Under-eye Fat Repositioning vs. Lower Blepharoplasty vs. Fillers: Which Case Am I? | Apgujeong VAVA Plastic Surgery Explains

Have you ever been told you look tired or older due to under-eye fat?

In consultations, many people say, ‘I thought it was dark circles, but it turned out to be under-eye fat.’

So, how can you tell if your under-eyes require repositioning,

if lower blepharoplasty is the right choice, or if it can be simply corrected with fillers?

Today, the medical team at VAVA Plastic Surgery will summarize the key points for under-eye fat treatment.

What is Under-eye Fat Repositioning?

This surgery involves releasing the tear trough ligament and spreading the under-eye fat into the lower space, then fixing it in place.

When Under-eye Fat Repositioning is Needed

When you smile brightly, the area under your eyes often protrudes, creating shadows below it.

In such cases, simply removing the protruding fat is not enough; it needs to be repositioned to its proper place.

By evenly distributing the fat, spreading it downwards, you can naturally create a smooth under-eye line.

* Makes the eyelid appear shorter.

Changes in Aegyo-sal (Under-eye Fat Pad) After Under-eye Fat Repositioning

The previously indistinct boundary becomes flattened through repositioning,

and under-eye fat repositioning helps reveal the hidden aegyo-sal more prominently.

Septal Reinforcement

The membrane surrounding the fat pocket is called the orbital septum.

As we age, fat gradually decreases, and as the septum weakens, the pocket loses elasticity, causing fat to

protrude, making the under-eye area appear puffy. At this point, it is crucial to perform septal reinforcement (suspending the septum to the periosteum) simultaneously with under-eye fat repositioning.

This is particularly common in younger individuals, as their skin elasticity is still maintained,

and skin excision is not yet necessary.

When Lower Blepharoplasty is Needed

If skin elasticity and muscle support have weakened with age,

simply repositioning the fat will not solve the problem.

In such cases, lower blepharoplasty is necessary to fix the sagging skin and orbicularis oculi muscle to prevent further sagging.

Lower blepharoplasty is not just about dealing with fat;

it involves generally lifting the sagging tissues to create a younger and more defined impression.

When Fillers Are an Option

If under-eye fat protrusion is not severe and there is only slight hollowness,

it can be corrected with a simple filler injection.

However, fillers have limitations and a limited duration,

so it is important to accurately understand the difference from repositioning surgery and choose based on your individual condition.

Key Points for Under-eye Surgery Without Recurrence

Under-eye surgery is not simply about ‘just removing fat.’

Accurately assessing an individual's eye structure, skin condition, age, and degree of fat protrusion,

and taking a customized approach can minimize recurrence.

Based on years of experience, VAVA Plastic Surgery

systematically distinguishes between under-eye fat repositioning, lower blepharoplasty, and filler treatments,

and suggests the most suitable method for each patient.

Recovery Period

Under-eye fat repositioning does not require incisions, so there are no stitches to remove.

However, the tape applied for under-eye fixation can be self-removed 3-4 days after surgery,

and the general recovery period is approximately one month.

Improvement of Dark Circles

Many people ask if under-eye fat repositioning can improve dark circles;

the answer depends on the cause of the dark circles.

Shadows caused by fat protrusion → Improvement effect is possible.

Skin pigmentation (due to atopy, rhinitis, etc.) → Improvement is not possible.

Therefore, an accurate diagnosis based on the cause is crucial.

Duration of Results

The surgical results are permanent, but recurrence may gradually occur due to the aging process.

Conclusion

Many people are confused about their under-eye concerns, wondering, ‘Is repositioning right, or is lower blepharoplasty better?’

However, the important thing is not to blindly choose a specific surgery, but to accurately understand the condition of your eyes.

VAVA Plastic Surgery meticulously diagnoses each patient's eye shape,

and strives for the most natural and satisfactory results.

If you are concerned about under-eye fat, get a professional consultation at Apgujeong VAVA Plastic Surgery.

We will help you find the perfect solution for your eye shape.