Procedure Time 1 - 2 Hours
Recovery Time 14 - 28 Days
The Lower Eyelid Procedure
When you start to notice bags under your eyes, drooping eyelids, or excess skin gathering around the lower eyelids, it may be time to consider lower blepharoplasty (lower eyelid surgery). This procedure can improve the appearance of the area beneath your eyes by reducing bagginess and creating a more youthful look. Lower blepharoplasty can enhance your overall appearance and boost your confidence.
As with all surgical procedures, it's important to discuss your expectations and concerns with Dr. Shire before moving forward.
The lower eyelid procedure typically takes less than an hour per eyelid to complete. After administering local anesthesia, Dr. Shire will make a small incision just below your lash line or inside the lower eyelid to remove excess skin, correct eyelid issues, and remove or redistribute excess fat.
There are two standard lower blepharoplasty techniques that Dr. Shire may use during your procedure:
- Transcutaneous Blepharoplasty - This traditional approach involves an incision made just below the lash line on the exterior of the lower eyelid, allowing Dr. Shire to remove or reposition fat, tighten muscles, and remove excess skin.
- Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty - In this approach, the incision is made inside the lower eyelid. Transconjunctival blepharoplasty is often chosen when the primary concern is excess fat, as it leaves no visible scar. However, this technique does not allow for the removal of excess skin.
Before and After Photos
Your Lower Blepharoplasty - Step by Step
Curious about how a lower blepharoplasty is performed and how to ensure a safe and successful procedure? From the initial consultation to recovery and the final result, here's what you can expect when preparing for your under-eye surgery.
The Consultation
Before the procedure, you'll meet with Dr. Shire to discuss your goals, review your medical history, and develop a customized surgical plan. Dr. Shire may also take photographs of your eyes for reference and planning purposes.
Preparing for Your Surgery
Prior to surgery, you may be asked to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin or other blood thinners, as they could increase the risk of bleeding. You'll also receive specific instructions on eating, drinking, and medication use on the day of your surgery.
The Anesthesia
The procedure may be performed under local anesthesia with sedation (you're awake but the surgical area is numbed) or under general anesthesia (you're completely asleep). Dr. Shire usually uses conscious sedation with local anesthesia. The best option depends on the complexity of the procedure and your personal comfort level.
During Your Procedure
For a transcutaneous blepharoplasty, Dr. Shire will make an incision just below the lash line of the lower eyelid, allowing for the removal or repositioning of fat, muscle tightening, and removal of excess skin. Sutures will be used to close the incisions and are typically removed after a few days. In some cases, dissolvable sutures may be used instead. In a transconjunctival blepharoplasty, the incision is made inside the lower eyelid, allowing Dr. Shire to address excess fat without leaving a visible scar.
Recovery Mode
After the procedure, you'll be monitored in a recovery room. Some bruising and swelling are to be expected, which will gradually decrease over the coming weeks. You may also notice a temporary change in the shape of your eyes due to swelling from the surgery, but this will resolve over time.
The recovery process generally takes about 14 days, though full healing from lower blepharoplasty may take longer.
Follow-up Care
Dr. Shire will provide specific postoperative instructions and schedule follow-up visits to monitor your healing progress. After the surgery, you may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, most of which can be managed with medication and should subside within one to two weeks. You may also experience dry eyes, itchiness, or irritation, for which Dr. Shire can prescribe appropriate treatment.
Any scars resulting from the incisions made during surgery are typically well-hidden and will fade over time. Dr. Shire will address any concerns about scar management with you, as needed. Following all postoperative instructions is essential for ensuring optimal recovery and results.
Keep in mind that the exact recovery process can vary depending on the surgeon, the specific technique used, and the patient's individual needs and goals. As with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications, so it's important to have a thorough discussion with Dr. Shire before deciding to proceed with lower blepharoplasty.
What to Expect from Lower Blepharoplasty Results
After the healing process from your lower blepharoplasty, you will notice your enhanced appearance, decreased signs of aging, and enjoy long-lasting results.
- Improved Appearance: The most noticeable result will be a more refreshed and youthful look. Bags under your eyes should be eliminated or significantly reduced, and any excess skin or visible wrinkles in the lower eyelid area will be diminished.
- Decreased Signs of Aging: While lower blepharoplasty won't stop the aging process, it can reduce its signs and help you look younger and more rested.
- Long-lasting Results: The results of lower blepharoplasty are typically long-lasting, allowing you to maintain a youthful appearance for many years.
- Potential for Additional Procedures: Following a successful lower blepharoplasty, some patients opt for additional procedures, such as an upper blepharoplasty or brow lift, to further enhance their overall appearance.
It's important to note that each person's experience with lower blepharoplasty is unique. Your results will depend on several factors, including your overall health, age, skin type, and the specific surgical technique used.
As you continue to age, you may notice changes in your eyelids and consider additional procedures. Dr. Shire will be available to discuss these options and address any concerns at any time.
Who is a Good Candidate for Lower Blepharoplasty?
A good candidate for lower eyelid surgery typically includes individuals who are at least 30 years old and in good overall health. You may be considered a good candidate for lower blepharoplasty if you have:
- Bagginess Beneath Eyes - One of the primary reasons people opt for lower blepharoplasty is to reduce or remove under-eye bags, which are often caused by fat that has shifted forward due to the weakening of tissues and muscles that once held it in place.
- Drooping or Sagging Lower Eyelids - As we age, the skin loses elasticity, which can lead to sagging or drooping lower eyelids. Lower blepharoplasty can tighten and smooth this area, resulting in a more youthful and alert appearance.
- Good General Health - Candidates for surgery should be in good overall health, without medical conditions that could impede healing or increase surgical risks. Conditions such as glaucoma or a detached retina can raise the risk of complications from eyelid surgery.
- Non-Smoker - Smoking can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications. If you are a smoker, it's recommended to quit prior to undergoing any surgical procedure.
- Realistic Expectations - It's important to understand what lower blepharoplasty can achieve. While it can improve the appearance of the lower eyelids and help you look more youthful and well-rested, it won't fundamentally change your facial structure or make you look like an entirely different person.
As always, the decision to undergo lower blepharoplasty should be made in consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. Dr. Shire will evaluate your specific needs, discuss potential risks and benefits, and help you make an informed decision.
Lower Blepharoplasty Recovery
Complete recovery from lower blepharoplasty typically involves several stages, from immediate post-operative care to long-term recovery. Here's what you can expect at each stage:
Immediately Post-Surgery
After the procedure, Dr. Shire will apply ointment to your eyes and may place a cold compress over the area to minimize swelling. Depending on your specific case, you will be able to go home the same day, though you will need someone to drive you.
The First Few Days
In the first few days after surgery, it's common to experience some bruising and swelling. You may also have blurry vision from the ointment used during the procedure, along with mild discomfort.
One to Two Weeks After Surgery
If you have stitches, they are usually removed after about one week. Most patients can return to work and normal activities within two weeks of surgery. However, strenuous physical activities and anything that might strain your eyes, such as reading or watching television, should be avoided until approved by Dr. Shire. It's also important to avoid alcohol, smoking, and sun exposure, as these can prolong the healing process.
Long-Term Recovery
It may take several weeks for swelling and bruising to subside completely, but as they do, you will begin to see the final results of your surgery.
Throughout your recovery, it is essential to carefully follow all of Dr. Shire's post-operative instructions. These typically include using prescribed eye drops or ointments, keeping your eyes clean, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress.
Contact Dr. Shire immediately if you experience any signs of complications, such as excessive pain, redness, discharge, or vision changes. While lower blepharoplasty is generally a safe procedure with few complications, everyone heals at their own pace, and recovery times can vary based on individual circumstances.
How Much Does Lower Blepharoplasty Cost?
The cost of lower blepharoplasty depends on several factors, including:
- The surgeon's experience
- The geographic location of the surgery
- The specific details of the procedure (whether it will be performed in conjunction with other procedures)
The average surgeon's fee for lower blepharoplasty in the United States typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000. This is just the surgeon's fee, and the total cost of the procedure will likely also include hospital or surgical facility costs, anesthesia fees, prescription medication costs, post-surgery garments, and any necessary medical tests.
It's important to note that most health insurance plans do not cover cosmetic procedures like lower blepharoplasty unless there is a documented medical necessity, such as vision impairment caused by drooping eyelids. Be sure to check with your insurance provider and discuss payment options with our office.
While cost is an important factor, it should not be the only consideration when choosing a surgeon or a surgical procedure. The surgeon's experience, qualifications, and your comfort level should be top priorities, as this procedure requires a high level of skill and knowledge to achieve the best results and minimize potential risks.
Contact Shire Facial Plastic Surgery
At Shire Facial Plastic Surgery, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional results for your lower blepharoplasty, helping you achieve the appearance you desire. Our skilled team will carefully address concerns such as puffiness, excess skin, under-eye bags, and wrinkles, customizing the procedure to meet your unique needs and expectations. Take the first step by contacting us today to schedule your consultation.
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