Lower-lid blepharoplasty (eye bag surgery) is a cosmetic procedure used to remove under-eye bags.
Eye bags are often age-related, and some people seek to have them surgically removed.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
What Is Eye Bag Surgery?
Verywell / Jessica Olah
Eye bags are described as saggy pouches under the eyes.
They develop in place of previously smooth, tighter-looking skin under the eyes.
Toget rid of eye bags, surgery may be an option.
Two surgical techniques are commonly used in lower lid blepharoplasty.
During the procedure, excess muscle and skin are trimmed.
The protruding fat is lessened or repositioned to flatten the lid.
Transconjunctival
With a transconjunctival approach, there is no scarring after surgery.
The incision is made inside the lower eyelid.
Contraindications
While the procedure is safe for most people, it is not suitable for everyone.
The potential to present a rejuvenated appearance can be a real confidence booster for some.
How to Prepare
Before undergoing eye bag surgery its important to follow your healthcare providers directions.
This may mean firstgiving up smokingor at least refraining from doing so for four weeks before surgery.
Smoking can interfere with the ocular surface and cause dry eyes.
This will help you consider and discuss realistic expectations.
At times, it may be done in a hospital setting.
In rare cases, if you oughta be admitted, you might expect to stay overnight.
You and your healthcare provider can discuss which pain control approach would be better for your situation.
During the Surgery
Your incision will be hidden along the lower lash-line.
Your surgeon will then remove any excess skin, muscle or fat, and may reposition the tissue.
After your procedure, the incision will be closed with fine sutures.
After the Surgery
You will likely be able to go home after just a few hours.
You likely wont need to wear any bandages.
However, it’s important to have realistic expectations as wrinkles can never be completely eliminated.
Recovery
Under-eye bag removal is generally well tolerated.
You should begin to see signs of recovery soon after your procedure.
During the immediate recovery period, cold packs may help with any swelling or bruising.
Keeping your head elevated can help minimize swelling.
Expect to have any stitches removed within the first three or four days after the procedure.
Long-Term Care
double-check to avoid any strenuous activity for the first couple of weeks.
Also, during this two-week period avoid using your contact lenses or wearing any makeup.
Murri M, Hamill EB, Hauck MJ, Marx DP.An update on lower lid blepharoplasty.Semin Plast Surg.
Cincinnati Eye Institute.Lower eyelid blepharoplasty, November 4, 2020.
Cleveland Clinic.Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty).
University of California San Francisco Health.Eyelid surgery.
