Have you ever thought that a lower lid lift could be done without a skin incision and with minimal downtime? Puffy lower lids can age your face and make you appear exhausted. Scarless eyelid surgery removes under-eye bags through an incision inside your eyelid, leaving no visible marks. Dr. Ioannis Glavas offers this to Boston patients seeking smoother, refreshed eyes.
What Is Scarless Eyelid Surgery?
Transconjunctival eyelid surgery is an established surgical technique for the lower eyelids. It has been performed for many years with predictable results. Dr. Glavas has refined the technique and has been using it for many of his patients because of its advantages over the traditional external technique (using a blade).
The incision is performed using a laser or radiofrequency at the inside layer of the eye (conjunctiva). Then, blunt dissection is used to expose the fat, which is either vaporized with a laser or, in certain cases, repositioned.
Since there is no skin incision, the integrity of the eyelid support is not disrupted (let’s not forget that one of the eyelid’s functions is to support the eye). In addition, there is no skin scar and subsequently no risk for eyelid retraction or rounding of the eye (“sad eye”), especially if there is significant laxity of the lower lid to start with.
BEFORE AND AFTER
Before and After UPPER BLEPHAROPLASTY
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performed by Dr. Glavas in BOSTON, BEVERLY.MA, NEWYORK
Areas treated
Scarless eyelid surgery focuses on specific zones around the lower lids:
- Lower eyelids and under-eye fat pads
- Tear trough area, when combined with fat repositioning
- Midface region when the procedure is part of a comprehensive plan
Some patients benefit from pairing this surgery with non-invasive treatments, such as fillers or radiofrequency procedures like Agnes RF. These combinations can address both volume loss and skin texture to achieve complete lower eyelid rejuvenation.
Am I a Candidate?
You may be a good candidate for scarless eyelid surgery if you meet these criteria:
- You have under-eye bags caused by fat deposits rather than loose skin
- Your lower eyelid skin has good elasticity and minimal sagging
- You are in overall good health without conditions that impair healing
- You have realistic expectations about the outcome
If you have significant skin laxity or lower lid laxity, an external blepharoplasty may be a better option. Dr. Glavas evaluates your anatomy during your consultation to recommend the approach that fits your needs.
What to Expect from the Procedure
How it works
Dr. Glavas begins by administering local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia for your comfort. He then makes a small incision on the inner lining of your lower eyelid. This internal approach means no external cuts on your skin.
Using laser or radiofrequency tools, he carefully accesses the fat compartments beneath the lid. Depending on your anatomy and goals, he either removes excess fat or repositions it to fill the tear trough and create a smoother transition. The technique is tailored to your specific eyelid structure and concerns.
The incision typically requires minimal or no sutures because the conjunctival tissue heals naturally. The entire procedure usually takes one to two hours. You go home the same day with detailed aftercare instructions.
Treatment process
The process follows a clear path from your first visit to final results:
- Consultation – Dr. Glavas examines your lower eyelids, discusses your concerns, and determines if you are a good candidate.
- Surgical plan – He reviews the technique, anesthesia options, and what to expect on procedure day.
- Procedure day – You receive local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. The surgery usually takes one to two hours.
- Aftercare – You go home the same day with instructions for ice, rest, and activity limits.
- Follow-up – Dr. Glavas monitors your healing and checks your progress at scheduled visits.
Recovery Process
Most patients experience swelling and mild bruising for the first week. Some notice irritation or a gritty feeling in the eye during the early days. These effects are normal and typically resolve within one to two weeks.
You will need to avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and bending over for about two weeks. Many people return to work within one week, depending on their job and comfort level. Final results become visible once all swelling subsides, usually after several weeks.
Testimonials
“Dr Glavas was very professional, and treated my eye issue with ease. I would highly recommend him and his staff. If I ever have another issue with my eye I know exactly who to see!”
Benefits of Scarless Eyelid Surgery
So the major benefits of the transconjunctival lower lid blepharoplasty are:
- Lack of skin incision
- Preservation of the eye shape
- Shorter recovery time due to less bruising of the eyelid
- The use of cover-up foundation may be used without any restrictions since the skin is intact
- Typically allows for a faster return to daily activities
Combination procedures, including a sub-periorsteal midface lift or malar and tear trough implants, may be performed simultaneously using the same transconjunctival approach.
Cost of Scarless Eyelid Surgery in Boston
The cost of transconjunctival lower lid blepharoplasty varies based on the complexity of your case and whether you combine it with other procedures. Factors such as anesthesia, facility fees, and surgical technique influence the final price.
Dr. Glavas provides an exact quote during your consultation after assessing your needs. The Glavas Center accepts CareCredit and other financing options to help you manage payment.
Why Choose Dr. Ioannis Glavas for Scarless Eyelid Surgery
At the Glavas Center, Dr. Ioannis Glavas specializes in eyelid and oculofacial procedures for patients in Boston, MA, as well as Beverly and New York City. His practice focuses on both surgical and non-invasive eyelid treatments, enabling patients to receive personalized care for the eye area.
Dr. Glavas is a fellowship-trained oculofacial plastic surgeon with training in ophthalmology and reconstructive facial surgery. His background provides advanced knowledge of eyelid function, eye health, and facial structure, helping him perform procedures that improve eyelid appearance while preserving natural eye movement and support.
He performs a full range of eyelid procedures, including transconjunctival eyelid surgery, eyelid lifts, and cosmetic procedures, such as dermal fillers and radiofrequency therapies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the downtime?
Most patients return to work within one week. Swelling and bruising usually subside within one to two weeks.
Will I have a visible scar?
No, the incision is made inside the lower eyelid. There is no external scar on your skin.
Is the procedure painful?
You receive local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia during the surgery. Most patients report minimal discomfort afterward, which is managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
When will I see results?
You will notice improvement as swelling decreases over the first few weeks. Final results typically appear after several weeks once all swelling has resolved.
Can I combine this with other procedures?
Yes, many patients pair scarless eyelid surgery with fillers, radiofrequency treatments like Agnes RF, or fat transfer. Dr. Glavas can discuss combination options during your visit to address both volume loss and skin texture.
Who is not a good candidate?
Patients with significant skin laxity, lower lid laxity, or excessive wrinkling may benefit more from an external blepharoplasty. A consultation determines the best approach for your anatomy.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If under-eye bags are affecting your appearance, lower eyelid surgery can help you achieve a refreshed look with minimal visible scarring. Dr. Ioannis Glavas and his team at the Glavas Center, serving Boston, Beverly, and New York City, provide personalized care and advanced techniques for eyelid rejuvenation. Contact us today or fill out the online form to schedule your consultation to learn more about your options.