Did you know that the eyes often betray the first 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 hollowed, exhausted look. For decades traditional blepharoplasty has been the preferred solution for treating drooping eyelids and under-eye bags. However, this method, based on the removal of skin and fat, can sometimes accentuate this hollow appearance, further aging the face. This is where addition blepharoplastyan innovative approach that combines 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 bags from the upper and lower eyelids. Although effective in correcting a heavier look, it does have its drawbacks:

• Hollow effect: Excessive fat removal can make the eyes look hollow. For example, one 50-year-old patient saw her eye sockets deepen after an overly aggressive procedure, accentuating her tired appearance.
• Aesthetic risks: Excessive excision can lead to an unnatural look or complications such as incomplete eyelid closure.

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

What is addition blepharoplasty?

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

• Volume restoration: Injected fat fills hollows, restoring eyelids to their former fullness.
• Harmony preserved: It avoids the “surgical” aspect by maintaining the face’s natural expressions.
• Long-lasting results: once the fat is incorporated, it remains stable, offering a prolonged effect.

The benefits of addition blepharoplasty

Here’s what makes this technique so revolutionary:

• Correction of dark circles and puffiness: Reduces hollows and puffiness without excessive removal.
• Skin regeneration: the stem cells present in autologous fat improve skin texture, making it smoother.
• Optimum safety: No rejection possible, as the fat comes from the patient himself.
• Rapid recovery: The after-effects are slight, with a return to normal in 7 to 14 days.

Who can benefit from this intervention?

This technique is designed for :

• Those with sunken or drooping eyelids: Perfect for the visible signs of aging.
• 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.
• Fans of natural solutions: A sustainable option to temporary injections such as hyaluronic acid.

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

Procedure

Here’s how it works:

1. Preliminary consultation: The surgeon examines your eyelids and defines a plan adapted to your expectations.
2. Fat harvesting: Under local or general anesthesia, fat is extracted from a discreet area (abdomen, thighs).
3. Purification: Fat is filtered to isolate viable cells.
4. Targeted injection: using micro-cannulas, it is precisely injected into the eyelids.
5. Post-operative follow-up: Checks are carried out to ensure that the fat is well integrated.

Postoperative recovery and care

Recovery is generally easy:

• Swelling and bruising: Normal for the first few days, they fade in 1 to 2 weeks. Use cold compresses to reduce them.
• Scars: Virtually invisible, they blend into the natural folds of the eyelids.
• Resumption of activity: 7 to 10 days for daily tasks; avoid sport for 2 weeks.
• Final result: Optimal after 2 to 3 months, once the fat has stabilized.

Practical tip: Sleep with your head elevated to limit swelling.

FAQ about addition blepharoplasty

1. What’s the difference with conventional blepharoplasty?
   The classic removes skin and fat; the addition restores volume with lipofilling.
2. How long does it take to recover?
   7 to 14 days to resume your activities, with a stable result in 6 months.
3. Are there any risks?
   Minimal (bruising, edema), with rare cases of infection or asymmetry.
4. Are the results permanent?
   Yes, built-in fat lasts, despite natural aging.
5. Is it painful?
   No, anesthesia eliminates pain, and the after-effects can be managed with mild analgesics.
6. Can it be combined with other treatments?
   Yes, like a facelift or botox for complete rejuvenation.
7. Lipofilling or hyaluronic acid?
   Lipofilling is permanent, unlike hyaluronic acid (6-12 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 in natural folds.

Conclusion

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