Swelling or Malar Bags/Festoons? (Photo)

Question

I had upper and lower Blepharoplasty (lower via transcutaneous incision) one month ago today. At my follow up appt I asked about these bags below my eyes. Doctor said it could still be residual swelling from surgery, or it might be Malar Bags or Festions. Is that what these darker colored puffy places are?? If so, can they be surgically removed or tightened? They are not as noticeable without makeup. Concealer and makeup seem to make them more obvious.

Brian S. Biesman, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Without more information about the details of the procedure performed and preoperative photographs it is difficult to answer your question.  I recommend discussing further with your surgeon.  If you choose to see another physician, they will most likely want to see your preoperative photographs and operative notes.  Best of luck.

Andrew Campbell, MD · Answer

By the looks of your photo, I'm guessing that you have a little bit of residual swelling that will improve over the next month or two. I would call this "malar edema" but that only means cheek swelling. If you had the swelling before the surgery, then it might not get better. If you did not have malar edema before the surgery, it should resolve. I'd discuss your concerns with your surgeon.Andrew Campbell, M.D.Facial Plastic SpecialistQuintessa Aesthetic Centers

Greg Chernoff, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You are one month into a one year healing course. Your swelling can fluctuate over time. Keep up communication with your surgeon. At one year a final evaluation can be done and any revisions/additions discussed then.Best wishes.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

This type of swelling can take several months to resolve.  When it does not resolve options include additional surgery or a chemical peel to tighten the relatively loose skin present in this area.

Deborah Sillins, MD · Answer

You are still very out from surgery. It takes 4-6 months for most of the swelling to subside.It not uncommon to get swelling in the malar fat pad from eyelid surgery. Sleep with your head elevated.

Swelling or Malar Bags/Festoons? (Photo)

Answers (9)