Lower Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift)

Lower blepharoplasty can be performed either with an incision behind the eyelid (with no visible scars) or with an incision immediately below the eyelashes (with a very subtle and meticulously hidden incision). Patients who have very little redundant skin, but mostly enlarged or protruding fat pads, are typically good candidates for the first approach. Those who have excessive skin and would require removal of some of the lower eyelid skin may benefit from the second approach. No two patients are the same, and Dr. Joseph fully tailors the surgical plan to your specific presentation and anatomy. The goal is to enhance your natural beauty without making it obvious that work was done.  Additional information is available through the ASOPRS website.

Lower blepharoplasty can be one of the most challenging cosmetic procedures to perform well. The anatomy of the lower eyelids is complex and intricate. Dr. Shannon S. Joseph is an oculofacial plastic surgeon and Dr. Andrew W. Joseph is a facial plastic surgeon who are fellowship-trained and highly specialized in working with the eyelids. This level of sub-specialization means that we have extensive experience in eyelid plastic surgery.

We perform a comprehensive evaluation of each patient at their consultation. Our surgeons will take their time to listen to your concerns and discuss everything with you in detail. We will then work together with you to design an individualized surgical plan optimized for you. Learn more about why patients choose us.

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty surgery may be performed with patients awake, under twilight anesthesia, or fully asleep.  We individualize the plan for anesthesia based on patient preference, whether additional procedures are planned, and the patient's overall health.

Surgical recovery varies from person to person, but most patients can return to work a week after surgery.  Most patients experience only mild discomfort and do not need strong pain medications.  Following surgery, most patients will be seen in the office approximately 5-10 days later to evaluate healing.  Bruising and swelling will be present after surgery, and is most noticeable for the first 1-2 weeks after surgery. Minor swelling can persist for several weeks.  If desired, most patients may begin wearing eye makeup following the first appointment after surgery.

Please refer to our additional resources for general pre-operative and post-operative instructions to ensure that your surgery and recovery goes as smoothly as possible.

Lower blepharoplasty is generally considered a cosmetic surgical procedure and is not covered by insurances. Upper blepharoplasty, however, is sometimes covered by insurance. Many patients are interested in having their upper and lower blepharoplasty performed at the same time. In these situations, insurance may cover the upper eyelids, while a quote can be provided for the lower eyelids.

Many patients undergoing lower blepharoplasty also choose to undergo upper blepharoplasty at the same time for a harmonious and balanced upper face rejuvenation. Other procedures that sometimes can be combined with lower blepharoplasty include upper eyelid ptosis repair, brow/forehead lift, skin resurfacing, and fat grafting. At your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Joseph, she will work with you to build a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.