
Eye bags are a common cosmetic concern that can make people look tired or older than they feel. While topical creams and at-home remedies may offer temporary relief, many people seek long-term solutions. Cosmetic surgery in Melbourne offers effective options for those looking to remove eye bags permanently.
Eye bag surgery, also known as lower blepharoplasty, targets the puffiness and sagging skin beneath the eyes. This article explains how the procedure works, who it’s for, and what results you can expect when choosing cosmetic surgery as your solution for how to remove eye bags permanently.
Contents
Understanding What Causes Eye Bags
Ageing and Skin Elasticity

As we age, the tissues and muscles supporting the eyelids weaken. Fat that normally supports the eyes can shift forward into the lower eyelids, creating puffiness. In addition, skin loses elasticity and begins to sag, which further contributes to the appearance of bags under the eyes.
Genetics and Lifestyle Factors
Some individuals are more prone to developing eye bags due to hereditary traits. Other contributing factors may include:
- Poor sleep habits
- High salt intake
- Smoking
- Allergies
- Sun damage
These factors can worsen the puffiness or discolouration under the eyes but are generally not the root cause when it comes to persistent eye bags.
What Is Eye Bag Surgery?
The Lower Blepharoplasty Procedure
Lower blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgery designed to remove or reposition fat, tighten skin, and improve the contour under the eyes. The goal is a refreshed, youthful appearance without overcorrection or a “hollowed” look.
Surgeons typically perform the procedure under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the extent of the work.
Types of Eye Bag Surgery
- Traditional lower blepharoplasty – involves a small incision just below the lower lash line to remove or reposition fat and tighten loose skin.
- Transconjunctival blepharoplasty – the incision is made inside the lower eyelid, allowing fat removal without visible scarring. This method is ideal for younger patients with good skin elasticity.
- Fat repositioning or grafting – instead of removing the fat, the surgeon redistributes it to smooth the transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Assessing Suitability for Surgery
The best candidates for lower eyelid surgery include:
- Individuals with puffy under-eye bags that do not respond to non-surgical treatments
- Patients in good general health
- Non-smokers or those willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
- People with realistic expectations about results and recovery
A consultation at a cosmetic surgery clinic in Melbourne can determine if you’re suitable for this procedure.
Benefits of Eye Bag Surgery
Permanent Results
Unlike creams or fillers, eye bag surgery offers a permanent solution. Once the excess fat is removed or repositioned, and the skin is tightened, the results typically last for many years.
Minimal Scarring
Surgeons use discreet incision techniques to ensure minimal scarring. In some cases, no external incision is visible at all.
Natural Appearance
Experienced cosmetic surgeons focus on subtle enhancements that rejuvenate your appearance while maintaining natural facial harmony.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Before Surgery
Before the operation, your surgeon will:
- Take a full medical history
- Examine your facial anatomy
- Discuss your expectations and goals
- Take pre-operative photographs
You may also receive instructions to avoid certain medications and supplements that increase bleeding risk.
During Surgery
On the day of your procedure:
- Anaesthesia will be administered
- The surgeon will make precise incisions to access the under-eye fat and skin
- Fat may be removed or redistributed
- The skin may be tightened, and incisions will be closed with fine sutures
The surgery usually takes between 1 and 2 hours.
Recovery Timeline
- First few days: Swelling and bruising are common. Cold compresses and keeping the head elevated can reduce swelling.
- 1 week: Most patients return to light activities. Sutures may be removed.
- 2 weeks: Bruising generally subsides. Many patients feel confident enough to return to work and social events.
- 4–6 weeks: Final results become visible as swelling fully resolves.
Risks and Considerations
Potential Complications
As with any surgery, there are risks involved, including:
- Infection
- Dry eyes or irritation
- Temporary blurred vision
- Scarring (though usually minimal)
- Unsatisfactory results (in rare cases)
Choosing a qualified surgeon with extensive experience in lower eyelid procedures helps reduce these risks.
Choosing the Right Cosmetic Surgery Clinic in Melbourne
What to Look For
When researching clinics, look for:
- Surgeons registered with the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
- Clinics with a strong portfolio of before-and-after results
- Positive patient testimonials
- Clinics offering in-person consultations
Ensure that the facility is fully accredited and has a reputation for safety and professionalism.
Questions to Ask Your Surgeon

- What technique do you recommend for my case?
- What kind of anaesthesia will be used?
- What is the recovery process like?
- Can I see before-and-after photos of previous patients?
- How often do you perform this procedure?
These questions will help you feel more confident in your decision.
Non-Surgical Alternatives
Temporary Solutions
If you are not ready for surgery, some non-surgical options include:
- Dermal fillers to smooth the transition between the eyelid and cheek
- Laser skin resurfacing to improve skin tone
- Radiofrequency or ultrasound-based skin tightening
These options can improve the appearance temporarily but will not remove fat deposits or loose skin permanently.
Conclusion
For those seeking how to remove eye bags permanently, cosmetic surgery offers a reliable, long-lasting solution. Lower blepharoplasty can significantly improve your appearance by eliminating puffiness and smoothing under-eye contours.
Choosing a reputable clinic for cosmetic surgery in Melbourne and working with a qualified surgeon ensures safe and satisfying results. While non-surgical treatments have their place, only surgery can provide a permanent fix for under-eye bags that persist despite creams, sleep, or lifestyle changes.
If you’ve been considering a more youthful and refreshed appearance, eye bag surgery may be the right step forward.