If you’ve noticed puffiness or sagging under your eyes that doesn’t go away with rest, a lower eyelid lift might be worth considering. Also called lower blepharoplasty, this cosmetic procedure reduces under-eye bags and shadows by adjusting or removing excess fat and gently tightening loose skin.

While the surgery doesn’t affect your vision, it can significantly improve the appearance of tired eyes. At Michigan Oculofacial Specialists, Dr. Lawrence Handler and Dr. Zachary Pearce specialize in treating the delicate structures around the eyes. Both are fellowship-trained oculofacial surgeons who offer precise, natural-looking results in a safe and supportive environment.

Why Do Under-Eye Bags Form?

Under-eye bags aren’t always the result of poor sleep, although fatigue can make them more noticeable. In most cases, puffiness and sagging develop over time due to regular age-related changes in fat, skin, and tissue support.

Fat Shifting Forward

Behind your eyes is a protective layer of fat. As the tissues that hold this fat in place weaken with age, the fat can begin to bulge forward. This creates visible puffiness or “bags” beneath the eyes — one of the most common cosmetic concerns affecting the eyelids.

Skin Thinning and Laxity

The skin under your eyes is some of the thinnest on your body. Over time, your body produces less collagen and elastin, resulting in sagging, fine lines, and wrinkles. Without firm support, the skin in this area can droop or appear loose — especially when combined with bulging fat.

Fluid Retention and Lifestyle Factors

In some individuals, fluid accumulates more easily under the eyes, resulting in swelling that becomes more pronounced with age. Genetics, high-salt diets, allergies, and sleeping position can all contribute to this kind of puffiness.

Even when you’re healthy and rested, these changes can make you look older or chronically fatigued. When skincare products no longer provide relief, lower eyelid surgery may be a suitable next step.

What Exactly Does a Lower Eyelid Lift Do?

A lower eyelid lift (lower blepharoplasty) is a customized surgical procedure that restores a smoother, more youthful look under the eyes. It’s designed to remove or reposition bulging fat, tighten loose skin, and reduce the deep grooves or hollow areas that can create shadows.

Surgical Technique

The surgeon begins with a small incision, either inside the lower eyelid (a transconjunctival approach) or just below the lash line, depending on the treatment plan. Through this incision, the fat causing puffiness is carefully repositioned or removed. If necessary, sagging skin is trimmed and gently tightened to achieve a smoother contour.

When volume loss contributes to a sunken appearance, the surgeon may use your natural fat to fill hollow areas, thereby improving the transition between your lower eyelid and cheek.

Natural Results

This procedure isn’t about dramatically changing your appearance. Instead, it’s meant to restore balance and brightness to your features while maintaining your natural expression. When performed by an experienced oculofacial surgeon, the result is subtle and refreshed — not tight or overdone.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you’ll return home the same day. The surgery usually takes one to two hours and may be done under local anesthesia with sedation or under general anesthesia, depending on your preferences and the surgical plan.

After surgery, you’ll receive detailed instructions to guide your recovery. Dr. Handler and Dr. Pearce employ precise techniques to minimize bruising and preserve the natural symmetry of your features.

How Soon Will You See Results?

Recovery after lower eyelid surgery happens gradually. Swelling and bruising are expected during the first week, typically starting to improve around day seven. Many patients feel comfortable returning to work or social activities by the second week.

As the tissue continues to heal over the next several months, the final result becomes more refined. The overall effect is subtle but noticeable — most patients describe looking more rested and alert without looking “done.”

How Long Do Results Last?

Results from a lower eyelid lift can last a decade or longer. The fat that’s repositioned or removed does not typically return, and the improvements in contour are long-lasting. However, your skin will continue to age naturally.

The longevity of your results depends on your skin quality, age, and lifestyle habits. Practicing good sun protection, staying hydrated, and maintaining a consistent skincare routine can help extend the benefits of surgery.

Can a Lower Eyelid Lift Fix Dark Circles?

Sometimes. If your dark circles are caused by shadows from bulging fat or deep tear troughs, blepharoplasty can significantly improve them by smoothing the area and restoring volume. However, if the discoloration is caused by pigmentation, thin skin, or visible veins, surgery alone may not resolve the issue.

In such cases, your surgeon may recommend additional non-surgical treatments, such as dermal fillers or laser resurfacing, to address the remaining concerns.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from lower eyelid surgery is usually straightforward. For the first few days, you’ll use cold compresses to reduce swelling and keep your head elevated as much as possible. You’ll also apply any prescribed ointments or eye drops to support healing.

Physical activity should be limited for about one to two weeks. Makeup can usually be worn again after 10 to 14 days, once the area is healed enough. If your surgeon uses non-dissolvable sutures, they’re typically removed within a week. Most people find that swelling and bruising fade significantly within two weeks.

Why Choose Michigan Oculofacial Specialists?

When it comes to the delicate area around your eyes, expertise matters. At Michigan Oculofacial Specialists, patients receive highly specialized care from fellowship-trained surgeons.

Dr. Lawrence Handler, MD, and Dr. Zachary Pearce, DO, are board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeons who focus exclusively on eyelid and facial procedures. Their advanced training allows them to perform lower eyelid lifts with exceptional precision, minimizing the risk of complications and helping patients achieve natural-looking results.

From your first consultation to your final follow-up, you’ll receive care that’s attentive, honest, and rooted in surgical excellence. Patients throughout Detroit, Troy, and Clinton Township trust this team for both cosmetic and functional eyelid procedures.

Ready to Smooth Away Under-Eye Bags?

If you’re ready to take the next step toward a refreshed, more confident appearance, Michigan Oculofacial Specialists is here to help. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Handler or Dr. Pearce to find out if a lower eyelid lift is the right option for you.

Schedule Your Consultation