Please note: Kliniek het Bolwerk does not carry out this treatment
The transconjunctival approach is a surgical technique used in lowereyelid surgery, to treat eye bags. This technique is not performed at Kliniek het Bolwerk.
When a transconjunctival approach is being considered, assessment and any treatment take place at another clinic or hospital that specialises in surgical eyelid corrections and facial treatments.
What is the transconjunctival approach?
The transconjunctival approach is a method in which the surgeon gains access to the underlying structures, such as fat pads, through the inside of the eyelid. This technique is mainly used in lower eyelid surgery (lower blepharoplasty) to remove or adjust eye bags without making an external incision. This makes the procedure less invasive and results in no visible scars on the skin of the eyelid.
How does the transconjunctival approach work?
In a transconjunctival approach, the surgeon makes a small incision on the inside of the lower eyelid, in the conjunctiva. Through this incision excess fat can be removed or redistributed to correct the eye bags. Because the incision is made on the inside of the eyelid, there are no visible scars on the outside of the eye. This approach is particularly suitable for patients with good skin elasticity, because no skin is removed. The procedure can be performed under local or general anaesthetic and usually has a relatively short recovery time.
What are the benefits of the transconjunctival approach?
The transconjunctival approach offers several benefits, including:
- No visible scars: Because the incision is made on the inside of the eyelid, no external scars are visible.
- Less invasive: The technique is less drastic than traditional eyelid corrections performed through an external incision.
- Faster recovery: Patients often experience less swelling and a shorter recovery time compared with more traditional methods.
- Natural results: The procedure can help create a smooth and natural transition from the lower eyelid to the cheek, without the need to remove skin.
When is the transconjunctival approach suitable?
The transconjunctival approach is particularly suitable for younger patients or patients with relatively firm skin who have fat deposits under the eyes, but no excess skin that needs to be removed. It is an ideal choice for patients looking for a subtle and effective correction of eye bags without visible scars. Patients with significant excess skin or sagging skin, however, may benefit more from a traditional approach in which skin is also removed.
The difference between the transconjunctival approach and other eyelid surgery techniques
The main difference between the transconjunctival approach and other eyelid surgery techniques lies in the location of the incision. In the transconjunctival approach the incision is made on the inside of the eyelid, whereas in traditional approaches the incision is made on the outside of the eyelid, just below the lash line. This makes the transconjunctival approach more suitable for patients who do not need skin removal and are looking for a procedure without visible scars.
Risks and considerations
Although the transconjunctival approach is considered a safe procedure, as with any surgical procedure there are risks involved. Possible complications include infection, bleeding, temporary swelling or irregularities in the shape of the eyelid. Because no skin is removed, this technique may be less suitable for patients with loose or excess skin. A thorough evaluation by an experienced eye surgeon is essential to determine whether the transconjunctival approach is the right choice for the patient.
Conclusion
The transconjunctival approach is an effective and less invasive technique for correcting eye bags without visible scars. This approach offers an excellent option for patients looking for subtle improvements with a fast recovery time and natural results. However, it is important to choose the most suitable treatment method together with a qualified surgeon, based on the specific needs and characteristics of the patient.
