Refresh tired-looking eyes by reducing puffiness, fine lines, and sagging with a lower blepharoplasty; an expert-led procedure that restores a youthful, rested appearance.
Overview
Lower eyelid surgery, or lower blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to address puffiness, sagging skin, and wrinkles beneath the eyes. By repositioning or removing excess fat and tightening the lower lid area, this treatment creates a smoother, firmer, and more refreshed look.
This surgery is popular among patients seeking to reduce under-eye bags and signs of aging, particularly when non-surgical treatments no longer provide desired results. It can be performed alone or oftentimes is combined with upper eyelid surgery or a facelift for full facial rejuvenation.
Costs vary depending on the provider’s expertise, location, and if combined with other procedures.
Average cost (USD)
Cost Range (USD)
These figures reflect national averages. A formal consultation is required to determine your custom surgical plan and final pricing.
Lower eyelid surgery begins with a comprehensive consultation to assess your facial anatomy, skin elasticity, and aesthetic goals. On the day of the procedure, the surgeon makes precise incisions, either just beneath the lower lash line or inside the lower eyelid (transconjunctival approach), to access and adjust fat deposits, trim excess skin, and tighten underlying muscle if needed. These techniques reduce puffiness, improve smoothness, and create a more youthful contour beneath the eyes.
This outpatient procedure is typically performed under local or general anesthesia and lasts about 1 to 2 hours. Most patients experience minimal discomfort, and recovery is generally straightforward with proper care.
Lower blepharoplasty treats under-eye bags, loose or sagging skin, fine lines, puffiness, and lower eyelid wrinkles.
The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours depending on complexity and whether combined with other facial procedures.
Candidates are generally healthy non-smokers with noticeable under-eye concerns not responsive to skincare or injectables. A consultation determines suitability.
Most swelling and bruising subside within 10 to 14 days. Patients can typically return to work and social activities within a week, following post-operative care instructions.
Lower eyelid surgery removes or repositions fat and excess skin beneath the eyes, addressing puffiness, bags, or hollowing that concealer alone can’t fix. A surgeon customizes the approach based on whether the issue is fat, skin, or both. Below are the concerns this treatment addresses, each explained on its concern page.
Dark circles under the eyes can come from thinning skin, shadowing from fat pad displacement, or a hollow transition between the lid and cheek. Lower eyelid surgery repositions or removes this fat, softening the shadow that often makes dark circles look more pronounced.
As skin loses elasticity with age, the lower eyelid can develop loose, crepey skin that doesn't sit smoothly against the eye. Lower eyelid surgery removes this excess skin directly, leaving a smoother, tighter contour beneath the eye.
The skin around the outer corners of the eyes is thin and shows movement-related lines earlier than most other areas of the face. While lower eyelid surgery focuses on fat and skin beneath the eye, tightening this area often softens the appearance of nearby crow's feet as well.
Initial recovery typically takes 7 to 10 days, with swelling and bruising fading gradually. Most patients return to daily routines within a week, though full results may take several weeks to appear.
Patients experiencing under-eye puffiness, sagging, or fine lines and are in overall good health, may be good candidates, though every case is different. A consultation with a board-certified surgeon will help determine the best approach.
No. Incisions are made in discreet locations, such as just under the lash line or inside the eyelid. When healed properly, scarring is minimal to invisible.
Results typically last 10 years or more. While the aging process continues, most patients enjoy a long-term improvement in under-eye appearance with proper skincare.
Temporary blurred vision or irritation may occur during recovery, but permanent vision changes are extremely rare. Choosing an experienced surgeon minimizes risks.
The following references provide clinical evidence and safety information on Lower Eyelid Surgery (Lower Blepharoplasty):
Overview of lower blepharoplasty procedure, candidacy, and recovery expectations.
Clinical insights on fat repositioning techniques and complication rates.
Trusted overview of risks, benefits, and recovery for eyelid surgery.
All sources reviewed for clinical accuracy and relevance.
Consultant Ophthalmologist and Oculoplastic Surgeon, MBBS, BSc, FRCOphth
Specialist oculoplastic surgeon Mr Richard Scawn focuses on eyelid and brow procedures, combining advanced surgical expertise with a refined, patient-focused approach to deliver natural, balanced results.
London, UK
Consultant Oculoplastic Surgeon & Aesthetic Practitioner, BMBCh MA (OXON) L7Cert FRCOphth
Dr Jennifer Doyle is a Consultant Oculoplastic Surgeon and aesthetic doctor at The Clinic Holland Park, specializing in surgical and non-surgical treatments around the eyes. An Oxford University graduate and Fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, she combines advanced oculoplastic expertise with a natural, conservative approach focused on refreshing and restoring the eye area.
London, UK
MD, FACS
Dr. Anthony Admire is a board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Admire Plastic Surgery and Admire Skin + Wellness Clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Scottsdale, AZ
Scottsdale, AZ
FACS
Dr. Joshua Korman is a Board-Certified plastic surgeon and founder of Korman Plastic Surgery & Wunderbar MedSpa, serving the San Francisco Bay Area.
Mountain View, CA
Mountain View, CA
MD, FACS
Dr. Eric Mariotti is a board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Dr. Mariotti Plastic Surgery & M Spa in Walnut Creek, California.
Concord, CA
Concord, CA
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