Lower Blepharoplasty

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Blepharoplasty is now the most popular facial plastic surgery procedure after rhinoplasty. The popularity of this procedure reflects the importance of the eyes in improving overall appearance. In fact,  two-thirds of adults consider the eyes to be the defining feature of the  face. North Texans who are unhappy with the appearance of their eyes may consider a lower blepharoplasty, or lower eyelid lift, to improve their look and boost their confidence through a safe procedure with minimal downtime. Oculoplastic Associates of Texas, with offices in Dallas and Plano, can improve puffiness and bags under the eyes for a  more awake, more youthful, and more energetic appearance.

For the lower eyelid, an incision is made on the inside lining of the eyelid to minimize scarring; the puffy “bags” are accessed from this incision and are removed and/or repositioned to improve the contour of the lower lid.  Occasionally, a very small incision just below the eyelashes can be made to remove skin if necessary. 

After lower eyelid surgery, patients will have temporary swelling and bruising during their first 10-14 days after the surgery. Patients should rest and recover in 1 – 2 weeks before returning to work and normal activities. Patients will need to return to the office 5–7 days after their surgery for a follow up appointment with their surgeon to check their recovery progress and have their stitches removed. 

Applying cold compresses following eyelid surgery can help to diminish bruising and swelling. In addition, tenderness after surgery is greatly reduced by cold compresses, so most patients require no prescription pain medicine. Sleeping with an elevated head (pillows or reclining chair) will decrease swelling as well. Some physicians and patients believe in products made with Arnica will lessen bruising and swelling.

Many patients only require one eyelid to be operated on or sometimes much less surgery to be performed on one lid compared to the other. The key is to produce a symmetrical result.