An eyelid lift, or blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that is carried out in order to address aesthetic and/or functional issues in the eyelids. It can also be combined with certain other procedures for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

There are two basic kinds of blepharoplasty: upper blepharoplasty and lower blepharoplasty. The former involves making an incision in the upper eyelid to adjust the fat, skin, and muscle tissue for a smoother and tighter eyelid.

In a lower-eyelid lift, the incisions are made either right below the lash line or on the inside of the eyelid. The inner-lid incision is called the transconjunctival approach. This particular technique makes it possible for the Dr. Espinosa to access the eyelid without creating visible incisions. It is also the preferred method for those who want to have fat added or removed.

The Purpose of Lower-Eyelid Lifts

Excess skin and drooping muscle tissue in the eyelids can result in the eyelids becoming too heavy, which leads to droopiness. Excess fat creates a puffy look. These issues cause people to have an aged or sleepy appearance.

When this happens to the lower eyelids, we remove the excess skin, tighten sagging muscle tissue, and reposition or remove fat through lower blepharoplasty.

Preparation

Prior to a lower-eyelid lift, Dr. Espinosa will carry out a thorough examination to rule out potential risks. This will take place during a consultation at our office. As part of this consultation, Dr. Espinosa will go through your medical history and note pre-existing medical conditions and medications you are currently taking.

You will be provided with instructions from Dr. Espinosa for lower-eyelid-lift preparation, and these must be followed carefully. Prescriptions will be given for painkillers, gauze, artificial tears, gel packs, and other items necessary to aid proper recovery.

The Recovery Process

The recovery time needed for a lower blepharoplasty isn’t too long. You may notice a mild amount of bruising and swelling, which will subside in a matter of days. During the first few days, you will be required to use cool compresses to help reduce the swelling and bruising.

The bandages placed over the incisions will be removed in a few days, and the stitches will be removed in a few weeks. However, if absorbable stitches are used, you will not need to return to the clinic to have them removed.

You can engage in some light activity while you heal, and this can actually speed up the healing process. However, intense activities like sports and heavy exercise must be avoided for a few weeks.

As part of healing, it will be important to wear sunglasses, sunscreen, and other forms of sun protection. Your tissues will be weakened at this time, so they will be very vulnerable. The sunglasses will also help to keep out dust, wind, and pollution.

Contact Us to Learn More

Would you like to learn more about addressing the sagging and puffiness in your lower eyelids? The lower-eyelid lift may be perfect for you, but there’s only one way to find out for sure: arranging a consultation with Dr. Nashielli Espinosa, an experienced reconstructive plastic surgeon. Contact us today for your consultation.