Under-Eye Fat Surgery: Repositioning for Stable Results

As we go about our busy daily lives, we can truly feel how quickly time passes. However, the passage of time also means growing older, so each additional year can bring a sense of regret and disappointment. It would be nice if we could live without worrying too much about aging, but the physical changes that become more noticeable with age make us realize that we are getting older. Since physical changes are something we experience directly, they naturally make us aware of aging.

In particular, aging of the skin under the eyes can cause previously firm elasticity to decrease, leading to sagging and wrinkles. Even if we try to accept these changes naturally, seeing them reflected in our appearance can still be bothersome and may become a source of insecurity. Among the facial features, the eyes are a key element of the face, so it is not an exaggeration to say that they influence the overall impression. Therefore, if the fat under the eyes has sagged or protrudes, people may think about what they can do and look for a solution.

• As we age, decreased elasticity under the eyes, wrinkles, and protruding fat may appear

• Changes under the eyes can contribute to a tired and older-looking appearance

• If these changes become a concern about one’s appearance, an appropriate improvement method can be explored

Usually, problems under the eyes can be covered with eye makeup products such as concealer, but if this alone is not enough or does not produce satisfactory results, surgery may be considered. One such method is under-eye fat surgery. Put simply, rather than removing the fat that protrudes beneath the eyes, this method moves and repositions it in an appropriate location. This may help improve protrusion, hollowing, and the appearance of dark circles at the same time, resulting in a brighter, more youthful-looking eye area.

• Expected effects of under-eye fat repositioning: The area under the eyes may appear smoother and more youthful.

• Adjustment according to each person’s eye condition: Depending on the amount of fat and degree of skin laxity, fat grafting or lower eyelid surgery may also be considered together.

You may wonder who is suitable for under-eye fat surgery. In simple terms, the benefits of under-eye fat treatment may be considered when the following symptoms are present:

• Deep, hollow tear troughs

• An overall tired-looking face due to severe dark circles

• Wanting improvement without naturally eliminating the lower eyelid fullness beneath the eyes

• Fat that protrudes beneath the eyes

The typical process for under-eye fat surgery can be summarized as follows. Before surgery, consultation and diagnostic evaluation are used to examine the individual’s eye condition, assess the current situation, and determine where the fat will be repositioned. SAC under-eye fat repositioning has characteristics that differ from commonly used methods. In conventional procedures, excessive fat removal may improve sagging, but it can have a higher risk of complications, such as prolonged swelling or damage to the underlying structure beneath the eyes. With SAC, however, the transparent membrane and fat pockets are opened, the fat is divided into smaller pieces, and it is moved and fixed in hollow areas.

• Conventional under-eye fat surgery: A method that addresses the problem by excessively removing fat beneath the eyes

• SAC-focused under-eye fat surgery: A method that improves the area under the eyes by dividing the existing fat and moving it to the necessary location to restore volume, rather than removing it

The key point of this SAC-focused method can be described as a procedure performed “stably while minimizing tissue damage.” It can be performed using a laser to reduce thermal damage, bleeding, swelling, and bruising. Because the wounds caused by the procedure are reduced, the recovery period may also be shortened, allowing stable results to be expected.

The laser used for SAC-focused under-eye fat surgery is the Encore Ultra Pulse. This device uses high-power technology to deliver high energy in a short period of time, while its deep penetration allows detailed improvement with minimal damage. The importance of the laser is particularly high because the skin around the eyes is especially sensitive.

The Encore laser is capable of high output, so the fat can be separated relatively easily with a single pass over the surgical area. In other words, because the laser does not need to be used repeatedly on the same area, the device may help reduce bleeding and swelling.

• High output means repeated passes are not necessary

• Its relatively deep skin penetration allows deep treatment with less damage

• It enables precise care for a stable procedure

The surgical method is important, but careful post-operative care is also important. It can significantly affect not only satisfaction with the results but also the risk of complications. Individual differences may occur because skin condition and the extent of surgery vary from person to person, but the following post-operative care may generally help shorten the recovery period.

Day of surgery to day 3: Care for bruising and swelling is important during this period.

Apply cold compresses carefully. Place a cold pack or ice pack lightly around the eyes, taking care not to press too firmly. Swelling is usually most severe around 2–3 days after surgery, after which it may gradually subside.

Day 4 to week 2 after surgery: After 3–4 days, you may switch to warm compresses.

Warm compresses can help promote blood circulation and allow minor swelling to subside naturally. From this point, you may also take a light shower or wash your face, while taking care not to get water into the surgical area.

After 2 weeks: By this time, much of the post-operative swelling will have subsided, and the tissue will begin to settle into place. It may take approximately 1–3 months for the area to become fully stable.

Skin care: Continue applying any prescribed ointment and restorative cream.

Sun protection: Block sunlight with a hat and sunglasses.

Exercise and activity: Take light walks or move gently rather than doing strenuous exercise.

Precautions to reduce the risk of complications and recurrence

▶ Do not lift heavy objects or rub your eyes.

▶ Avoid alcohol and smoking for approximately 4 weeks.

▶ Avoid hot baths and saunas.

This has provided a detailed overview of under-eye fat surgery and post-operative care. Remember that it is important to follow these guidelines carefully for a stable procedure and outcome.