Table of Contents
WHAT IS LOWER BLEPHAROPLASTY?
As we age the skin of the lower lids becomes thinner and accumulates sun damage (it is not a surprise that more than 85% of the eyelid cancers grow in the area of the lower lids). Gravity and laxity of the tissues also result in prolapse of fatty tissue underneath the skin. As the condition progresses the eyelids sag worsening the appearance of dark circles.
AM I CANDIDATE FOR LOWER BLEPHAROPLASTY?
Do you feel or people tell you that your eyes look tired ? Do you have dark circles, and bags under your eyes? Can you see the white part of your eye above the lower lid line? If you answer yes to any of these questions then you are probably a candidate for eyelid surgery. Dr. Glavas will help you set up goals and realistic expectations for your eyelids and face.
More specifically eyelid surgery in indicated for :
- Excess fatty deposits that appear as dark circles or puffiness in the lower eyelids
- Bags under the eyes
- Droopiness or laxity of the lower eyelids, showing white below the eye
- Excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelid
Lower eyelid surgery has some limitations. It will NOT improve the deep groove of the lower lids (tear trough deformity) caused by midface descent and may be addressed with additional procedures that can be performed at the same time with your eyelid surgery.
Candidates must be in good health and must be non-smokers. Patients who are smokers will need to quit in order to ensure that the risk of surgical and post-surgical complications is lowered. They will also need to avoid smoking during recovery.
WHAT WILL MY LOWER EYELID SURGERY CONSULTATION BE LIKE?
Patients who are interested in a lower blepharoplasty procedure will need to first schedule a consultation. During this consultation, the patient will answer questions about their general health and their medical history. This will include inquiries about allergies, past procedures, and pre-existing conditions.
The patient’s lower eyelids will be examined. Photographs may be taken to serve as a reference. Dr. Glavas will walk the patient through the details of the procedure, from preparation through recovery. Any concerns that the patient might have regarding the procedure can be addressed at this time.
Next, Dr. Glavas will create a surgical plan for the procedure. A date will then be set for the surgical session.
HOW IS THE PROCEDURE DONE?
The first step in a lower blepharoplasty procedure is the application of either general anesthesia or a combination of local anesthesia and sedation. This will ensure that the patient is comfortable and pain free.
Dr. Glavas offers more than one surgical technique for lower lid blepharoplasty. The condition and laxity of lower lid skin as well as laxity of lower lid supporting structures are defining factors on the surgical technique to be used.
External or through the skin blepharoplasty may be the procedure of choice for someone with excessive skin and significant lack of eyelid support. The procedure is performed through an incision just below the eyelash line. Muscle is removed or tightened and skin is removed after careful and precise measurements to avoid significant postoperative complications. At the end of the procedure stitches are used to close the skin incision.
Internal or transconjunctival blepharoplasty is the procedure of choice for most of Dr. Glavas’ patients because several advantages related to quicker recovery, avoidance of skin scar and prevention of eyelid retraction or rounding of the eye shape. Dr. Glavas commonly uses a carbon dioxide laser for the procedure to avoid excessive bleeding and shorten the recovery time. Skin resurfacing using the same laser in eligible individuals tightens and rejuvenates the skin.
CAN I HAVE OTHER PROCEDURES AT THE SAME TIME?
Midface lift , either through a subperiosteal approach or by performing a SOOF lift is commonly performed in combination with lower lid blepharoplasty. Upper lid lift along with full face laser skin resurfacing are also popular combination procedures.
Testimonials
“I was extremely pleased with the level of service and expertise. Dr. Glavas and staff are top notch. Highly recommend.”
HOW LONG IS THE RECOVERY TIME (DOWNTIME)?
The swelling and bruising from lower lid surgery accumulates in the lower lids and sometimes extends in the cheek area. Following the recommended postoperative care and use of products available from our office is important to reduce the recovery downtime.
The eyes are not patched after surgery and your vision is unaffected. The average recovery time is about one week for the swelling and bruising to resolve. Many of Dr. Glavas’ patients are able to continue their daily activities the day after the procedure. Strenuous activities such as lifting heavy weights are not recommended for the immediate postoperative period. Dr. Glavas can make your decision easier by going over with you the list of activities you may resume the day after surgery.
WHEN CAN I GO BACK TO WORK?
HOW MUCH DOES LOWER BLEPHAROPLASTY COST?
There are several factors that can determine the cost of lower blepharoplasty surgery. The techniques utilized in the procedure, the fees associated with anesthesia, and the total time required to perform the surgery can all affect the overall cost. Patients can discuss price during the consultation.
FINANCING YOUR PROCEDURE
ARRANGE A CONSULTATION
For more information about lower blepharoplasty in Boston or to schedule an appointment please call 617-262-0070 or contact us by email by filling in the form below