The surgery can reduce swelling, which brightens the appearance and restores a more youthful appearance. The surgery can be performed without a scar on the inside of the lower eyelid, or if loose skin needs to be removed, the scar is placed inconspicuously below the lash line. The procedure can be combined with fat transfer to the lower eyelid area if necessary.
Who is suitable for lower eyelid surgery?
Aging, stress, heredity or lifestyle can cause changes in the lower eyelid area. Lower eyelid surgery is an effective solution when you want to remove eye bags, tighten sagging skin, smooth wrinkles and fine lines, reduce shadows and dark circles under the eyes, or restore a balanced and rested look.
The most common reasons for lower eyelid surgery are:
- Aging: As you age, the elasticity of the skin decreases, and fat accumulates in the lower eyelids, which can cause eye bags, puffiness, and a tired look.
- Hereditary factors: Some people have a genetic predisposition to eye bags and swelling in the lower eyelids at a young age.
- Swelling due to fluid retention: Lifestyle habits such as lack of sleep, excessive consumption of salty foods, or stress can cause fluid to accumulate in the lower eyelids, which increases swelling and “bagginess.”
- Aesthetic reasons: Many people want to improve their appearance and brighten their appearance by removing visible swelling and fat deposits from the lower eyelids, which can give a tired and aged appearance.
- Functional reasons: If swelling in the lower eyelids partially blocks the field of vision or causes discomfort, surgery may be necessary to correct functional problems.
What are the results of the treatment?
Lower eyelid surgery creates a fresher and more youthful appearance by reducing swelling, excess skin, and eye bags. The surgery removes excess fat and/or skin, which smoothes the skin and sagging folds. The result brightens the look and makes the eye area appear more balanced, less tired, and more youthful. Initial results are visible immediately, but the final result takes a few months to develop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Healing time
After the surgery, you will be able to go home the same day after a short observation. The wound will be kept dry for 24-48 hours, after which you can gently rinse the wounds according to your doctor’s instructions. Saunas, swimming and bathing should be avoided until the wound has healed, which is about 1-2 weeks. Bruising and swelling usually disappear within about 2 weeks, and you can wear makeup about 1-2 weeks after the procedure. You can usually return to work about 1-2 weeks after the surgery. The final result is usually visible after 3-6 months, when the swelling is completely gone and the scars have lightened. If a scar appears below the lash line, it usually heals imperceptibly, but the scar may be red during the healing phase.
How do I prepare for the procedure?
Weeks before the procedure:
· During the consultation with our surgeon, your health and suitability for the procedure will be assessed. Discuss your wishes and expectations with your surgeon. You may be asked to have various laboratory tests and other examinations to confirm your health status. Discuss with your surgeon about the medications and nutritional supplements you are taking. Certain medications (e.g. blood thinners, aspirin, ibuprofen), and some nutritional supplements (e.g. omega) can increase the risk of bleeding. Their use should be discontinued according to the surgeon’s instructions.
· Smoking impairs blood circulation, slows down wound healing and increases the risk of infection. We recommend that you stop smoking at least 4 weeks before the procedure and continue to be smoke-free after the procedure.
· Eat a varied and healthy diet and exercise regularly. Good general condition promotes recovery.
On the day of the procedure:
· Avoid alcohol at least 24 hours before the procedure, as alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding.
· Choose loose and comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and take off.
· Take the medications your surgeon has instructed you to take in the morning.
· If you are given sedatives, you will not be able to drive yourself. So arrange a ride home.
How does the procedure proceed?
During the consultation, you will be given an appointment time for the procedure. Please arrive on time. A nurse will welcome you and go through the procedure with you. You will be given a sedative and pain medication, and you will be prepared for the procedure.
The surgery can be performed without leaving a scar on the inside of the lower eyelid (transconjunctivally) or, if loose skin needs to be removed, the scar will be placed inconspicuously below the lash line. If necessary, the procedure can be combined with fat transfer to the lower eyelid area. After the procedure, you will be able to recover in peace in the follow-up room, where the operating room nurse will go through the aftercare instructions with you and book you an appointment for a follow-up visit.
What are the aftercare instructions?
After the procedure, keep your head elevated while sleeping and avoid heavy exertion during the first few days. Cold packs (not directly on the skin) every 10–15 minutes will help reduce swelling and bruising. Wash the wounds gently according to your doctor’s instructions. Stitches are usually removed after 5–7 days if an incision has been made below the lash line.
Avoid using makeup for the first 7–10 days. Follow the instructions for painkillers and antibiotics carefully. Bruising and swelling usually disappear within 1–2 weeks, and you can cover the bruises with makeup once the wounds have healed. Remember to protect your skin from the sun and use sunscreen, as fresh scars are sensitive to pigment formation.
