Lower eyelid surgery, also known as lower blepharoplasty, is a highly effective procedure for reducing under-eye bags, puffiness, and sagging skin. By removing or repositioning excess fat and tightening the lower eyelid area, this cosmetic treatment smooths wrinkles, restores firmness, and creates a more rested appearance. Optimal for patients in Mission Viejo and Orange County seeking under-eye rejuvenation without a heavy or overdone look.
The lower eyelids have very thin skin with thin muscle and attachments beneath. Below this intermediate layer are three small fat pouches that may create cosmetic concerns with age. Unlike the upper lid that develops redundant skin and droopiness, the lower eyelids begin to form fine lines or “crepiness” of the skin and “bags” of fat beneath the lids.
Blepharoplasty may be an option when factors like aging, sun damage, smoking, and genetics weaken the muscles and tissue that support the eyelids.
- Puffy fat deposits under the eyelids
- Loose, sagging, and/or folded lower eyelid skin
- Under eye bags
- Fine wrinkles in the lower eyelids
- Excess skin in the lower eyelids
What You Can Expect
Reverse visible signs of aging with the best facelift in Orange County. This procedure lifts and tightens facial tissue to address sagging skin and deep creases, delivering natural-looking, resilient results.
After the procedure, most patients see improvement in the cheeks, jawline jowling, and neckline.
The term “face lift” refers to the lower half of the face, while the eyes, brow, and forehead areas are addressed in a separate procedure.
A lower eyelid blepharoplasty may be an option for patients who are in good overall medical health and who have exhibited signs of aging affecting the lower eyelid and cheek. Individuals with eye diseases or a pre-existing history of severe eye dryness will need to be very cautious when considering the procedure.
Patients need to form realistic expectations before undergoing cosmetic blepharoplasty. They should understand that the procedure can enhance appearance and boost self-confidence, but won’t radically alter the face.
The two approaches to performing a lower eyelid blepharoplasty are transconjunctival incision (done through the inside of the eyelid and doesn’t leave a scar) and subciliary incision (an external approach, with an incision made just below the eyelashes).
A transconjunctival incision will be done for patients who need fat removal. The fat will be visualized directly and removed as needed. Patients with excess external skin, or very creepy or loose skin, will have a transconjunctival incision coupled with the subciliary or external incision.
When both incisions are done, patients may have a very thin layer of eyelid tissue left intact, thus decreasing eyelid trauma and the risk of postsurgical scarring.
After the procedure, external incisions are closed with incredibly thin sutures and internal incisions heal without the need for sutures or suture removal.
After lower eyelid blepharoplasty, patients should apply artificial tears, lubricating ointment, and cold compresses to support healing and minimize side effects. Most patients are able to return to work within a few days to a week. However, it’s important to avoid exercise and strenuous activities for at least two weeks.
Sutures will be removed six to seven days after the procedure. Most of the swelling and other side effects should subside within two weeks. Patients should avoid wearing contact lenses and eye makeup for two weeks after surgery. Wearing sunglasses can help hide incisions or bruising. Applying postsurgical sunscreen to the incisions is key to minimizing scarring.
What They Say
“Dr. Pollei and staff were excellent from start to finish. The results of my surgery are unbelievable, so natural nobody really notices I had a full face lift and best of all — my scars are healed and gone!”
— H.T.
“My results were better than I expected and not ONE person has asked if I had work done. Only compliments that I look happy and younger lately! Dr. Pollei is a true professional.”
— C.M.
“It is hard to believe that having minor surgery on my face could be a pleasant experience but it certainly was. No scar, very nicely done.”
— G.C.
Look Significantly Younger
With a Face Lift
One of the most effective and long-lasting approaches to a younger-looking appearance.
