Addition blepharoplasty: technique, benefits and FAQ

Did you know that the eyes are often the first to betray the signs of age or fatigue? Over time, the skin of the eyelids loses its elasticity and the fat that supports the eyes diminishes, creating a hollow, exhausted look. For decades, traditional blepharoplasty has been the preferred solution for drooping eyelids and under-eye bags. This method, based on the removal of skin and fat, can nonetheless accentuate that hollow appearance and age the face further. This is where addition blepharoplasty comes into play: an innovative approach that combines a light skin resection with an injection of autologous fat. The result? Rejuvenated, luminous and naturally harmonious eyes.

Understanding traditional blepharoplasty and its limitations

Traditional blepharoplasty removes excess skin and fatty pads from the upper and lower eyelids. Although it is effective in correcting a heavy look, it does have drawbacks:

• Hollow effect: removing too much fat can make the eyes look hollow. One 50-year-old patient, for example, saw her eye sockets deepen after an overly aggressive procedure, which accentuated her tired appearance.
• Aesthetic risks: over-excision can lead to an unnatural look, or to complications such as incomplete eyelid closure.

These limitations have prompted surgeons to explore alternatives, among them addition blepharoplasty, which focuses on restoring volume rather than simply removing it.

What is addition blepharoplasty?

Addition blepharoplasty is a surgical technique that combines a moderate skin resection with lipofilling, that is, the injection of fat taken from the patient (often from the abdomen or thighs). Designed to overcome the shortcomings of the traditional method, it offers a more natural approach:

• Volume restoration: the injected fat fills the hollows, restoring the eyelids to their former fullness.
• Harmony preserved: it avoids the “surgical” look by maintaining the natural expressions of the face.
• Long-lasting results: once the fat has taken, it remains stable, giving a prolonged effect.

The benefits of addition blepharoplasty

Here is what makes this technique so significant:

• Correction of dark circles and puffiness: it reduces hollows and puffiness without excessive removal.
• Skin regeneration: the stem cells present in autologous fat improve the texture of the skin and make it smoother.
• Optimal safety: no rejection is possible, since the fat comes from the patient.
• Rapid recovery: the after-effects are mild, with a return to normal in 7 to 14 days.

Who can benefit from this procedure?

This technique is intended for:

• Those with hollow or drooping eyelids: ideal for the visible signs of ageing.
• People with pronounced dark circles: ideal for erasing that shadowy effect under the eyes.
• Those with tired eyes: even when well rested, some people need a boost of radiance.
• Those who prefer natural solutions: a lasting alternative to temporary injections such as hyaluronic acid.

Contraindications: not recommended in cases of coagulation disorders, eye infections or serious conditions. A consultation is essential in order to assess your eligibility.

How the procedure works

Here is how it unfolds:

1. Preliminary consultation: the surgeon examines your eyelids and defines a plan suited to your expectations.
2. Fat harvesting: under local or general anaesthetic, fat is taken from a discreet area (abdomen, thighs).
3. Purification: the fat is filtered to isolate the viable cells.
4. Targeted injection: using micro-cannulas, it is injected precisely into the eyelids.
5. Post-operative follow-up: checks are carried out to make sure the fat has integrated well.

Recovery and post-operative care

Recovery is generally straightforward:

• Swelling and bruising: normal during the first few days, they fade in 1 to 2 weeks. Cold compresses help to reduce them.
• Scars: virtually concealed, whose visibility depends on healing, they blend into the natural folds of the eyelids.
• Return to activity: 7 to 10 days for everyday tasks; avoid sport for 2 weeks.
• Final result: optimal after 2 to 3 months, once the fat has stabilised.

Practical tip: sleep with your head raised to limit swelling.

FAQ on addition blepharoplasty

1. What is the difference with conventional blepharoplasty?
   The conventional technique removes skin and fat; the addition technique restores volume with lipofilling.
2. How long does recovery take?
   7 to 14 days before returning to your activities, with a stable result at 6 months.
3. Are there any risks?
   They are minimal (bruising, swelling), with rare cases of infection or asymmetry.
4. Are the results permanent?
   Yes, the integrated fat lasts, natural ageing aside.
5. Is it painful?
   No, the anaesthetic removes the pain, and the after-effects can be managed with mild painkillers.
6. Can it be combined with other treatments?
   Yes, with a facelift or botox, for instance, for complete rejuvenation.
7. Lipofilling or hyaluronic acid?
   Lipofilling is permanent, unlike hyaluronic acid (6 to 12 months).
8. From what age?
   The average age is 40, but it all depends on your needs.
9. Are the scars visible?
   No, they remain discreet within the natural folds.

Conclusion

Addition blepharoplasty redefines eye rejuvenation with a natural, long-lasting approach. If you are looking for a rested, unforced look, contact Dr Bernard Hayot for a personalised consultation. Restore the radiance of your eyes today.