Lower Eyelid Correction – Removing Bags Under the Eyes & Tightening the Lower Eyelid.

The eye area determines whether a face looks alert and well-rested—or tired and worn out. Eye bags result from the natural loss of skin elasticity and fat tissue under the eyes—often genetically determined, frequently age-related. Anyone who looks exhausted in the mirror every morning despite getting enough sleep isn’t suffering from poor skincare, but from an anatomical change that cannot be corrected with conservative treatments.

I am Dr. Juliane Bodo, a board-certified specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery in Berlin-Charlottenburg. Lower eyelid correction—medically known as blepharoplasty—is one of those procedures where experience and a delicate touch are crucial. The lower eyelid is thin, its structure is complex, and the result must look natural—without altering facial expressions.

Procedure and Methods

Before the procedure, we’ll have a detailed consultation during which I’ll assess the anatomy of the eye area, discuss your goals, and determine the appropriate technique. During this consultation, I’ll also evaluate whether a combined upper and lower eyelid correction is advisable.

Lower eyelid surgery is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia with twilight sedation or, if desired, under general anesthesia. The procedure takes about 60 minutes. Depending on the findings, I choose between two proven surgical approaches:

Subciliary Approach (below the lash line): Suitable for cases of excess skin and fatty tissue. The scar runs directly below the lashes and is barely visible once healed.

Transconjunctival approach (Inside of the eyelid): Suitable for cases of excess fat without sagging skin. No external incision, no visible scar.

With both techniques, I attach the eye muscle to the periosteum of the eye socket—this prevents ectropion (an outward-turning lower eyelid) and ensures a stable, long-lasting result. After a brief observation period, you can go home the same day.

Alternative without surgery: If you have a tear trough without pronounced under-eye bags, injections of hyaluronic acid or autologous fat may be sufficient. We’ll discuss whether this option is right for you during your consultation.

Preparation for the procedure

• Stop blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen) at least ten days in advance
• From midnight before the procedure: no food, no liquids
• Do not wear contact lenses on the day of surgery
• Quit nicotine at least two weeks beforehand – smoking impairs wound healing
• Arrange for someone to accompany you home—do not drive yourself after twilight sedation or general anesthesia

Aftercare & Healing

• Cooling: Apply gentle cooling pads to the eye area during the first few days—this minimizes swelling
• Sleeping: Position the upper body slightly elevated to promote lymphatic drainage
• Stitch Removal: After about 7 days at my clinic
• Socially acceptable After 7–10 days
• Sports, Sauna, Tanning Bed: Avoid for at least two weeks
• Makeup and creams: Apply to the scar only after receiving medical clearance
• Sunglasses: Protects against UV radiation and mechanical irritation during the first few weeks

The final result will be visible after a few weeks, once all the swelling has completely subsided.

Risks & Potential Complications

Lower eyelid surgery is considered a safe, standardized procedure with a very low risk of complications. Possible side effects include:

• Swelling and Bruising: Normal during the first few days; they subside quickly
• Mild pain: Responds well to pain medication
• Wound-healing disorders: Rare—minimized through careful technique and follow-up care
• Post-operative bleeding: Possible in rare cases
• Ectropion (eyelid turned outward): Very rare—this is specifically prevented by securing the muscle to the periosteum

I will discuss all risks with you in detail during a personal consultation prior to the procedure.

Cost of Lower Eyelid Surgery in Berlin-Charlottenburg

• Starting at €3,900 for outpatient treatment, plus anesthesia costs
• For combined upper and lower eyelid surgery, the cost increases accordingly

During the personal consultation in my private clinic, I will create a treatment plan tailored to your situation with a clear cost breakdown.

A lower eyelid lift can positively transform your overall appearance—without affecting your facial expressions. Come in for a no-obligation consultation at my private clinic in Berlin. Together, we’ll find the right approach to restore an open, lively, and youthful look to your eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lower Eyelid Lifts.