Lower eyelid surgery

With the transconjunctival approach, the incision is made on the inside of the eyelid, with no external scar at all. With the external approach, a very fine incision is made along the lower lash line of the lower eyelid. This scar is camouflaged in the skin's natural lines and is almost invisible once healed.

Often, but it depends on the cause. Dark circles caused by the shadow from prominent fat bags are reduced markedly when the bags are treated. Dark circles caused by pigmentation, thin skin or blood vessels are not affected by the procedure alone; here, fat grafting to the tear trough or laser treatment can give a better overall result.

The tear trough is the hollow area that forms at the transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek. This hollow contributes to a tired or ageing look. By injecting the body's own fat into this area, volume is rebuilt, the shadow is reduced and the transition from eye to cheek becomes smoother and more youthful.

For the first few days, the eye area will be swollen, tender and discoloured. This is to be expected and subsides gradually. The swelling is the main reason why the final result is only fully visible after 3–6 months.

− Cold compresses for the first 48 hours relieve swelling and discomfort.

− Keep your head raised for the first few days – including at night.

− Socially presentable: Most people are ready after 10–14 days.

− Contact lenses: Avoid for 2 weeks after the surgery.

− Sport and strenuous activity: Avoid for 3–4 weeks.

− Sun on the scars: Avoid for at least 12 months – use at least SPF 50.

− Final result: Seen gradually over 3–6 months.

The result is long-lasting. Fat grafting to the tear trough gives permanent results, as the integrated fat behaves like the rest of the body's fat cells.

Yes, it is very common for both eyelids to be treated in the same session. It requires only one general anaesthetic and gives a complete, harmonious result across the whole eye area.

The surgery is performed under general anaesthetic. Afterwards, there is typically mild tenderness and tightness under the eyes for the first few days, which is managed with ordinary painkillers. Most people describe it as very manageable.

We recommend not wearing contact lenses for at least two weeks after the surgery. Glasses can be worn from the day after.

The result is long-lasting. Fat grafting to the tear trough is also permanent, as the integrated fat behaves like the rest of the body's fat cells. The skin will continue to age naturally.

Lower eyelid surgery is a well-documented procedure, but like all surgery it carries risks. The most relevant is ectropion, where the lower eyelid is pulled down and turns outwards, which can occur if too much skin is removed or if tightening scar tissue pulls on the lower eyelid. Other risks include bleeding, infection, temporary or permanent dry eye, asymmetry and, in rare cases, effects on vision. All risks are reviewed thoroughly at the consultation.

Every treatment journey at Caolín starts with a thorough, no-obligation consultation, where the surgeon assesses your anatomy and advises you on the best approach and on whether any complementary treatments could further enhance the result.

You are welcome to bring someone with you, and you can always contact us with questions along the way.