Transcutaneous Lower Blepharoplasty is a surgical technique for correcting under-eye bags through an incision placed close to the lower lash line. This approach allows the surgeon to adjust under-eye fat and remove excess skin during the same procedure. It may be suitable for individuals with under-eye bags, protruding lower eyelid fat, and loose or sagging under-eye skin.
At Dr. Gorn Aesthetique, the surgeon evaluates the lower eyelid anatomy, fat volume, skin laxity, and the relationship between the under-eye area and cheeks to develop an individualized surgical plan.
What Is Transcutaneous Lower Blepharoplasty?
Transcutaneous Lower Blepharoplasty involves an incision just below the lower eyelashes, positioned as close to the lash line as appropriate. This placement is intended to help the healed incision blend with the natural contours of the lower eyelid.
The external incision provides access to the lower eyelid structures, allowing the surgeon to address multiple concerns, including protruding under-eye fat, excess skin, and tissue laxity.
Benefits of Transcutaneous Lower Blepharoplasty
- Allows correction of under-eye bags and excess skin during the same procedure
- Enables adjustment or removal of excess lower eyelid fat when appropriate
- May allow fat repositioning to improve the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek in selected cases
- Addresses loose or sagging lower eyelid skin
- Places the incision close to the lower lash line to help it blend with the surrounding eye area
- Allows surgical planning based on individual anatomy
Who May Be Suitable for Transcutaneous Lower Blepharoplasty?
This surgical technique may be considered for individuals who:
- Have prominent under-eye bags or protruding lower eyelid fat
- Have loose or excess skin beneath the eyes
- Have lower eyelid wrinkles and skin laxity along with under-eye bags
- Have both under-eye bags and tear trough hollows
- Wish to address several lower eyelid concerns during the same procedure
- Have age-related changes around the eyes
The surgeon assesses skin elasticity, lower eyelid position, and facial anatomy before determining whether this technique is appropriate.
What Is the Difference Between Transcutaneous and Transconjunctival Lower Blepharoplasty?
Transcutaneous Lower Blepharoplasty uses an incision close to the lower eyelashes and allows treatment of both under-eye fat and excess skin. It may therefore be considered for patients with skin laxity and under-eye bags.
Transconjunctival Lower Blepharoplasty, on the other hand, uses an incision inside the lower eyelid, leaving no external skin incision. It is often considered for individuals with protruding lower eyelid fat but relatively little excess skin.
The choice of technique depends not only on age but also on individual anatomy and the specific concerns requiring correction.
Fat Repositioning with Transcutaneous Lower Blepharoplasty
For individuals with both prominent under-eye bags and deep tear troughs, the surgeon may consider fat repositioning rather than removing all the fat.
Some of the existing fat may be repositioned into the tear trough area to create a smoother transition between the lower eyelid and cheek and reduce the visible difference in contour between the under-eye bags and hollows.
The appropriate approach depends on individual fat volume, bone structure, and surrounding tissues.
Will the Incision Scar Be Visible?
Because the incision is placed close to the lower lash line, temporary redness, swelling, or a visible incision line may occur during the initial recovery period. Its appearance gradually changes as healing progresses.
The long-term appearance of the scar varies depending on skin characteristics, wound care, and individual scar formation. Patients should follow the surgeon's wound care instructions and attend scheduled follow-up appointments.
How Long Is Recovery After Transcutaneous Lower Blepharoplasty?
Temporary swelling, bruising, or tightness around the eyes may occur after surgery and generally improve as recovery progresses.
Patients should avoid rubbing their eyes, strenuous exercise, and activities that may impact the eye area. Medications and wound care should be followed as directed by the surgeon.
Recovery time and scar maturation vary between individuals.
