Lower Blepharoplasty (eye bag surgery)

What is Lower Blepharoplasty?

Lower blepharoplasty is a type of lower eyelid surgery that aims to improve the appearance of under-eye bags and lower eyelid contour. Depending on your anatomy, the procedure may involve lower eyelid fat removal, fat repositioning, and/or tightening of skin and supporting structures.

This procedure is commonly chosen by people who feel they look tired or older due to under-eye puffiness—even when they are well-rested. A consultation helps determine whether the cause is fat prominence, skin laxity, hollowing, or a combination.

How Does Eye Bag Surgery Work?

Lower eyelid anatomy differs between individuals. At HE Clinic, your surgeon will assess:

• Under-eye fat prominence (eye bags)
• Skin laxity and fine wrinkles
• Tear trough hollowing
• Eyelid tone and support (important for safety and symmetry)

Based on your assessment, the surgeon may recommend one of these approaches:

1. Transconjunctival approach (inside the eyelid)

An incision is made on the inside of the lower eyelid. This method is often used when the primary concern is under-eye fat prominence and there is minimal extra skin. Because the incision is inside, there is no external scar.

2. Subciliary approach (just under the lash line)

An incision is placed just below the lower lash line. This approach may be considered when there is skin laxity or when tightening/support work is required. Scars are typically placed in natural lines and tend to fade over time, but scar appearance varies.

Your doctor will discuss which technique is most appropriate for you and why.

Who May Benefit From Lower Eyelid Surgery?

You may be a good candidate for eyelid rejuvenation surgery if you:

• Have noticeable under-eye bags or puffiness
• Does your under-eye area make you look tired or older
• Have under-eye fullness with or without mild skin laxity
• Are generally healthy and have realistic expectations

Who may need extra caution?

A careful medical assessment is especially important if you have:

• Significant dry eye symptoms
• Eyelid laxity, previous eyelid surgery, or eye conditions that affect healing
• Bleeding risks or medications that affect clotting
• Uncontrolled medical conditions

Not everyone needs surgery. Your doctor may recommend non-surgical options if appropriate.

What to Expect: Procedure Overview

Your treatment plan is personalised, but a typical pathway includes:

1. Consultation & assessment
   Review of concerns, medical history, eye health, and anatomy. Photos may be taken for planning.
2. Anaesthesia planning
   Lower blepharoplasty may be performed with local anaesthesia (with or without sedation) depending on the plan and patient needs.
3. Surgery
   The surgeon performs the planned approach (transconjunctival or subciliary). This may include lower eyelid fat removal and/or repositioning, as well as tightening of supporting tissues when needed.
4. Recovery & follow-up
   You’ll receive aftercare instructions and a follow-up plan to monitor healing.

Recovery and Aftercare

Most patients experience temporary swelling, bruising, and tightness after lower eyelid surgery. These typically improve gradually, but timelines vary.

General aftercare guidance may include:

• Cold compresses for the first day(s) as advised
• Keeping your head elevated when resting
• Avoiding strenuous exercise for a short period
• Avoiding eye makeup and contact lenses until your doctor advises
• Attending follow-up appointments to ensure healing is on track

Contact the clinic promptly if you experience severe or worsening pain, significant bleeding, fever, sudden vision changes, or any concerning symptoms.