Hello! I am Airi Yokoyama, a cosmetic surgeon and dermatologist.
“I want to have dark circles removed, but I’m worried it will interfere with work and my schedule.”
What is concerning is the downtime after fat removal, right? Here, “fat removal” refers to the removing of orbital fat that causes puffiness and dark circles under the eyes through transconjunctival blepharoplasty.
The appeal is that there are no visible scars on the surface and the recovery period is relatively short, but there is still the possibility of swelling and bruising.
This time, I will provide detailed information about the downtime of fat removal, including estimated duration, progression, and how to spend that time.
What is fat removal?
Transconjunctival blepharoplasty is a procedure that approaches from the backside of the lower eyelid (the conjunctival side) to remove excess fat.
It is recommended for those who want to improve tiredness and aging around the eyes.
It often naturally enhances the tear trough area as well. Since it does not involve an external incision, there are no visible scars.
It is effective for improving puffiness-type dark circles where orbital fat has protruded and is often chosen by individuals in their 20s to 40s who have little skin sagging. (For those with significant skin sagging or pronounced tear trough hollows, the Hamra technique is recommended.)
Downtime
Downtime refers to the period after the procedure when there may be potential disruptions to daily life or outings.
For transconjunctival blepharoplasty, the estimates are as follows
・Swelling: Approximately 2 to 7 days (with the peak being from the next day to day 3)
・Internal bleeding: 0 to 2 weeks (might not appear)
・Pain: Mild to almost none
・Resume makeup: The next day to a few days later (depending on the doctor’s judgment) Recovery is relatively quick, but there are individual differences, and it may take longer depending on constitution and the area treated.
Progress during downtime
Post-surgery to day 1
・Swelling is likely due to the effects of anesthesia and irritation from the incision.
・Mild pressure and a sensation of discomfort in the eyes may be felt.
・Increased eye discharge.
Days 2-3
・Peak of swelling.
・If bruising occurs, the color will become darker during this period.
Days 4-7
・Swelling and redness gradually decrease, and bruising turns yellowish.
・It often becomes manageable enough to cover with makeup.
1-2 weeks later
・Appearance appears almost natural.
・Easy to resume exercise and bathing during this period.
How to shorten downtime
・Cool the area: Gently cool the eye with ice packs on the day of the procedure.
・Sleep with your head elevated: To prevent puffiness around the eyes.
・Avoid irritation: Do not rub or do strong massages.
・Limit alcohol and exercise: Improved blood circulation can prolong swelling.
・Low-salt diet: Helps prevent swelling.
Benefits and Precautions
Benefits
・No scars left on the surface.
・Recovery is quick, making it easier to return to work and daily life.
・Long-lasting effects.
Precautions
・If there is significant skin sagging, fine wrinkles may become noticeable post-surgery.
・There is a possibility of depression appearing due to fat reduction.
・Swelling and Internal bleeding can vary significantly from person to person.
Planning for Downtime
Although downtime is relatively short, if you have important events or plans to appear in front of people, it is recommended to schedule with at least a two-week buffer. Internal bleeding and swelling may also linger.
Summary
The downtime for fat removal is relatively short, and swelling and internal bleeding often recover quickly enough to be concealed with makeup. However, as individual conditions vary, it cannot be guaranteed that recovery will be completed in a certain number of days. By allowing extra time in your schedule and carefully attending to post-operative care, a smoother recovery can be expected.
If you are concerned about a tired appearance or puffiness around the eyes, please feel free to consult with us. Only counseling is also warmly welcomed.
【Profile】
Cosmetic Surgeon/ Dermatologist
Dr. Airi Yokoyama
https://biancaclinic.jp/doctor/yokoyama/
She aspired to become a doctor since her early years and she studied at Hiroshima University, Faculty of Medicine.
She began her career in general medical care and eventually chose to pursue aesthetic medicine, aiming to enrich patients life through beauty. She has always focused on natural beauty through cosmetic dermatology, but in order to address specific concerns around the eye area she began to perform surgical procedures as well.
Previously, she was involved in establishing a clinic and worked as a director for three years as a cosmetic dermatologist, examining the skin and faces of approximately 20,000 patients and contributing to the clinic’s growth.
Having experience as a clinic director and three overseas study programs, her goal is to provide beauty care to international patients with safe and high quality treatments.
Dr. Airi is fluent in Japanese and English language.
Her speciality in aesthetic medicine includes: Anti-aging care, Injection, Sagging face treatments, Skin rejuvenating boosters, Skin treatments.
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Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/dr.airi
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At BIANCA, we redefine beauty care by offering a holistic approach that transcends traditional cosmetic surgery and dermatology.
20 specialized doctors in different fields including plastic surgery, dermatology, internal medicine, regenerative medicine, gynecology will carefully listen to your needs and help you to enhance your beauty and wellness from the inside out.
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