Under Eye Surgery: What is the Best Cosmetic Procedure for Under Eye Bags?

Under-eye bags can make you look tired, older or even unwell, which is why so many people seek solutions to get rid of them. While lifestyle changes or skincare products may offer some improvement, cosmetic surgery remains the most effective option for a long-term solution. Among the various treatments, blepharoplasty stands out as a top choice. Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgery that removes excess skin or fat from the eyelids. In this blog, we will explore the best cosmetic surgeries for under-eye bags, focusing on blepharoplasty and comparing it with other options to help you make an informed decision.

What Causes Under Eye Bags?

Before exploring the surgical solutions, it’s essential to understand what causes under-eye bags. While lack of sleep and dehydration are common culprits, the real cause often lies deeper in your facial structure and skin.

Under-eye bags typically form because of aging, where the tissues and muscles supporting the eyelids weaken. Fat deposits that used to support the eyes can shift downward, creating that puffy or swollen look beneath the eyes. Genetics can also play a role, and lifestyle factors like sun exposure or smoking may quicken the process.

While some creams and non-surgical options exist to minimise these effects, cosmetic surgery to remove persistent under-eye bags is often the only way to fully resolve them.

Overview of Cosmetic Surgeries for Under Eye Bags

When it comes to cosmetic surgery for under-eye bags, there are several effective options. The right choice depends on the severity of your condition, your goals and how long you’re willing to invest in recovery.

Lower Eyelid Surgery (Lower Blepharoplasty)

Lower blepharoplasty is the most well-known surgery for under-eye bags and lower eyelids. This procedure involves making a small incision along the lower lash line, removing or redistributing fat deposits, and tightening the skin. It provides long-lasting results and is considered one of the most effective surgeries for reducing the appearance of under-eye bags.

Fat Transfer

Fat transfer, or fat grafting, is another cosmetic option. In this procedure, fat is harvested from another part of your body, purified and then injected into the under-eye area. This technique helps restore lost volume, making it a suitable option for people with sunken eyes alongside puffiness.

Fillers

For patients who prefer non-invasive options, fillers can be used to add volume under the eyes and reduce the appearance of bags. While not as permanent as surgery, fillers can offer good results for mild to moderate under-eye bags by smoothing out hollows and restoring a more youthful look. However, results are temporary and typically last between 6 to 12 months, requiring repeat treatments to maintain the effect.

If you’re interested in learning more about non-surgical facial treatments, Linia Cosmetics offers a range of alternatives.

What is Blepharoplasty?

When it comes to tackling under-eye bags, lower blepharoplasty is the gold standard. This procedure is designed specifically to target the fat deposits and sagging skin beneath the eyes.

The Procedure:

In a lower blepharoplasty, a surgeon makes an incision just below the lower lash line or inside the lower eyelid (a technique known as transconjunctival blepharoplasty). Through this incision, the surgeon removes or redistributes excess fat, tightens the muscles and tissues and removes excess skin. After the incision is closed, the under-eye area appears smoother and more youthful.

Recovery and Results:

Recovery from blepharoplasty typically takes about 7-10 days, with mild swelling or bruising in the initial stages. Applying cold packs can help reduce swelling and should be part of the aftercare routine. Patients usually notice full results after 2-3 weeks, and these results can last for years. In fact, most patients won’t need another procedure for a decade or longer.

Why Choose Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is preferred for its precision and lasting results. Unlike non-surgical options, which may require ongoing treatments, this surgery offers a more permanent solution to under-eye bags. To learn more about how blepharoplasty can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, visit our Blepharoplasty Services Page.

Upper Eyelid Surgery

Removing Excess Skin from Upper Eyelids

Upper eyelid surgery, also known as upper blepharoplasty, is a highly effective cosmetic surgery designed to remove excess skin from the upper eyelids. This procedure aims to enhance the appearance of the upper eyelids by eliminating the droopy or hooded look caused by excess skin and fat. During the surgery, a small incision is made in the natural fold of the eyelid, allowing the surgeon to remove the excess skin and fat. The incision is then meticulously closed with sutures or staples, ensuring that the scar remains hidden within the natural fold of the eyelid.

Upper eyelid surgery can be performed under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the patient’s preference and the surgeon’s recommendation. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, and patients can usually return home the same day.

The benefits of removing excess skin from the upper eyelids include:

• Improved Appearance: Achieve a more youthful and refreshed look by reducing the droopy or hooded appearance of the upper eyelids.
• Reduced Eye Bags and Dark Circles: Enhance the overall appearance of the eye area by addressing excess skin and fat.
• Improved Vision: In some cases, removing excess skin can improve vision by eliminating obstructions.
• Enhanced Facial Aesthetics: Upper eyelid surgery can significantly enhance the overall appearance of the face, contributing to a more youthful and vibrant look.

It’s important to note that upper eyelid surgery is a cosmetic procedure and is typically not covered by insurance unless it is deemed medically necessary to improve vision.

Preparing for Eyelid Surgery

How to Prepare for a Successful Procedure

Preparing for eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, involves several important steps to ensure a successful procedure and smooth recovery. Here are some key preparations to consider:

• Stop Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. It’s advisable to quit smoking at least two weeks before the procedure to reduce this risk.
• Avoid Certain Medications: Medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. It’s important to stop taking these medications at least two weeks before the procedure.
• Arrange for Transportation: Since you will not be able to drive yourself home after the procedure, make sure to arrange for someone to drive you.
• Prepare Your Home: Ensure your home is safe and comfortable for your recovery. Remove any tripping hazards and set up a comfortable place to rest.
• Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions: Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. Following these instructions carefully is crucial for a successful outcome.

By taking these steps, you can help ensure a successful eyelid surgery procedure and a smooth recovery.

Pros and Cons of Blepharoplasty

Before deciding on any surgery, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of blepharoplasty to see if it’s the right fit for you.

Pros:

• Long-Lasting Results: Unlike non-invasive treatments, blepharoplasty offers long-term improvements, with results lasting 10 years or more.
• Minimal Scarring: Because the incision is so small and carefully placed, scarring is typically minimal and well-hidden.
• Natural-Looking Results: The surgery doesn’t create an “overdone” look, and most people simply appear more refreshed and youthful.

Cons:

• Surgical Risks: Like any surgery, blepharoplasty comes with some risks, including infection, scarring or asymmetry. However, these are rare when performed by a skilled surgeon.
• Downtime: While recovery is generally smooth, it does require at least a week of downtime, which may be inconvenient for some.
• Cost: Blepharoplasty is a more significant investment than non-surgical treatments, but the long-lasting results often justify the cost.

Comparing Blepharoplasty with Non-Surgical Alternatives

Some patients may wonder whether non-surgical treatments can offer similar results to eyelid surgery blepharoplasty. While fillers, laser resurfacing and other treatments can help reduce the appearance of under-eye bags, they usually offer temporary results and require repeat sessions.

Fillers can plump up the under-eye area, reducing hollows but may not be effective for puffiness caused by fat deposits.

Laser Resurfacing tightens the skin but doesn’t address fat deposits as effectively as surgery.

Ultimately, blepharoplasty provides a more comprehensive solution by addressing all aspects of under-eye aging—skin laxity, fat repositioning and tissue tightening.

How to Choose the Right Procedure

Choosing the best procedure for your under-eye bags depends on several factors, including the severity of the bags, your skin type, and your desired outcome. If your under-eye bags are caused by fat deposits and loose skin in the upper and lower eyelids, surgery is often the best option. However, if you’re more concerned about hollow eyes or mild puffiness, fillers or laser treatments may be worth exploring.

It’s always best to consult with a cosmetic surgeon who can evaluate your specific needs. At Linia Cosmetic, we specialise in personalised consultations to help you find the most effective solution for your under-eye concerns. To get started, book a free phone consultation with one of our specialists today.

Conclusion

If you’re tired of trying to hide under-eye bags with makeup or non-surgical treatments, surgery to remove excess skin or fat, such as blepharoplasty, might be the best solution for you. With long-lasting results and minimal downtime, it’s a highly effective way to refresh your appearance and restore your confidence. Whether you’re dealing with severe puffiness, sagging skin or a hollow under-eye area, this procedure can address your concerns in one simple surgery.

For those unsure about whether surgery is the right choice, fillers and other non-invasive treatments are available, but they may only provide temporary relief. Ultimately, a consultation with a cosmetic surgeon is the best way to determine the ideal treatment for your needs.

Contact Linia Cosmetic today to schedule a consultation and explore your options for under-eye surgery or other cosmetic procedures. Don’t wait—book a free phone consultation to discuss the best approach to achieving the refreshed look you’ve always wanted.

Posted In: Face Treatments Blogs

Written By: Dr Azhar Aslam