Lower Eyelid Surgery : Boston plastic surgeon, Dr. Del Vecchio

Lower eyelid Blepharoplasty refers to eyelid surgery and is designed to remove the excess fat, along with skin when indicated, from the lower eyelids. It is the second most common aesthetic procedure performed by plastic surgeons.

What are the goals of lower eyelid plastic surgery?
A properly performed lower eyelid blepharoplasty procedure will brighten the face and restore a more youthful appearance.

How is eyelid surgery performed?
Eyelid surgery is usually performed using local anesthesia and light intravenous sedation. It is commonly done in a doctor s office, outpatient surgical center. The procedure is most often performed on an outpatient basis.

Are there scars from eyelid plastic surgery?
In lower eyelid blepharoplasty, the incisions made on the inside of the eyelid, and will therefore result in an invisible scar.

The blepharoplasty procedure will not eradicate the wrinkles around the eyes (crow s feet) nor will it elevate droopy eyebrow. There are other procedures designed for these purposes. Dark circles under the eyes may improve a bit if this is related to large bags.

The best candidates for lower eyelid blepharoplasty are those who are healthy, and who have localized bulges of fat in the lower eyelid area. Some medical conditions may increase the risk of blepharoplasty surgery such as thyroid disease, high blood pressure, and patients who do not make sufficient tears to keep their eyes well lubricated.

Fortunately, when performed by a competent plastic surgeon, complications are infrequent and minor. All patients will experience some bruising and swelling for a few days after the surgery. Some may have temporary blurring of their vision, usually due to the ointments applied to the incisions post operatively. The theoretical complications of any surgical procedure, such as bleeding, infection, wound disruption and heavy scarring are also possible, but rare.