Choosing to rejuvenate your under eyes with lower blepharoplasty Cape Town (lower eyelid surgery) is a big decision, and the more informed you are going in, the more confident you will feel. This guide will go through each phase of this - from deciding on surgery to recovery - in order to educate you on what to expect throughout this journey.

1. The Decision & Your Why

It starts when you observe the signs: bulging under your eyes, puffiness, sagging skin, or hollowing in your tear troughs. These are all common signs of aging, sun damage, genetics or lifestyle influenced. Many patients in Cape Town, Australia choose to have eyelid surgery Cape Town because of the surgeons who are experienced in correcting these changes and providing you with a refreshed and natural appearance is important. Your “why” may be aesthetic, functional or both! And that’s okay. 

2. Your First Consultation

This is where you make a partnership with your surgeon. Your appointment will start with populating specific forms about your medical history, specific background related to your eyes, medications you are taking, previous surgeries you may have had, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and sun exposure. The surgeon will the introduce themselves, and explain how they would perform your surgery (such as transconjunctival or transcutaneous). They will also review before/after photos from patients whose surgery they performed. They will assess your eyelids, skin quality, fat bulges, cheek support (to name some things). They may take photos as part of the planning.

3. Which Technique & What’s Involved

• Transconjunctival: incision on the inside of the lower eyelid; no visible outside scar. Perfect when the excess skin is minor.
• Sub-lash / skin incision: incision is made just under the lower lash line, in order to remove or tighten the excess skin.
• For either method, fat may be removed: repositioned or redistributed in order to provide smoothing transitions. YourEyelids / Alchimia Clinic surgeons will customize the method based on your anatomy. Surgery is typically outpatient, and takes approximately 1-2 hours.

4. Costs & Clinic Trends in Cape Town

• In Cape Town, eyelid surgery Cape Town (upper + lower), is typically in the price range of R 45,000 - R 60,000 depending on the surgeon, anesthesia, facility fees etc.
• YourEyelids have "WhatsApp for pricing" for lower blepharoplasty - because it is customized to the patient.
• May offer payment plans by some other clinics such as Dr Deon Weyers where a 60% deposit may be required for a date to be secured.

5. Preparing for Surgery

• Stop using tobacco for a few weeks before
• Please avoid any aspirin, anti-inflammatories, and certain supplements
• Have basic eye exams or lab tests, if needed
• Set up transportation, and an additional person, if possible, even an Uber for you
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing on surgery day 
• Follow any other specific clinic instructions to prepare.

6. Post-Op & Recovery

• Bruising and swelling will peak within the first three days.
• Use cold compresses in the first 24 hours and keep your head elevated.
• Incision sites must remain dry for ~48 hours and then may be gently cleansed.
• Sutures are usually removed between the 6th and 10th day post-op.
• Avoid eye makeup for ~2 weeks.
• Avoid vigorous activity, bending, or lifting for ~two weeks.
• Most individuals return to their routine (less strenuous) in 7–10 days; full recovery may take 4–6 weeks after your procedure.
• Wear sunscreen and sunglasses while avoiding direct sunlight to protect healing skin. 

7. Risks - Real Talk

• All surgery carries risk. With lower blepharoplasty - things to consider might include the following areas of risk:
• Lower eyelid malposition (too tight, or pulled down)
• Eye asymmetry
• Noticeable scarring (this is rare, particularly with internal incisions)
• Bleeding, or hematoma (rare)
• Infection
• Altered sensation (or numbness) (temporary, improvements are possible)
• Being disappointed in the outcome (likely due to unrealistic expectations)
• Experienced surgeons talk about these concerns and make every effort to minimize issues in advance.

8. Questions You MUST Ask Before You Move Forward

• Which technique is best for my features, and why?
• If I have to have incisions - where will they be, and visible from where?
• Can I see before/after photos of patients WITH similar features?
• What is your complication rate, and how will you handle complications?
• How many follow-up visits will I have?
• What out of my quote includes all the potential charges?

9. Why Cape Town & Why Your Eyelids Are Important

Cape Town is known for having a very high standard of aesthetic and oculoplastic care, thanks to modern clinics and surgeons that have a wealth of experience. At Your Eyelids / Alchimia Clinic they have an emphasis on lower blepharoplasty Cape Town and eyelid surgery that integrates art and precision. Their process is patient-focused, transparent and individually tailored so that you feel informed and taken care of every step of the way. 

Conclusion

Lower blepharoplasty can give you a fresh, subtle increase to your under-eyes, and balance a rested, refreshed appearance. If you have the right information, realistic expectations, and a surgeon to facilitate, you are well on your way to a beautiful and natural result.