Is a Lower Eyelid Surgery Painful?

Not necessarily. Lower eyelid surgery uses one of two forms of anesthesia, depending on how much correction is needed (as outlined in your surgical plan). Afterward, you should expect swelling, tightness, and bruising in the area, which peak in the first 1-2 weeks and gradually subside thereafter.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

You’ll kick off the process with a consultation at one of our Greater Los Angeles-area offices, followed by your surgery, and then a series of follow-up visits for our team to monitor your healing. This allows for any necessary adjustments to your recovery instructions and provides peace of mind by keeping you updated on your progress.

How Long Until I See Results?

Given that swelling, bruising, and redness are going to be prominent during the first couple of weeks post-operation, you likely won’t begin to see real results until after this time. At this point, your results will reveal a refreshed, smooth appearance that only continues to refine. After about 3-6 months, you can enjoy your final results.

Can I Combine a Lower Eyelid Surgery with Other Procedures?

Yes, you can absolutely combine eyelid surgery with other procedures. The most common combination is upper eyelid surgery, which is especially beneficial for patients with puffiness and excess skin and fat around the entire anatomy of their eyes. In some cases, brow lifts may be necessary to achieve more comprehensive results.

What Are the Risks Associated with a Lower Eyelid Surgery?

Most complications are uncommon and often temporary, especially when patients closely follow pre- and post-operative instructions, but may include: Temporary swelling, bruising, or discomfort around the eyes Dry eyes, excessive tearing, or temporary sensitivity to light Mild asymmetry or contour irregularities during healing Infection or delayed wound healing (rare) Changes in eyelid position, such as lower lid tightness or retraction (uncommon) Scarring (generally minimal and well-hidden) Bleeding or fluid accumulation Very rarely, changes in vision It’s important to understand that many of these risks are minimized through proper surgical planning, meticulous technique, and careful aftercare.

Beverly Hills, Ca

Lower Eyelid Surgery

Introduction

Introduction to Lower Eyelid Surgery

Something not everyone realizes is how your lower eyelid’s appearance affects your overall facial expression. Puffiness, loose skin, and fat deposits… all can create an aged, tired, or unhappy look that may not align with how one feels. Lower eyelid surgery takes care of this. Dr. Moy of Beverly Hills, Torrance, and the greater Los Angeles area performs lower eyelid surgery as a way of helping patients achieve a smoother, more alert, and youthful appearance that lasts for decades. By removing unwanted tissue around the area, patients can take years off their appearance and enjoy a radiance that boosts their confidence and overall well-being.

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What is a Lower Eyelid Surgery?

Lower eyelid surgery (lower blepharoplasty) rejuvenates the under-eye area by addressing puffiness, sagging skin, hollowing, and visible under-eye bags. Over time, aging, genetics, and volume loss can cause fat to protrude or descend beneath the eyes, creating a tired or aged appearance even when you feel well-rested. This procedure carefully removes or repositions fat, tightens lax skin or muscle, and smooths the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek. Depending on your anatomy and goals, Dr. Moy may use either an external incision just beneath the lash line or a transconjunctival approach (inside the eyelid) to minimize visible scarring. The result is a brighter, smoother, more refreshed under-eye contour that still looks completely natural.

Who Are the Best Candidates For a Lower Eyelid Surgery?

For those in the greater Los Angeles area considering lower eyelid surgery, we generally work with individuals who are bothered by under-eye bags, loose skin, or a fatigued appearance that does not improve with skincare or non-surgical treatments. You may be a strong candidate if you:

Have visible under-eye puffiness or fat protrusion
Notice loose or crepey skin beneath the eyes
Experience hollowing or deep tear troughs
Feel your eyes make you look older or more tired than you are
Do not smoke (or are willing to stop before surgery)
Have realistic expectations and a positive outlook

A personalized consultation is essential, as factors such as skin quality, eye shape, facial structure, and overall health play a role in determining the best surgical approach.

What Are the Benefits of a Lower Eyelid Surgery?

Lower eyelid surgery helps patients look as vibrant, energized, and refreshed as they feel. Common advantages include:

Reduction or elimination of under-eye bags and puffiness
Smoother under-eye skin and improved eyelid contour
Softening of hollow or shadowed tear troughs
A more rested, youthful, and approachable appearance
Long-lasting results compared to injectable treatments alone
Improved facial harmony between the eyes and cheeks

Many patients also report a boost in self-confidence, especially when makeup sits better, or they no longer feel the need to conceal dark circles or swelling.

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What’s the First Step?

You’ll begin the process with a private consultation, where Dr. Moy evaluates your under-eye anatomy, listens carefully to your concerns, and discusses your aesthetic goals. This visit includes a detailed facial assessment, a review of your medical history, and an explanation of surgical options, including incision placement, fat repositioning versus removal, and whether additional procedures might enhance your results or address other concerns. You’ll also receive a customized treatment plan, a recovery timeline, and a transparent pricing overview, allowing you to make an informed, confident decision before scheduling surgery.

What to Expect on the Day of Lower Eyelid Surgery

Lower eyelid surgery is most often performed as an outpatient procedure in a Los Angeles surgical facility under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. On the day of treatment, you’ll review final details with your care team and then be taken into the operating suite.

The procedure takes roughly one to two hours, during which Dr. Moy will carefully address fat deposits, tighten supportive tissues, and refine the skin as needed, all while preserving the natural shape of your eyes. After surgery, you’ll rest briefly in recovery before being discharged with detailed aftercare instructions and medications, and you’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours.

Dr. Lauren Moy, MD, FAAD, wearing black scrubs, a surgical mask, and a green hair net, looking down while performing a precise dermatological procedure.

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Lower Eyelid Surgery Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Lower Eyelid Surgery Care

Recovery from lower eyelid surgery is generally well tolerated, with patients experiencing most of the temporary swelling, bruising, and mild tightness around the eyes in the first couple of weeks. Cold compresses, head elevation, and prescribed medications help manage these symptoms during the first few days.

First week: Swelling and bruising peak, then gradually subside; sutures (if external) are usually removed within 5–7 days.
Two weeks: Many patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities with minimal visible signs of surgery.
Several weeks to months: Residual swelling continues to improve, and final results become increasingly apparent.

How Much Does a Lower Eyelid Surgery Cost in Beverly Hills & Torrance, CA?

The cost of lower eyelid surgery in Beverly Hills, Torrance, and the greater Los Angeles area varies by individual and the extent of the procedure. Pricing reflects the technical expertise of your surgeon, whether you’re having upper and lower eyelid surgery together or any additional procedures, facility fees, anesthesia fees, and medication fees. The bottom-line pricing will be calculated during your consultation, once your surgical plan has been established. Additionally, financing options are available through our practice for interested individuals.

Why Choose Dr. Moy?

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Dr. Lauren Moy blends heritage, refinement, and forward-thinking innovation as a double board-certified cosmetic and facial plastic surgeon serving Beverly Hills and Torrance. Mentored by her father, Dr. Ronald Moy, she carries forward a respected family legacy in medicine while cultivating her own distinct identity and approach to facial rejuvenation.

Triple Board-certified in dermatology and facial cosmetic surgery, Dr. Moy has authored more than 20 peer-reviewed publications and completed training in Mohs micrographic surgery and aesthetic procedures. Her academic foundation includes an accelerated medical program through Siena College and Albany Medical College, dermatologic research at Harbor-UCLA and USC, and serving as chief resident at Loyola University Medical Center.

Lower Eyelid Surgery FAQ’S

Most complications are uncommon and often temporary, especially when patients closely follow pre- and post-operative instructions, but may include:
- Temporary swelling, bruising, or discomfort around the eyes
- Dry eyes, excessive tearing, or temporary sensitivity to light
- Mild asymmetry or contour irregularities during healing
- Infection or delayed wound healing (rare)
- Changes in eyelid position, such as lower lid tightness or retraction (uncommon)
- Scarring (generally minimal and well-hidden)
- Bleeding or fluid accumulation
- Very rarely, changes in vision
It’s important to understand that many of these risks are minimized through proper surgical planning, meticulous technique, and careful aftercare.

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