Safety and Complications in Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty: A Systematic Review

Background: Lower blepharoplasty is one of the most commonly performed aesthetic procedures in the United States. Although lower blepharoplasty techniques have evolved significantly, it remains a considerable surgical challenge, associated with many aesthetic and functional complications. This review aimed to elucidate the safety and complication profiles of lower blepharoplasty. Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature was performed using PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases to identify studies that report the complication profiles of lower blepharoplasty techniques. Results: A total of 36 articles meeting inclusion criteria and critically evaluating lower blepharoplasty and its associated complications were analyzed and discussed. Conclusions: This review reports the overall safety and low complication profile associated with lower blepharoplasty. No major complications resulting in ocular and visual disturbances are reported, and the majority of complications resulting in functional and aesthetic concerns can be resolved with conservative management or revisionary surgery. More rigorous studies are needed to more critically assess and compare the various surgical techniques.