Lower Eyelid Surgery for Puffy Under Eye Circles

The signs of aging develop differently in patients. Some notice the formation of fine lines in the delicate skin that surrounds the eyes, along with deepening under eye circles. This aging of the skin around the eyes can be of particular concern for patients. Not only can it make patients look older, it can also make them look as though they are feeling tired and worn out. Fortunately, there are treatment options that can restore smooth, tight skin to the eye area. At Jefferson Plastic Surgery, we perform lower eyelid surgery to reduce under eye puffiness, circles, and even those fine lines that have developed.

Causes and Prevention of Under Eye Circles

Under eye circles may develop as the result of genetics, the aging process, and collagen loss. As we age, the fat under the eyes may accumulate in certain areas, and the skin loses its natural elasticity and volume. In addition, some patients are simply more likely to develop under eye circles due to their genetic make-up.

While under eye circles can’t always be prevented, there are some steps you can take to minimize their appearance.

• Avoid chronically rubbing or itching the eyes
• Use an effective under eye cream, especially at night
• Don’t smoke
• Limit alcohol use
• Exercise regularly
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet

Treatment of Puffy Under Eye Circles

While a good eye cream can improve under eye skin to a degree, once under eye circles have formed, professional treatment is required to minimize their appearance. Non-surgical methods such as dermal filler injections can fill in the creases to produce a smoother contour. Dermal filler treatment lasts for six months to two years, depending on the filler that is used to treat the under eye circles.

For more permanent, and in some cases more effective, results, patients can undergo lower eyelid surgery. Lower eyelid surgery involves an incision along the lower lash line. Through this incision, our surgeons can remove or redistribute fat, and excise excess skin. This greatly reduces the appearance of bags, under eye circles, and fine lines.

Lower Eyelid Surgery Recovery

Many patients avoid eyelid surgery because they are worried about the recovery. While patients will want to take at least a week off of work, recovery is usually more comfortable than patients expect. While some discomfort should be expected, it can be controlled with pain medication. During the first week, patients should take pain medication and rest with the head elevated. Some bruising and swelling should be expected. These side effects are typically at their worst two to three days after surgery, after which point they should begin to subside. Patients may also experience dry eyes in the days after surgery. Lubricating eye drops can be used to alleviate the dryness.

The results of eyelid surgery should be visible after about six weeks, once all swelling has gone down. To schedule a lower eyelid surgery consultation and find out if you are a good candidate for treatment, contact Jefferson Plastic Surgery today.