Treating bags under the eyes
Bags and circles under the eyes are often thought of as a sign of physical exhaustion and lack of sleep but are more often a sign of growing older. The reason for this is that there is a small deposit of fat under the lower lid called the suborbicular oculi fat, or SOOF, which gradually migrates down to the upper cheeks with age. Getting rid of bags and circles under the eyes by operating on this deposit is a way not only to look younger but also more alert, well-rested, healthy, and attractive. It is often done alongside other procedures, such as a face lift, brow lift, or neck lift.
In an open lower lid blepharoplasty the surgeon makes an incision under the eyelashes of the lower lid, lifts the skin and muscle and takes the SOOF completely. Unfortunately, the missing deposit of fat makes the lower eyelid and tear trough look hollow. It can be replaced by fat taken from another part of the body, but if the new fat is too heavy it can lead to a condition called ectropion. (Google this term if you are not feeling squeamish.) So the best facial plastic surgeon in Charlotte came up with a better way — the SOOF lift blepharoplasty, in which the surgeon lifts the SOOF back into place and tightens the fascial layer in order to hold it in place.
Who should get a SOOF lift blepharoplasty and how to recover
A SOOF lift blepharoplasty is generally for people in their late forties or fifties who have developed pronounced bags and circles under the eyes. For younger patients, nonsurgical procedures are a better idea. There are medical conditions that would make blepharoplasty a bad idea. Your facial plastic surgeon will tell you about these.
Recovery time varies from person to person, but will probably take several weeks. You may experience bruising, puffiness and sensitivity to light. Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen, and do not wear contact lenses. Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling, and try not to rub your eyes. Wear dark glasses if you go outside.
Charlotte’s most experienced facial plastic surgeon
The doctor who developed the SOOF lift blepharoplasty as an alternative to the traditional procedure is Dr. Sean Freeman of Charlotte. He has been certified by two different surgery boards, the American Board of Otolaryngology (head and neck surgery) and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Since 1988 he has done nothing but facial plastic surgery, including eyelid surgeries, and has often taught the SOOF lift to other surgeons. If you are interested in a SOOF lift blepharoplasty, call his office or request an online consultation for a discount on the consultation fee.
Contact Dr. Sean Freeman at Only Faces, Charlotte’s most experienced rhinoplasty surgeon and top facial plastic surgeon, to schedule a consultation to find out what procedure is right for you. Call today.
