A lower lid blepharoplasty is a term that refer to different surgical approaches to help improve the appearance of your lower eyelid. Historically, this meant that the surgery removed fat or excess skin. These surgeries were designed to help reduce wrinkles and bulges in the lower eyelid resulting from fat deposits.
To prolong a youthful appearance and display a more energetic look, Renu Artful Medicine offers patients an array of surgical and non-surgical eye rejuvenation procedures. One of the most transformative surgeries is blepharoplasty, commonly called eyelid lift surgery, performed by Dr. Philip Schoenfeld of the Washington, D.C. suburb, Chevy Chase, MD.
Newer surgical approaches for lower eyelid surgery can also include fat repositioning or fat transfer to help reduce the signs of aging that occur in the lower eyelid. Now, other approaches, such as dermal fillers, laser treatments, chemical peels, and light treatments, have been added as treatment options and have increased the pool of options available to patients to get the appearance they want.
If you are looking to have an under-eye surgery, it is important that you understand the steps and surgical procedure. This allows patients to become active participants in deciding the treatment options they want to achieve results. Your doctor will conduct an initial consultation. During this consultation, they’ll get a better understanding of your medical history, family history, and any potential complications with your case. Additionally, a doctor can evaluate your current condition to offer potential solutions.
Once the doctor has conducted their physical examination and ruled out any issues in your history, they’ll work with you to discuss which surgical options are available. It is important that each patient has an idea of what to expect from their procedure, and doctors work to ensure that patients don’t have unrealistic expectations.
There are a few reasons that individuals might not be a candidate for a lower lid blepharoplasty. These include:
If you aren’t a candidate for a surgical approach, other treatments may be suited to your needs.
If you opt for a surgical approach, the date of your operation will be scheduled. Dr. Schoenfeld will conduct two basic surgical approaches for a lower blepharoplasty. The first is a transconjunctival approach. This technique is when doctors make an incision in the backside of your lower eyelid, next to your eyeball. This approach is a great option for patients who don’t have a lot of excess lower eyelid skin but have more eyelid fat.
The second approach is called the skin approach. This surgical technique is when a doctor makes a small incision just below the eyelash line on the lower eyelid.
For both approaches, once the incision has been made, the doctor can utilize a variety of different approaches, including adding or removing fat deposits, removing excess skin, removing excess muscle, and most importantly, determining the need to tighten the lower eyelid with either a canthopexy or canthoplasty. The last step will help protect the lower eyelid from post operative lower eyelid malposition or ectropion.
One of the biggest concerns following your surgery is infection and swelling. It is important to keep the incision site clean and watch for early signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, heat at the site of the incision, or excessive pain. You will likely have an antibiotic cream or eyedrops to help fight off potential infection.
Additionally, controlling the swelling can help to aid in your recovery. During the first two days following your surgery, you’ll want to use cold compresses. These can help reduce swelling and also reduce some of the pain sensations. After two days, you can switch to warm compresses to help with blood flow to the surgical site.
Your doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment about a week after your surgery to check your healing progress.
Depending on the goals of your surgery, you’re likely to have very different results from other patients. However, patients can generally expect to see a reduction in sagging or bagginess underneath their eyes, a smoothing of the skin, and frequently noticeably younger-looking skin. Many patients also report an immediate improvement in their confidence and self-esteem.
There are several factors that influence the cost of any procedure. One of the most important factors is your location. However, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons currently estimates that the lower blepharoplasty cost is just over $4,500. This does not include some of the additional costs associated with a procedure, such as the facility or surgical center costs, anesthesia, prescriptions, and tests. Of course, if you’re considering a lower lid surgery, contact Renu by Dr. Schoenfeld to schedule your consultation. Our caring staff can evaluate your situation and get an accurate estimate that fits your needs.
Philip S. Schoenfeld, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Dr. Schoenfeld, the founder and Medical Director of Renu facial plastics of Chevy Chase, MD, is double board certified in Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. The doctor has been practicing facial plastic and reconstructive surgery for nearly two decades. An Army veteran, Dr. Schoenfeld completed his residency training at the internationally known Walter Reed Army Medical Center.
Aside from his duties as a cosmetic surgeon, the doctor works with trauma patients, has involvement in philanthropic work, and teaches upcoming practitioners about the art of facial plastics. Schedule a personalized visit with him today by calling 301-652-RENU (7368), or filling out his Patient Contact Form.
As a highly experienced double board certified plastic surgeon, I have dedicated my career to providing my patients with the best possible outcomes. I’ve specialized in facial plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgery in Washington DC and Maryland since 1998. My training and experience have given me a deep understanding of the anatomy of the face and body, and I use this knowledge to develop customized treatment plans for each of my patients.
I am committed to staying up to date with the latest advances in plastic surgery, and I use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to deliver the best results. I take a personalized approach to care, taking the time to understand each patient’s individual needs and goals.
When you choose me as your plastic surgeon, you can trust that you will receive the highest quality care and attention. I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve their desired results, and I will work with you every step of the way to ensure your complete satisfaction.
Here is what separates Dr. Schoenfeld from other surgeons in the DMV area:
