Lower Blepharoplasty

When performing a lower blepharoplasty, Dr. Rad uses the following protocol:

1. Under Eye Bag removal with Dr. Rad is achieved by surgically removing the three small fat pads behind the eye that have progressively bulged forward over time. However, the tear trough beneath the undereye makes puffiness appear worse. Like a hill going into a valley, reducing the hill and filling the valley can level the terrain

Recovery is a process of tissue healing and feeling back to normal that requires time. The length of time depends on which facial areas are treated, the complexity of surgery, and individual healing factors. The key principle of surgery that Dr. Rad always adheres to is minimizing surgery to achieve best results, thus minimizing healing and recovery time. Since each case is different, Dr. Rad will make sure to guide each patient through the recovery process with comprehensive information based on your unique situation.

Mild bruising and temporary swelling are normal and resolve quickly, typically over 3-5 days, depending on the extent of your procedures. Dr. Rad’s detailed pre- and post-operative preparations ensure that you can achieve results quickly and with minimal down time. While healing and recovery will be different for each patient, returning to work or going to social outings about 5-10 days after surgery is common.

Care post-surgery is important for both your recovery and results whether at your home or at a hotel. For your safety, as you’ll be somewhat sleepy, you will need a responsible adult to stay with you for at least the first night. If you’re interested in having an experienced private duty nurse, we can help facilitate this care.

Once home or in a hotel, you will mostly rest, although you should be able to perform “activities of daily living,” meaning being up and about and doing basic self care. Since your head will be wrapped, you’ll defer showering until your first post-op appointment with Dr. Rad 1-2 days after surgery.

During the daytime you should walk 10-15 minutes each hour and should not be on bed rest. Pain is relatively mild and most patients need a mild pain medicine to help them sleep. Tissues react with swelling and bruising that distorts facial appearance and causes facial muscles not to work normally, but this is normal and temporary. Cold compresses and head elevation helps with comfort and swelling.

Since nausea is not uncommon after anesthesia, no matter how light the anesthesia given, nausea prevention is essential and straightforward by taking an anti-nausea medicine such as Zofran (Ondansetron). Nausea side effects typically wear off in 24-48 hours. Other side effects of anesthesia include feeling a bit groggy or “out of it”, but this is relatively mild and wears off quickly. Dr. Rad recommends not planning important work-related activities or phone calls as you will not feel your sharpest.

Drinking liquids is most important to maintain hydration. Dr. Rad recommends Gatorade, or Drip Drop and Liquid IV electrolyte replacement powders mixed in water. If neck lift has been done then patients often feel some neck tightness that is normal, common and temporary. You will see Dr. Rad within the first few days to check on your early healing.