Introduction
Under-eye bags are one of the most common cosmetic concerns among adults. They can make individuals look tired, older, or unwell, even when they feel energetic and healthy. While topical creams and cosmetic treatments may provide minor improvements, they often fail to correct prominent puffiness or sagging under the eyes.
For many patients, lower eyelid surgery (lower blepharoplasty) offers a long-term solution. At the EyeFACE Institute in Toronto, oculoplastic surgeons specialize in advanced techniques to restore a youthful, refreshed appearance while maintaining natural results.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of lower eyelid surgery, from causes of under-eye bags to surgical options, recovery, and expected outcomes.
What Causes Under-Eye Bags?
Under-eye bags develop due to a combination of anatomical changes, lifestyle factors, and genetics. Common causes include:
- Fat protrusion: With age, orbital fat pushes forward, creating puffiness.
- Skin laxity: Thinning skin and loss of elasticity allow bulging.
- Weakening eyelid muscles: Reduced support leads to sagging.
- Fluid retention: Can worsen puffiness (e.g., allergies, high salt diet).
- Genetics: Some individuals inherit under-eye bags at a younger age.
Non-Surgical Options for Under-Eye Bags
Before considering surgery, some patients explore non-surgical treatments:
- Dermal Fillers: Camouflage hollow tear troughs but do not remove fat.
- Laser Skin Resurfacing: Improves skin texture and mild laxity.
- Radiofrequency/Ultrasound Therapy: Stimulates collagen for subtle tightening.
- Topical Skincare: Provides hydration but minimal improvement for true bags.
While helpful for mild cases, non-surgical options cannot eliminate moderate to severe under-eye bags.
What Is Lower Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)?
Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that:
- Removes or repositions excess fat pads.
- Tightens skin and underlying muscles.
- Smooths the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek.
The goal is not to remove all fat but to reshape and redistribute it, preventing a hollow or over-operated look.
Techniques in Lower Eyelid Surgery
At EyeFACE Institute, surgeons use advanced techniques customized to each patient’s anatomy:
1. Transconjunctival Approach
- Incision inside the lower eyelid.
- No visible external scar.
- Suitable for patients with excess fat but good skin tone.
2. Transcutaneous Approach
- Incision just below the lash line.
- Allows fat removal/repositioning and skin tightening.
- Ideal for patients with fat prolapse + skin laxity.
3. Fat Repositioning
- Instead of removing fat entirely, surgeons redistribute it to correct hollowing under the eyes.
- Creates a smoother, more natural contour.
4. Combination Procedures
- May be combined with laser resurfacing, canthopexy (eyelid tightening), or midface lift for enhanced results.
Benefits of Lower Eyelid Surgery
- Removes puffiness and under-eye bags.
- Smooths the eyelid–cheek junction.
- Restores a youthful, rested appearance.
- Long-lasting results (often 10+ years).
- Boosts self-confidence.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgery, there are potential risks, though rare when performed by an experienced oculoplastic surgeon:
- Bruising and swelling
- Temporary dry eye or tearing
- Asymmetry
- Infection or bleeding
- Very rarely: eyelid malposition
At EyeFACE Institute, surgeons use advanced techniques to minimize complications and ensure natural-looking, safe outcomes.
Recovery After Lower Eyelid Surgery
- Day 1–3: Swelling and bruising peak. Cold compresses recommended.
- Day 4–7: Stitches (if external incision used) may be removed.
- Week 2: Most swelling subsides; patients can return to normal routines.
- Weeks 4–6: Final results become visible.
Patients are advised to:
- Keep head elevated during sleep.
- Avoid strenuous activity for 2 weeks.
- Use prescribed eye ointments/drops as directed.
Who Is a Candidate?
Ideal candidates for lower eyelid surgery include:
- Patients with puffy under-eye bags unresponsive to creams or fillers.
- Healthy individuals with realistic expectations.
- Non-smokers (or those willing to quit before/after surgery).
- Patients with no uncontrolled eye conditions (e.g., severe dry eye, glaucoma).
Lower Eyelid Surgery Results
When performed by specialists, results include:
- Natural rejuvenation: Eyes look refreshed, not “operated on.”
- Balanced contour: No hollowness or excessive tightening.
- Longevity: Many patients enjoy results for over a decade.
At EyeFACE Institute, before-and-after images help patients visualize expected outcomes.
Lower Eyelid Surgery in Toronto: Why Choose EyeFACE Institute
The EyeFACE Institute is Toronto’s premier center for cosmetic and functional eyelid surgery.
- Led by fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeons with extensive experience in lower blepharoplasty.
- Perform 1,500+ eyelid and facial surgeries annually.
- Known for combining medical expertise with artistic precision, ensuring natural and long-lasting results.
- Provide comprehensive consultations to determine the best surgical approach for each patient.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does lower eyelid surgery take?
Usually 1–2 hours, performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. - Is it painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort, managed with over-the-counter pain relief. - Will there be scars?
With the transconjunctival approach, no visible scar. With the external approach, the incision is hidden under the lash line. - How long do results last?
Often 10+ years, though aging continues naturally. - Can lower eyelid surgery be combined with upper eyelid surgery?
Yes. Many patients undergo both procedures for complete rejuvenation.
Conclusion
Under-eye bags are a common concern that non-surgical treatments often fail to address effectively. For long-lasting correction, lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) remains the gold standard.
At the EyeFACE Institute in Toronto, patients receive expert evaluation and customized treatment plans. With advanced surgical techniques, natural outcomes, and a focus on patient safety, EyeFACE provides one of the most trusted approaches to eyelid rejuvenation in Canada.
Whether seeking to look more youthful, feel more confident, or restore balance to the face, lower eyelid surgery can provide transformative results when performed by skilled oculoplastic surgeons.
- Visit us at our Toronto clinic
- Book Consultation
- Call to schedule your consultation: (647) 351-6501
