As part of a correction to lower eyelids, the plastic surgeon makes incisions in natural eyelid lines, under eyelashes, so that traces are concealed as well as possible. The distance between an incision and the ciliary line varies depending on the Patient’s age. This shouldn’t affect visibility of the incisions afterwards, however. It sometimes is extended just below a corner of the eye. An incision on the inner side of the lower lid, across the conjunctival sac, is an alternative to cutting along the ciliary line.
The standard procedure continues to excise excess skin, to shape fat, and to shift muscle. Only in exceptional circumstances does the surgeon excise some of the muscle. The lower eyelid skin, once partly reduced, is appropriately tensioned and the eyelid is formed. The fat pad is shaped very precisely in a way that will prevent the impression of sunken eyes. Eye socket fat or muscle are normally not removed in young people.
Surgical incisions are sewn with very fine surgical sutures, removed after a week. As an alternative, absorbable sutures are used that vanish in the process of healing and don’t have to be removed.
Final effects of the lower blepharoplasty can be appreciated after up to 3 months. The process of healing can take even 2 years.
The lower blepharoplasty distinctly rejuvenates the eye region. Your eyes gain their former shine and seem more joyful and fuller of energy. Plastic surgery of the lower eyelid is not a solution to all aesthetic issues around your eyes, unfortunately.
Possible shades under your eyes, wrinkles in the eye corners or a drooping upper eyelid will require more procedures. Properly designed and executed operations in the region of your eye sockets can produce an improved overall effect of a younger face compared to results of a face, forehead or neck lifting itself.
Preparation for your procedure:
Patients planning or expecting a surgery are requested to read ‘Guide for the Patient – preparation for your procedure’, available in the INFORMATION section.
Recommendations following a lower blepharoplasty:
- Stay at the clinic: following local anaesthesia, the Patient will be able to return home on the very same day;
- Dressing: dressing is not normally applied following the blepharoplasty, it’s only used in case of insufficient eyelid issues;
- Reduced mobility: a sparing lifestyle and relaxation are recommended; the Patient should lie with their head raised; don’t drive after your surgery, avoid stooping, lifting burdens, and practice of sports for 2 weeks;
- Medication: antibiotics are not usually administered after the procedure; the Patient takes drugs agreed with their doctor, if needed; if eyelids fail to close, eye moisturising drops are recommended;
- Other: wear sunglasses for the first few days after your surgery to protect your eyes from light and wind and to limit blinking; cooling compresses to the eye region are recommended as well; you mustn’t go to a solarium, sauna or sunbathe for 6 months; protect your eyes from the sun;
- Follow-up visits: Patients must attend follow-up visits arranged with their physician.
Patients will be informed in detail about any recommendations following their procedures at the clinic.
