Lower Eyelid Reduction (Lower Blepharoplasty)
Why do patients request surgery for the lower eye lid?
Patients are self conscious about excess skin and wrinkling of the lower eyelids and of protruding eye bags. They feel that these features make them appear tired and attract comments from colleagues and acquaintances.
Why does this condition occur?
This appearance is a natural consequence of ageing. With the passage of time the skin stretches and becomes wrinkly and the normal fat which is present underneath the eyeball bulges forward causing eye bags to become prominent.
What does the surgery for this condition involve?
This condition can be corrected by an operation, which is usually carried out under general anaesthetic. The skin and muscle of the lower eyelid is lifted, the extra fat is removed and the extra skin is trimmed and re-sutured.
What is the normal postoperative course?
This procedure can be done as a day case or it may involve a one night stay in hospital if it is done along with a face lift. Following the operation the lower eyelids will be bruised and swollen. The bruising and swelling normally settles within one to two weeks following surgery.
Most patients are discharged either the same day or the following morning from the hospital. An appointment is made for removal of sutures three to seven days following the operation. A review appointment is arranged with the surgeon a week after the operation.
Most patients are able to return to work within a fortnight of their operation. Patients are instructed with regard to application of moisturising cream and massage to help the swelling and the bruising to settle.
What are of the complications of this procedure?
Like any other operation lower blepharoplasty can have complications such as bleeding, haematoma (blood clot underneath the skin), infection, visible scar and asymmetry. Complications that are particular to lower eyelid surgery include ectropion (outward turning of the eyelid) and epiphora (watering of the eye). These are rare occurrences. A small percentage (less than 5 %) of patients may require a secondary revision procedure.
