Lower Blepharoplasty

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Beachwood and Cleveland, Ohio

A lower blepharoplasty, or lower eyelid lift, is a surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the appearance of the lower eyelids. It primarily addresses concerns related to under-eye bags, sagging skin, and wrinkles. This transformative cosmetic eye procedure aims to restore a youthful look by removing or repositioning fat and tightening the skin around the eyes.

As we age, the structures surrounding the eyes can undergo changes that make us appear tired, sad, or older than we feel. If you find yourself bothered by the appearance of your lower eyelids and want to consider an aesthetic enhancement, a lower eyelid lift may be the solution for you.

Based in Cleveland, Dr. Gregory Fedele is a board-certified plastic surgeon who can help you to rejuvenate your face with an eyelid lift.

If you wish to learn more or are considering this procedure, please contact Dr. Fedele’s practice at (216) 464-1616, or use this form to get in touch.

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About Lower Eyelid Lifts

A lower eyelid lift is a surgical intervention that focuses on improving the contours and appearance of the lower eyelids. The delicate skin around the eyes is among the thinnest on the body and is particularly susceptible to the effects of aging, fatigue, and genetics. Factors such as sun exposure, lifestyle choices, and hereditary conditions contribute to problems like under-eye bags and wrinkles. The loss of collagen and elastin also plays a significant role in skin elasticity and firmness. ⁽¹⁾

The number of lower eyelid surgeries performed each year has sharply increased, highlighting its growing popularity as an effective means of attaining a refreshed appearance. Studies show that blepharoplasty ranks among the top cosmetic surgical procedures worldwide. ⁽²⁾ And over 85% of patients in the United States are women. ⁽³⁾ Many individuals seek a lower eyelid lift for various reasons: to achieve a more alert expression, eliminate under-eye puffiness, and enhance their overall confidence.

Whether through fat repositioning, skin tightening, or a combination of techniques, this procedure offers a customized solution to meet each patient’s aesthetic goals. For individuals feeling self-conscious about their lower eyelids, this treatment can create profound improvements in facial harmony.

Types of Lower Blepharoplasty

There are several techniques employed during a lower eyelid lift, and your specific needs will determine which approach is most suitable.

Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty

This technique involves making an incision inside the lower eyelid. It allows excess fat to be removed without leaving any visible external scars. This approach is ideal for younger patients with sufficient skin elasticity who mainly have under-eye bags but do not require significant skin tightening.

Skin Excision Blepharoplasty

In this method, an incision is made just below the lower lash line. Excess skin and fat can be removed, allowing for both fat repositioning and skin tightening. This technique is particularly advantageous for mature patients experiencing significant sagging skin in addition to the presence of under-eye bags.

Fat Repositioning

This innovative technique involves moving fat from the bags beneath the eyes into areas that may have lost volume or support. This creates a more smooth transition between the lower eyelid and cheek, helping to maintain a youthful contour.

Canthopexy

Often combined with other procedures, this technique focuses on tightening the lateral canthus of the eyelid to improve the youthful shape of the lower eyelid while creating an elongated appearance. ⁽⁴⁾

Benefits

Restored Youthful Appearance: The procedure rejuvenates the lower eyelids, resulting in a more vibrant and youthful look.
Reduction of Under-Eye Bags: By eliminating excess fat in the area, patients experience a marked reduction in puffiness.
Smoother Skin Texture: Skin tightening techniques smooth out fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, contributing to a more polished appearance.
Improved Facial Harmony: The subtle enhancements promote balance within the face and improve overall aesthetics.
Enhanced Confidence: Patients frequently report improved self-esteem and increased happiness after seeing their new look.
Long-lasting Results: A well-performed lower eyelid lift can produce results that last many years, making it an excellent investment in one’s appearance.
Minimal Scarring: With careful placement of incisions, the potential for scarring is significantly reduced.
Comprehensive Treatment Options: The versatility of techniques means personalized solutions tailored specifically to meet your unique concerns.

Candidates

Suitable candidates for a lower eyelid lift typically include men and women who experience:

Baggy eyelids
Sagging or loose skin under the eyes
Fat deposits causing a puffy appearance
Overall unhappiness with eyelid appearance

Ideal candidates are generally healthy individuals, non-smokers, and possess realistic expectations of the outcome. Age may not be a strict limiting factor—the health of the patient and the integrity of their skin are more critical considerations. A consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Fedele can help determine if a lower eyelid lift is right for you.

Personal Consultation

Scheduling a personal consultation at Dr. Fedele’s practice in Cleveland is the first essential step in determining your candidacy for a lower eyelid lift. During this meeting, Dr. Fedele will conduct a thorough assessment of your medical history and discuss your cosmetic concerns. He will analyze the condition of your skin, underlying fat, and tissue structure around your eyes to formulate a detailed treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs.

It is crucial to understand every aspect of the procedure thoroughly and address any inquiries you might have. This collaborative process will allow Dr. Fedele to recommend the most suitable technique and discuss anticipated outcomes. To take the first step toward rejuvenating your appearance, reach out to our office at (216) 464-1616.

Preparation

After scheduling your surgery, you will receive precise preoperative instructions intended to ensure a smooth procedure and optimal recovery. These instructions may include:

Halting blood thinners, supplements, or medications as directed
Avoiding nicotine use prior to surgery and throughout the recovery period
Filling prescriptions for pain management and antibiotics in advance
Arranging transportation home if sedation or anesthesia will be utilized
Making time off work and social obligations to prioritize rest post-surgery

Procedure

Anesthesia: The procedure commences with anesthetic administration to ensure your comfort.
Incision Placement: Dr. Fedele will initiate the procedure based on the selected technique. For transconjunctival blepharoplasty, an incision is created inside the lower eyelid. In contrast, the skin excision technique involves an incision along the lower lash line.
Fat Removal/Repositioning: For patients requiring fat removal, excess fat pockets beneath the eyes will be addressed accordingly. In cases requiring fat repositioning, the tissue will be moved to restore natural contours.
Skin Adjustment: If necessary, excess skin will be trimmed to facilitate skin tightening, enhancing the overall result.
Closure: Incisions are meticulously sutured to promote healing and minimize scarring.

The entire procedure typically lasts between one to two hours, after which you will be closely monitored before being discharged home.

Recovery

Following your lower eyelid lift, you will experience some swelling and bruising, common parts of the healing process. To manage discomfort, prescribed medication will aid in your recovery. Here are key aspects of your recovery time:

Keeping your head elevated above heart level helps mitigate swelling.
Application of cold compresses, as advised, may soothe and decrease swelling.
Regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Fedele will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress.

Most patients return to routine activities within one to two weeks, although strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks until cleared by Dr. Fedele.

Results

The final results of lower eyelid lift surgery will begin to manifest as swelling subsides. Patients often notice a smoother, firmer lower eyelid area and a refreshed appearance. Results can last for many years, significantly improving facial aesthetics with appropriate post-operative care. Any scars from the incisions will gradually fade over time, becoming inconspicuous.

Corresponding & Complementary Procedures

Upper Blepharoplasty

By removing or repositioning excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper eyelid area, an upper eyelid lift aims to create a more youthful and alert eye appearance. Many people choose to undergo upper eyelid surgery due to aging, genetics, or lifestyle factors that lead to drooping or heavy upper eyelids, which can affect both vision and self-esteem. Upper blepharoplasty is frequently combined with lower blepharoplasty for comprehensive eye rejuvenation.

Facelift

A facelift, medically termed a rhytidectomy, is a popular cosmetic surgery designed to improve the visible signs of aging in the face and neck. This surgical procedure can reposition sagging facial tissues, tighten underlying muscles, and remove excess skin to create a more youthful appearance. Many individuals seek a facelift to combat the effects of aging, genetics, or environmental factors that lead to wrinkles and sagging skin. The mini facelift is also an option for patients who desire smaller incisions and focused rejuvenation in the lower face.

Cost of a Lower Eyelid Lift in Cleveland

The cost of a lower eyelid lift will vary based on individual needs and the complexity of the procedure. After your personal consultation, Dr. Fedele will provide a detailed estimate so you can plan for your aesthetic enhancement.

Do not hesitate to reach out to Dr. Fedele’s practice at (216) 464-1616 to inquire about financing options available for your lower eyelid lift.

FAQ

Can a lower eyelid lift be performed with other cosmetic surgeries?

Yes! Many patients opt to combine lower eyelid lifts with other procedures, such as upper eyelid lifts or facelifts, for comprehensive results.

How long do the results of lower blepharoplasty last?

Results typically last for several years, though natural aging continues. Many patients enjoy a significant reduction in signs of aging for five to ten years post-procedure.

Can I wear makeup after lower blepharoplasty?

Makeup application typically can resume about two weeks after your surgery, once healing has progressed.

Can a lower eyelid lift get rid of my under-eye bags?

Yes! A lower eyelid lift is designed to enhance the aesthetics of the lower eyelids by removing excess skin and fat. This procedure addresses issues such as sagging skin, puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines around the eyes.

Will I have noticeable scars after a lower eyelid lift?

Incisions are made carefully, with minimal visibility post-healing. In most cases, scars are discreet and hidden.

References

Ganceviciene R, Liakou AI, Theodoridis A, Makrantonaki E, Zouboulis CC. Skin anti-aging strategies. Dermato-Endocrinology. 2012;4(3):308-319. doi:https://doi.org/10.4161/derm.22804
Bater KL, Ishii M, Nellis JC, et al. A Dual Approach to Understanding Facial Perception Before and After Blepharoplasty. JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery. 2018;20(1):43-49. doi:https://doi.org/10.1001/jamafacial.2017.1099
Rostami S, de la Torre JI, Czyz CN. Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448181/
Demirci H, Qureshi Z, Bernard A, Grisolia AD, Jaru-Ampornpan P, Ozgonul C. Simplified technique for lateral canthal tendon canthopexy. Indian Journal of Ophthalmology. 2022;70(9):3403. doi:https://doi.org/10.4103/ijo.ijo_3126_21