Lower Eyelid Surgery
Lower eyelid surgery which is also known as lower eyelid blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes fat deposits and loose skin that develop on the lower eyelid due to aging causes and non-aging causes. Other factors that accelerate this process include, genetic, and exposure to sun damage. Younger people are now choosing to have this surgical procedure done to eradicate the puffiness under they eyes as a result from congenital excess fatty tissue.
This procedure is often done in tandem with other procedures like upper eyelid blepheroplasty, and facelift or forehead lift. It can also be covered by insurance if a condition such as peripheral vision that is affected due to overhanging of the upper lids is present which may cause the need for both upper and lower eyelids reshaping.
During the surgery to reshape the lower eyelid, an incision is made along the lash line also where creases are formed when you smile. The excess fat, muscles and skin are then removed followed with fine suturing to close the incision made earlier. After three to five days, your surgeon will remove the sutures. For younger people who may have a pocket of fat beneath the lower eyelids without the presence of loose skin, a much more recommended procedure that is called transconjunctival blepharoplasty is often chosen. Incision is made inside the lower eyelid without leaving any visible scar. This procedure reduces the puffiness in the lower eyelid without tightening the skin.
The pre-operative consultation with the surgeon is as important as the operation itself. Before you go into surgery to refashion your lower eyelid, you must make it clear to your surgeon regarding the changes that you would want to make. The surgeon will list and explains options that are available for you, the procedure, its risks and limitations. He or she will also inform you of the type of anesthesia used, surgical facility and costs.
A complete medical history will be taken and the skin and fat around your eyes will be inspected with special attention given in the examination of your eyesight, peripheral vision, and tear ducts. Remember to mention any eye-related symptoms you have such as dryness, pain or changes in vision. Don’t forget to tell your surgeon if you have health issues such as thyroid problems, hypertension or other circulatory disorders, heart disease, diabetes or any other serious medical condition.
Recovery time varies from one person to the next. Often, isolated eyelid surgery that is performed under local anesthesia has a total recovery time ranging from seven to ten days. Immediately after the surgery, you may experience a tight sensation around the eyes, with little discomfort that lasts for a few days. An ointment to lubricate your eyes will be applied by the surgeon and blurred vision which is temporary will be experienced.
Lower eyelid blepharoplasty makes a remarkable difference in the appearance of your face by lifting off the tiredness and old age through the process of removing excess, wrinkly or puffy skin beneath the eyes. The desired outcome would be having fresher looking; youthful eyes that appear more alert and this will last for many years to come.