The problem

After blepharoplasty that involved the reduction of bulging fat pouches, there is a residual bulge. This most often ocurrs at the outer corner of the lower eyelid, at the location of the lateral fat pad. This can create a contour irregularity or a mismatch with the other regions of the eyelid.

However, not all fat around the eyelids needs to be removed. Frequently a bulge is seen because the surrounding areas are lacking fat.

Causes of leftover eyelid fat

Reduction of the lateral fat pad of the lower eyelid can be more technically challenging during blepharoplasty when the incision is made behind the eyelid (transconjunctival). This is one reason that leftover fat pouches are more common at the outer corner of the lower eyelids.

Unrecognized or untreated hollowing or lack of fat below the lower eyelid and in the cheeks can be another cause of what appears to be a residual fat pad.

Often seen with

Facial fat atrophy, thin skin, aging.

Not to be confused with

Swelling after blepharoplasty which may last weeks to months, or a pronounced eyelid muscle roll.

What you see in the mirror

A bulge of fat that is out of proportion with other parts of the eyelid.