Introduction
Lower blepharoplasty encompasses various surgical techniques aimed at improving the appearance of the lower eyelids. Traditionally, this procedure was predominantly reductive, involving the removal of skin and/or fat to address issues such as lower eyelid wrinkles, excess skin, and fat bulges. Although skin and fat excision remain part of modern lower blepharoplasty, current trends emphasize a tissue-preserving approach. This contemporary philosophy includes techniques like orbital and sub-orbicularis fat repositioning and fat transfer, which help restore the apparent volume loss that accompanies facial aging.
In the early 2000s, hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers emerged as an off-label method for volumizing the lower eyelid and infra-orbital area. Additionally, laser energy and light-based treatments have been introduced, offering non-surgical lower blepharoplasty options or serving as non-surgical adjuncts to traditional incisional blepharoplasty.
Who is a good candidate for lower blepharoplasty procedure?
A good candidate for lower blepharoplasty is typically someone who exhibits signs of aging around the lower eyelids, such as wrinkles, excess skin, and puffiness caused by fat bulges. Ideal candidates are in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure.
Specific criteria for a good candidate include:
- Age and Skin Condition: Individuals, usually over the age of 35, with noticeable skin redundancy, fine lines, and wrinkles around the lower eyelids. Younger patients may also be candidates if they have hereditary issues such as under-eye bags or dark circles.
- Health Status: Candidates should be in good general health, without any serious eye conditions or medical issues that could complicate surgery or recovery. Conditions like uncontrolled hypertension, thyroid problems, or diabetes need careful evaluation.
- Eye Health: Patients should not have significant dry eye syndrome, severe allergies, or other ocular surface diseases. A comprehensive ophthalmic evaluation ensures there are no underlying conditions that might interfere with the surgery or healing process.
- Realistic Expectations: Understanding the potential outcomes and limitations of lower blepharoplasty is crucial. Candidates should have a clear and realistic expectation of what the surgery can achieve, focusing on improvement rather than perfection.
- Non-Smoking: Non-smokers, or those willing to quit before and after the procedure, are preferred candidates as smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of complications.
- Emotional Stability: Candidates should be emotionally stable and seeking the procedure for themselves, not under pressure from others.
- Anatomical Considerations: The patient should have suitable anatomy for the procedure. This includes evaluating the degree of lower eyelid laxity, the condition of the canthal tendons, and the presence of conditions such as lagophthalmos or a negative vector globe-maxilla relationship.
Steps for Booking a Consultation with Mr. Shailesh Vadodaria at MACS Clinic
Contact the Clinic:
- Phone: Call the clinic at 020 7078 4378.
- WhatsApp: Message the clinic at 07792 648 726.
- Email: Send an email to enquiries@macsclinic.co.uk.
- Contact Form: Fill out your details on the contact form.
MACS clinic staff will respond to your inquiry and offer you a complimentary video or face-to-face consultation with Mr. Shailesh Vadodaria, the senior consultant plastic surgeon.
You will be provided with a detailed information factsheet about lower eyelid correction procedure to give you better insight into what to expect.
Consultation with Mr. Vadodaria:
During your consultation, Mr. Vadodaria will thoroughly explain all aspects of the lower eyelid correction procedure, including potential risks, complications, and post-operative care.
He will also present representative before and after photos/videos of previous eyelid correction patients from his practice.
Procedure Estimate:
After the consultation, the MACS Clinic team will send you a procedure estimate to help you plan accordingly.
Correction of Lower Eyelid (Blepharoplasty) procedure ranges from £4000 to £5000. If you wish to have correction of both upper and lower eyelids (Blepharoplasty), the procedure ranges from £5500 to £6500. These prices may vary based on factors such as the type of anaesthetics used and your choice of clinic or hospital. Following your consultation with Mr. Vadodaria, a final cost estimate will be provided to you.
Which technique Mr. Shailesh Vadodaria uses to perform the Correction of Lower Eyelid?
- Subcilliary approach (external)
For the lower eyelid, an incision is made just below the eyelash line. This incision may be extended slightly into the natural lines that extend to the corner of the eye.
The excess skin and fat are carefully removed through the incision to reduce puffiness and wrinkles, creating a smoother and firmer lower eyelid contour.
To provide additional support to the lower eyelids, a technique called lateral canthopexy is employed. This involves anchoring the lower eyelid to the outer border of the orbital wall, enhancing the stability and positioning of the eyelid.
Finally, the incisions are closed using dissolvable stitches, which minimize the need for suture removal.
2. Subconjunctival approach (hidden- internal )
The subconjunctival approach to lower blepharoplasty is a surgical technique used to remove or reposition fat from the lower eyelid to address under-eye bags, puffiness, and a tired appearance. Unlike the traditional external incision method, this approach involves accessing the fat through the inner lining of the lower eyelid, known as the conjunctiva, leaving no visible external scars. It is a preferred approach for young patient and the patient should have good tone of the lower eyelid muscle.
Procedure Overview
A small incision is made on the inner surface of the lower eyelid, allowing the surgeon to access the fat pads without cutting the external skin. Mr Vadodaria either removes or repositions the protruding fat responsible for the under-eye puffiness. Because the incision is made on the inside of the eyelid, the procedure leaves no visible scars on the outer skin. The incision may be closed with dissolvable stitches or may heal on its own without the need for sutures.
What to Expect on the Day of Your Lower Eyelid Correction Operation at MACS Clinic
- Consent Process:
Upon arrival at MACS clinic, you will need to complete the consent process. This ensures that you fully understand the treatment, its potential risks, and the expected outcomes.
- Pregnancy Test:
In compliance with National Government Law, a pregnancy test will be conducted to ensure patient safety.
- Anesthesia:
Lower eyelid reduction is typically performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep throughout the surgery.
- Surgery Duration:
The surgery generally takes approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity and extent of the corrections required.
- Post-Procedure Care:
After the surgery, you will be provided with prescriptions for painkillers and antibiotics in either tablet or ointment form to manage any discomfort and prevent infection.
You will also receive a comprehensive post-operative information leaflet. This guide will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your eyes, what to expect during recovery, and signs of any potential complications to watch for.
- Recovery Guidance:
Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress. The MACS Clinic team will be available to address any concerns or questions you may have during your recovery period.
Post-Operative Care After Lower Eyelid Correction at MACS Clinic
- Medications:
- Antibiotics: Take the prescribed antibiotics as directed to prevent infection.
- Analgesics (Painkillers): Use painkillers as instructed to manage any discomfort.
- Antibiotic Ointment: Apply the antibiotic ointment to the incision sites as per Mr. Shailesh Vadodaria’s instructions.
- Head Elevation:
Keep your head elevated for a few days post-procedure to help reduce swelling. This can be achieved by using extra pillows when lying down or sleeping.
- Cold Compression:
Apply cold compresses to the treated area to minimize swelling and discomfort. Be sure to follow the recommended schedule for cold compress application.
4. Activity Restrictions:
Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending over for at least a week after the surgery. This helps in reducing the risk of increased swelling or bleeding.
5. Follow-Up Appointments:
1 Week Post-Procedure: A follow-up appointment will be scheduled with Mr. Shailesh Vadodaria to assess your initial healing and address any concerns.
6 Weeks Post-Procedure: Another follow-up appointment will be scheduled to evaluate your progress and ensure proper recovery.
6. Additional Tips:
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: These can impair the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
Sun Protection: Protect your eyes from direct sunlight and avoid excessive sun exposure. Wearing sunglasses can help shield the treated area.
Hygiene: Keep the incision sites clean
By adhering to these post-operative care guidelines, you can have a smooth recovery following your lower eyelid correction at MACS Clinic. If you have any questions or experience any unusual symptoms, contact us immediately for further guidance.
What are the risks of the Lower Eyelid Correction at MACS Clinic?
Although rare, potential risks and complications associated with the Lower Blepharoplasty procedure (Correction of Lower Eyelid) include scarring, swelling, bruising, discolouration, undercorrection, overcorrection, asymmetry, ectropion, chemosis, dry eye, and even blindness (not limited to the listed complications). If a revision is required, Mr. Vadodaria waives his surgeon’s fee, although the theatre cost remains payable. The revision rate for this procedure is less than 5% at MACS Clinic.
For more information about Correction of Upper/Lower Eyelid visit: https://medicalartsforcosmeticsurgery.com/eyelid-reduction-blepharoplasty/ or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=igoP1q_NTvY&list=PL_FxiihJDtcn_rqT9e6eimzBiU9pEYwfG or contact MACS Clinic at 020 7078 4378 or 07792 648726.
