infection is always there; hence the patient should keep the eyelids well covered and not march into pollution for some days.
What should I do after the surgery?
Stay away from polluted places; sleep on clean bed sheets and pillow covers. Take mild pain killers to keep the pain at bay. If a lot of irritation persists, then you should get yourself checked for an infection. Keep your head elevated for two days after the surgery. Also, try and keep your eyes closed for the next 24 hours after the procedure, this will help you achieve the best results of surgery.
Who is the best candidate for the surgery?
Younger people are more preferred because their eyelids are elastic and can recover promptly. Also, the patient should be 18 years or older. The patient should not have any eye problems such as Glaucoma or other eye deformities.
What are the risks associated with this procedure?
Plastic surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries inherent risks and potential complications.
Please read our Risks and Complications of Plastic Surgery page.