Lower Blepharoplasty

Lower Blepharoplasty: Surgical Options for the Lower Eyelids

What is Lower Blepharoplasty?

Lower blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes or repositions excess skin and fat in the lower eyelid area. Changes in skin elasticity and fat distribution occur naturally with age, which may influence the appearance of the lower eyelids. This procedure is performed to adjust the lower eyelid area based on individual considerations.

Lower Eyelid Changes Over Time

With age, the lower eyelid area undergoes natural changes, including:

• Variations in skin elasticity that may affect the appearance of the lower eyelids
• Changes in fat distribution, which may alter the contours beneath the eyes
• Structural differences in the outer corner of the eye (lateral canthus), which may influence eyelid positioning

How Lower Blepharoplasty Eyelid Surgery is Performed by Dr Honeybrook

Dr Honeybrook performs lower blepharoplasty surgery using various surgical techniques based on individual anatomy and surgical considerations.

Transconjunctival Orbital Fat Compartment Excision/Repositioning

In this method, Dr Honeybrook makes an incision inside the lower eyelid to remove or reposition fat deposits in the lower eyelid area. This technique does not leave a visible scar on the outer surface of the eyelid.

Release of the Orbital Retaining Ligament

The orbital retaining ligament holds the lower eyelid in place. As part of the natural aging process, this ligament may change, which can affect eyelid position. Dr Honeybrook may release this ligament to adjust the position of the lower eyelid.

Lower Eyelid Skin Pinch

This technique involves removing a small amount of skin from the lower eyelid to adjust skin laxity in this area. Dr Honeybrook places the incision just below the eyelash line, where it is positioned to align with natural contours once healed.

Canthopexy to Support the Orbicularis Muscle and Lateral Canthus

The orbicularis muscle is the circular muscle that surrounds the eye, and the lateral canthus is a ligament that attaches the eye to the outer part of the orbital bone. Over time, these structures may change, affecting lower eyelid position. Dr Honeybrook performs canthopexy in many lower blepharoplasty cases to provide support to these structures.

Dr Honeybrook combines these techniques to adjust the lower eyelid area in a way that aligns with each individual’s anatomy. After the procedure, changes in the lower eyelid area will develop as healing progresses.

Considerations for Lower Blepharoplasty Surgery

Lower blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes or repositions skin and fat in the lower eyelid area. The procedure may result in:

• Adjustments to skin laxity in the lower eyelid area
• Changes in the appearance of shadows or contours beneath the eyes
• A reduction in the prominence of fat pockets in the lower eyelid
• Modifications to lower eyelid position and support
• Variations in the shape and tilt of the eye, depending on individual anatomy
• Differences in the symmetry of the lower eyelids based on surgical technique and healing factors

Who May Consider Lower Eyelid Surgery?

Lower blepharoplasty eyelid surgery may be an option for individuals who have fullness in the lower eyelid area, lower eyelid skin laxity, or variations in the contours of the lower eyelids. Some individuals with differences in lower eyelid positioning or lower eyelid malposition which is pulling down of the outer corner of the eyes may also consider this procedure.

To determine whether lower blepharoplasty is a suitable option, it is best to schedule a consultation with Dr Honeybrook.

Fat Transfer to the Lower Eyelids and Midface

In some instances, individuals may have a hollowed appearance or variations in the contours at the level of the lower orbital rim. Some may also experience changes in cheek volume over time. In these cases, autologous fat transfer may be an option to adjust volume in the lower eyelid area.

By combining fat grafting with lower blepharoplasty surgery, Dr Honeybrook can transfer fat to the tear trough, orbital rim, and midface. This procedure is performed to adjust volume in these areas based on individual anatomy. Autologous fat transfer involves harvesting fat from the individual’s own body, usually from the abdomen or thighs, and then injecting it into the target areas around the eyes.

One of the considerations of using fat transfer in combination with lower blepharoplasty surgery is that it uses the individual’s own tissue. Unlike synthetic fillers, which may require periodic treatments, autologous fat transfer utilises the individual’s own fat cells, which integrate with surrounding tissues over time.

Another consideration of this combination procedure is that the approach may vary depending on individual anatomy and surgical factors. Dr Honeybrook assesses each individual to determine an appropriate volume of fat transfer, taking into account facial structure, facial volume, and skin tone.

If you are considering surgical options for the lower eyelid area, Dr Honeybrook can discuss whether fat transfer may be suitable during a consultation.

Recovery After Lower Blepharoplasty Eyelid Surgery

The early healing process may take approximately two to three weeks, and during this time, individuals may experience swelling and bruising.

It’s important to allow your body adequate time to heal, as recovery varies between individuals. Dr Honeybrook will provide detailed post-operative care instructions, which may include limiting physical activity, avoiding certain foods or medications, and caring for the incisions.

After the acute healing process, individuals may notice changes in the lower eyelid area over the following weeks as swelling subsides. The area may appear smoother, with changes in contour developing over the following months.

The results of lower blepharoplasty vary between individuals, and while effects are generally long-lasting, natural aging and other factors can influence outcomes over time.