Lower Lid Blepharoplasty (Bags Under the Eyes)

Eye bags or puffy eyes happen to almost everyone at some time in their lives, but when eye bags become a chronic problem, these under-eye bags, puffy eyes, and drooping eyelids can become more than just a temporary annoyance. This is where Dr. Sean Paul can help with lower eyelid surgery in Austin.

What causes eye bags?

There are many reasons why a person may develop under-eye bags, drooping eyelids, and other aesthetic problems of the under-eye area. Most commonly, aging eyelids start to droop and sag as muscles weaken. As we get older, the eye area can have a huge impact on how our face looks, often creating a tired, bored, or even angry expression. For some, a tired appearance can be disheartening and even misleading, thus impacting one’s self-esteem. As a solution to this common problem, Dr. Paul offers those in Austin, New Braunfels, Westlake, and Lakeway a popular procedure known as lower blepharoplasty, or lower eyelid surgery.

Close up of woman's green eye

What is the purpose of lower eyelid surgery?

The purpose of lower eyelid surgery, or eye bag treatment in Austin, is to reposition facial fat and sometimes remove excess skin from the lower eyelid to produce a more rested and youthful expression. Lower blepharoplasty is primarily used to address under-eye bags and pockets of fat beneath the eye, which may be affecting one’s expression and apparent demeanor.

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Benefits of Lower Eyelid Surgery 

  • Reduces under-eye bags and dark circles
  • Removes fatty buildups, loose and excess skin
  • Smoothes the lower eyelid of lines and wrinkles
  • Improves confidence and increases self esteem
  • Leaves you looking more youthful and refreshed
  • Improves the shape and appearance of the eyes
  • No visible scarring or enduring signs of cosmetic manipulation

About the procedure

Typically, the anesthesia used will be tailored to the patient’s comfort level and the type of procedure(s) being performed. If only blepharoplasty is being performed, local anesthesia with oral sedation can be an excellent option in our office, however if combined with other procedures (or if the patient prefers), general anesthesia can be used at one of our outpatient surgical centers around the greater Austin area. Eyelid surgery takes about one to two hours on average when performed as a stand-alone procedure for both eyes.

Lower blepharoplasty is performed through small incisions hidden through the backside of the eyelid, also called a transconjunctival approach. Specifically, this area is underneath the lower lashes, within the moist lining tissue on the inside of the eyelid.

The main goal of lower blepharoplasty is to remove or reposition excess fat and smooth the area beneath the eyes to achieve a rested, refreshed, and youthful appearance.

Major complications with a lower blepharoplasty surgery are very rare and the procedure is considered very safe. Dr. Paul is always meticulous with his approach, avoiding the removal of too much skin and fat for a very natural appearance and beautiful results.

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Downtime and recovery

Patients usually have a short recovery time after lower eyelid surgery in Austin. Although bruising and swelling is usually the worst on the day after surgery, they quickly begin to disappear. During the first 48 hours, the use of cool compresses can greatly reduce bruising and swelling around the eyes and face. 

Light activity, such as walking, will also help speed healing. Thin bandages are usually placed over the incision sites and removed in several days, while the stitches can remain in the skin for about a week. Sometimes self-absorbing stitches are used that do not require removal. Most people return to normal activities after 7 to 10 days after their lower blepharoplasty in Austin. By two weeks out, the majority of bruising and swelling will have resolved.

Am I a good candidate for eye bag surgery?

Candidates for eye bag and lower eyelid surgery in Austin are healthy adults with excess skin, drooping skin, or puffy bags of fatty tissue around the eyes. Most patients are interested in a lower blepharoplasty for cosmetic reasons. In other instances, aging may lead to malposition of the lower eyelid, which can lead to drying of the eyes. Patients should have realistic expectations about the results of the procedure and be aware of its limitations. A lower eyelid correction is a relatively minor procedure but requires an oculoplastic surgeon who possesses a great deal of experience and skill. Dr. Sean Paul is an expert in the different operating techniques and knows how to achieve the most natural results.

Want to discuss this more? Schedule a consult with Dr. Paul.

Alternatives and additional options

Other treatments may also need to be considered. If eye bags are accompanied by sagging of the eyebrows, then a forehead lift may be recommended. Smoothing of the crow’s feet may be accomplished with Botox, Dysport, or chemical peel resurfacing procedures. For dark circles under the eyes, alternatives to surgery include dermal fillers.

Juvederm and Restylane are two great options we use at Austin Face & Body to improve the appearance of sunken eyes or dark circles, as well as hollowing of the cheeks. These are fillers that achieve excellent results. If you have any questions about these treatments, our knowledgeable team will be happy to provide further information about these alternative or additional procedures.

Woman looking down with mouth slightly open

Providers who perform Lower Eyelid Surgery at Austin Face & Body

What happens during the consultation?

During your initial consultation, Dr. Paul will ask you to discuss your concerns about your eyes. He will also carefully evaluate your medical history, noting any prior history of eyelid surgery, dry eyes, or the use of blood thinners. He will also pay special attention to the surrounding anatomic structures such as the upper eyelids, cheeks, as well as the strength of the lower eyelid muscles.

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When skin loses its elasticity and fat starts to press against the thinning skin of the lower eyelids, it may be a good time to consider a lower eyelid surgery consultation with Dr. Sean Paul. As a high-end plastic surgeon in Austin, Dr. Paul specializes in the eyelids and the structures surrounding the eye. He has also been hailed as an innovator in the aesthetics of the lower eyelids. To learn more or schedule an appointment, please call 512-642-5050 or contact us online.

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