Signs of aging can affect the delicate eye area long before you are ready for them. The skin under your eyes may start to droop, and you may notice puffy eye bags that make you look tired. A blepharoplasty or lower eyelid lift can restore a tighter, smoother under-eye area. This procedure helps you look brighter and more alert.
How Can I Tighten My Lower Eyelids?
While skincare products can improve the appearance of minor under-eye concerns, sagging or drooping skin and eye bags can only be treated surgically. An eyelid lift or blepharoplasty tightens the eyelids and smooths under-eye bags. You can have blepharoplasty on your lower eyelids, upper eyelids, or both
Dr. Stein performs lower eyelid lifts to provide a smoother, tighter under-eye area that helps you look younger and more alert. People may even notice that you look less tired. Many people do not need to apply as much under-eye makeup to feel confident about their appearance.
How Does an Eyelid Lift or Blepharoplasty Work?
A lower eyelid lift is performed with local anesthesia or twilight sedation. You will not feel any discomfort during the procedure, which usually lasts less than an hour. The procedure will last longer if you also have an upper eyelid lift at the same time. The incision is often hidden inside the eyelid. Dr. Stein will remove or reposition the fat pads under the eyes. He will also tighten drooping skin and muscles for a firmer, more youthful appearance.
What is Recovery Like After Blepharoplasty?
You can expect some swelling and discomfort for the first few days after your procedure. Discomfort is managed with pain medication and cold compresses. Limit your activities, especially any type of lifting. Most people can return to work within two weeks. If you wear contacts, you should be aware that you cannot wear them for two weeks after the procedure. After follow-up examinations, Dr. Stein will clear you to return to strenuous activities.
What Results Will I See After a Lower Eyelid Lift?
You will start to see your blepharoplasty results as the swelling fades during the first week or two. You will notice that your lower eyelids look tighter and more lifted and that your eye bags have been smoothed away. This procedure gives the overall appearance of brighter, more youthful eyes. The results of blepharoplasty usually last ten to fifteen years.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Lower Eyelid Lift?
Good candidates for a lower blepharoplasty are healthy and have reasonable expectations. Candidates usually want to tighten the lower eyelids and reduce puffiness. For even better results, an eyelid lift can be combined with another procedure, like a facelift or brow lift. You should not have blepharoplasty if you are pregnant or have certain health problems.
Take the Next Step
Are you interested in a lower eyelid lift? If you would like to schedule an in-person consultation, please fill out the form on this page or call (919) 261-7099, and one of our knowledgeable medical staff members at Stein Plastic Surgery will reach out to you promptly.
Stein Plastic Surgery is located in the Raleigh, Durham, and Southeast NC areas serving patients.