Lower Blepharoplasty in Raleigh
What Is Lower Blepharoplasty?
Notice the puffiness of each lower eyelid. This is due to orbital fat protruding and is a common concern for many patients. While some patients are born with puffy lower eyelids, this is a problem that more commonly develops over time. This patient underwent transconjunctival lower blepharoplasty (scarless approach through the inside of the eyelid) to address the puffiness. After surgery, the puffy areas are no longer visible and the patient has a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
A form of lower eyelid surgery, lower blepharoplasty improves puffiness of the lower eyelid leading to a smoother and more youthful contour from the lower eyelid to the cheek.
The puffiness is due to prominence of orbital fat showing through the lower eyelids and this can significantly impact one's appearance. This puffiness is commonly referred to as eye bags. Some people are born with noticeably puffy lower lids. More commonly, this condition develops with age as tissues in the eyelid become loose, allowing the fat to shift forward. These changes can make a person look tired, even if they are well rested.
As a specialized and delicate cosmetic surgery, lower blepharoplasty with Dr. Mettu of Raleigh Eye and Face can address eye bags and relative hollows. Additionally, lower blepharoplasty can be combined with our other procedures when needed, and this can allow patients to benefit from an even broader rejuvenation of the eyelids and surrounding areas.
Is Lower Blepharoplasty Right for Me?
Some patients with hollows may be candidates for tear trough filler injections. However, others will not get optimal results with filler, and thus, lower blepharoplasty is a better option. With a lower blepharoplasty, fat in the lower eyelids can be removed and sculpted through an incision on the inside surface of the eyelid. This is called the transconjunctival approach. While this is a technically more advanced procedure, in the hands of expert eyelid surgeon Dr. Mettu, the transconjunctival approach is the safest technique and yields the most natural result by preserving the shape of the eye and avoiding any visible scars.
Dr. Mettu performs a careful examination to determine the best treatment plan for each patient during the consultation. The goal of surgery is to obtain a natural look that leaves one appearing youthful and well-rested.
Watch Below to See Content Creator Jas Anahis Share Her Lower Blepharoplasty Experience with Dr. Mettu
As Featured in Business Insider
Oculofacial plastic surgeon Pradeep Mettu, MD — along with several of his patients — was featured in Business Insider for expertise in lower blepharoplasty in Raleigh, NC. Patients travel from across the U.S. and internationally for his natural, long-lasting under-eye rejuvenation results. View more media coverage of Dr. Pradeep Mettu, MD and Raleigh Eye and Face Plastic Surgery to explore other featured publications.
Lower Blepharoplasty FAQs — Raleigh Eye and Face
What Is the Procedure Like?
Anesthesia: Lower blepharoplasty in Raleigh, NC is performed with general anesthesia at the outpatient surgery center. This ensures patients do not experience pain or anxiety during the procedure, which are common challenges when using other forms of anesthesia. Additionally, the skilled anesthesia team provides dedicated monitoring of each patient which allows Dr. Pradeep Mettu to focus solely on the surgery and get the best possible results for his patients.
Duration: The surgery itself takes less than one hour on average. However, if a combined procedure is planned (such as an upper blepharoplasty as well), the duration will be longer. Additionally, on surgery day, there is associated time for preparation and recovery in the pre op and post op areas respectively.
Outpatient: Once the surgery is complete, patients can return home the same day. However, it is necessary to have a guest accompany and drive each patient so we recommend planning ahead for this part. All of the planning and logistical considerations are reviewed with each patient at the consultation.
How Long Is the Recovery?
Though Dr. Mettu uses is precise and delicate, lower eyelid surgery is still a full surgical procedure. That means there will be a recovery period with downtime. However, the downtime is well worth it and is part of a long-term investment. Dr. Mettu’s patients are highly satisfied with this procedure. Some key points of recovery include:
- Downtime: Average downtime from exercise is 10 days. During this time, limiting strenuous activities and following post op instructions are crucial.
- Aftercare: Dr. Mettu provides each patient with a comprehensive overview of post-procedure care, reviewed during the consultation and again at a pre-op visit 1–2 weeks before surgery. Following these instructions ensures an excellent outcome patients will enjoy for years.
- Resuming a Routine: After the initial downtime, patients can gradually return to their usual routines and activities, with most restrictions lifted by day 11. The full list of do’s and don’ts will be reviewed during the pre-op visit, and updated guidance provided at the first post-op visit.
- Follow-up: Dr. Mettu sees every patient post-operatively to monitor healing, answer questions, and adjust recovery plans until full healing is achieved.
When Can I See Lower Eyelid Surgery Results?
One of the biggest questions patients have is, "When can I see my results?" With lower blepharoplasty in Raleigh, patients can expect a relatively quick timeline from the procedure to visible results. While the structural changes are complete at the end of surgery, patients should expect about two weeks for most swelling and bruising to resolve. Many notice reduced under-eye bags even sooner. Continued improvement happens as swelling and bruising fade over the following weeks.
In summary:
- Initial results: within 2–4 weeks on average
- Near final results: approximately 6–12 weeks on average
Can I Combine Procedures?
Yes, patients often combine lower eyelid surgery with additional cosmetic procedures. Some are performed on the same day, while others are scheduled separately.
Popular combinations include:
Book Your Consultation
Lower blepharoplasty can have a large impact in a patient's life and serve as a major confidence boost. Take the first step by booking your consultation with Dr. Mettu for lower blepharoplasty in Raleigh.
Watch a video by Dr. Mettu’s patient and content creator Jas Anahis on Lower Blepharoplasty recovery.
