Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower blepharoplasty is a popular surgical procedure aimed at enhancing the aesthetic appearance of the lower eyelids. Many people are bothered by the appearance of saggy skin under the eyes, dark circles, or lower eyelid bags. These signs of aging can contribute to a tired appearance or the feeling of looking older. Dr. Jennifer Murdock is an eyelid specialist who performs this very delicate procedure, lower eyelid blepharoplasty, which requires immense experience, skill, and knowledge
Understanding Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to remove and reposition aging tissue of the lower eyelid, including the skin, muscle, and fat. A lower eyelid blepharoplasty can be performed applying many different techniques, all to individualize the specific surgery to each unique patient’s needs. The main objectives of surgery are to reduce puffiness, remove under-eye bags, tighten loose or sagging skin, and improve overall eye appearance. Dr. Murdock is a board-certified surgeon who customizes each lower blepharoplasty to provide the best results possible for each person.
Candidates for the Procedure:
Ideal candidates are individuals who are in good health, do not smoke, and have realistic expectations about the outcomes. Dr. Murdock aims to provide natural results that also enhance the aesthetic appearance. The procedure is particularly beneficial for those who have:
- Excess, sagging, or wrinkled skin on the lower eyelids
- Puffy eyelids from prolapsed fat
- Under-eye bags that persist despite adequate rest and good health
- Dark circles under the eyes
- Lower eyelid laxity
The Surgical Procedure
Preoperative Evaluation:
A thorough consultation with Jennifer Murdock, MD, a well-renowned plastic surgeon, is essential to first understand the aging changes and facial anatomy features for each individual patient. Then discussing personal goals, potential risks, pre-existing health conditions, and the expected outcomes of the surgery directly with Dr. Murdock is essential to achieve successful outcomes. Finally, the surgeon and her surgical team will counsel the patient about the surgical journey, including ways to prepare for the procedure, what to expect on the day of the procedure, and all appropriate post op instructions and restrictions.
Surgical Technique:
Jennifer Murdock, MD is a highly-trained oculofacial plastic surgeon who had honed her surgical skills over many years. The specific technique used during lower eyelid blepharoplasty can vary depending on the patient’s needs. All aspects of the eyelid can be addressed during this procedure:
Skin: Excess skin can be cut out with a small incision just beneath the lashes (subciliary). Dr. Murdock may also use laser resurfacing or laser micro-coring to tighten the eyelid skin, improve texture, and diminish the appearance of fine lines.
Muscle: Lax or loose muscle can cause eyelid malposition and descent of tissues with gravity. Tightening of the eyelid muscles and lifting of the eyelid and upper cheek tissues can provide additional rejuvenation and function to the eyelids.
Fat: Fat that usually cushions the eye within the orbit can prolapse down into the lower eyelids, contributing to under eye bags. Surgery involves removing excess fat and repositioning this fat in the hollow areas under the eyes and around the tear troughs. Fat repositioning can be addressed by an incision on the inside of the eyelid that cannot be seen after surgery.
Procedure Day
Dr. Murdock and her team will ensure each patient feels comfortable and ready for the day of the lower eyelid blepharoplasty. Whether in the office or at a surgery center, the procedure steps are consistent:
Anesthesia: In the office, Dr. Murdock will provide oral medications to help with patient comfort. Local anesthesia is administered to completely numb the area so that nothing during surgery is felt. At the surgery center, an anesthesiologist is present to administer IV sedation or general anesthesia.
Creating an incision: As a board-certified surgeon, Dr. Murdock minimizes the appearance of any incisions, so that all scars are completely hidden once fully healed.
Tissue repositioning: Excess fat, muscle, and skin are all placed in the proper position to create a more youthful appearance of the eyelid.
Closure: If needed, tiny sutures are placed to close all incisions and secure fat repositioning.
Post-op care: Cold compresses will begin right away with premade baggies of frozen peas, since these mold to the shape of the eye socket best. The more cold compresses that are used during the first 48 hours, the better and faster the recovery will be.
Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery period for lower eyelid blepharoplasty typically lasts several weeks. The area of the lower eyelids are delicate and very vascular. This area does take time to heal. Swelling and bruising are normal will eventually subside. The more adherent to the post op instructions patients are, the smoother the recovery will be.
Results:
Most patients notice an improvement in the appearance of their eyelids shortly after the swelling subsides. The final results are typically apparent after a few months, once complete healing has occurred.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, there are risks associated with lower eyelid blepharoplasty. These may include:
- Infection
- Bleeding or hemorrhage
- Prolonged eyelid swelling, festoons, or chemosis
- Undercorrection or overcorrection
- Scarring
- Eyelid retraction
- The need for revision surgery
- Unacceptable cosmetic appearance
Place your trust in a specialist
Lower eyelid blepharoplasty can significantly enhance the appearance of the eyes and face, providing a more rested and youthful look. However, this eyelid surgery requires the utmost skill and technique. Jennifer Murdock, MD is certified by the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS). This highly esteemed society has rigorous credentials to ensure all accepted surgeons are the top eyelid specialists in the country. Anyone considering this procedure should consult with Dr. Murdock, the most qualified oculofacial plastic surgeon in Miami, to thoroughly understand the benefits, potential risks, and recovery process. With realistic expectations and proper care, lower eyelid blepharoplasty offers satisfying outcomes for many patients seeking cosmetic improvement.
Book a Consultation
Jennifer Murdock, MD conveniently sees patients in 2 locations in Miami – Miami and Hallandale Beach. Call 305-315-5577 to inquire about eyelid surgery and lower eyelid blepharoplasty. With cosmetic rejuvenation, you can feel and look younger and happier.
