A lower eyelid lift is a powerful procedure that can help rejuvenate the lower lids to make you look less tired and give a more youthful, natural, and smooth appearance. As there are many different surgical techniques that lift the lower lids, Dr. Lefkowitz finds it imperative to consider a patients anatomy and goals when deciding on a technique to ensure the best result. Some important anatomical structures that are addressed during lower blepharoplasty are explained below:
- Tear Trough Ligament (Orbital Retaining Ligament): This ligament tethers the skin to the bone below the lower eyelid that demarcates the lid and cheek. This is known as the lid-cheek junction. The fat pockets sit above this ligament and as we age, the cheek typically hollows below this ligament. When this occurs, a harsh transition can be seen which gives a tired and older appearance. Dr. Lefkowitz will release this ligament during the procedure.
- Fat Pockets: There are distinct 3 fat pockets that communicate with each other. As we age, these pockets become more prominent and can be seen as “bags under the eyes.” Historically, surgeons would simply remove these fat pockets. However, this often led to a more hollow and aged appearance. After the tear trough ligament is released, Dr. Lefkowitz can transpose the fat pockets to help smooth the lid-cheek junction. This helps to use your preexisting fat volume to our advantage, improving the contour of the lower eyelid and face.
- Skin: Many people believe the aged appearance of lower eyelids is due to excess skin,. however, this is rarely the case. While it is common to remove a very small amount of skin to enhance results (typically only 1-3 millimeters), Dr. Lefkowitz believes that releasing the important tethering ligament and using fat to reposition are the key maneuvers to a successful surgery.
- Lateral Canthus: This is a ligamentous structure that helps support the lower eyelid position. Patients often are concerned that the surgery will change the angle of their eye. Dr. Lefkowitz will simply support this ligament in its natural position, thus, no change in eye angle or slant will occur.
Dr. Lefkowitz will meticulously review your options based on your overall goals and concerns. Often times, non-surgical treatments can be helpful in addition to surgery to optimize your results. This, and all other questions you have, will be addressed during your consultation.
