Eyelid Surgery Blepharoplasty in Bryn Mawr & Philadelphia, PA

Main Line Plastic Surgery offers advanced eyelid surgery to our patients in Bryn Mawr and Philadelphia. Eyes are one of the first things people notice. If a person has sagging, droopy eyelids, they may appear older than they really are. Luckily, this problem can be solved by undergoing a blepharoplasty. Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Raymond Jean, uses the most advanced techniques to achieve the desired aesthetic results. After this surgery, patients feel younger, more vibrant, and satisfied with their appearance.

What Is Eyelid Surgery?

Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is a plastic surgery procedure that improves the appearance of the upper or lower eyelids. It aims to correct drooping eyelids or remove excess skin that may interfere with vision. The surgery reshapes the eyelid by removing or repositioning fat, muscle, and skin. Depending on the extent of the procedure, it can take one to three hours. The recovery time is usually around two weeks.

Types of Eyelid Surgery

Upper Eyelid Surgery

Upper eyelid surgery, also called upper blepharoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids. Common reasons for undergoing this operation include:

Reducing a “tired” appearance due to upper eyelid puffiness
Improving vision obstructed by excess upper eyelid skin
Balancing asymmetry between the eyes

During an upper blepharoplasty, incisions are made in the natural creases of the upper eyelids to access the underlying muscle and fat, which is then sculpted or redistributed. Excess skin can also be removed.

Lower Eyelid Surgery

Lower blepharoplasty corrects lower eyelids by removing excess skin, muscle, and fat. The main goals include:

Reduction of bags (puffiness under the eyes)
Smoothing circles (wrinkles under the eyes)
Eliminating hollowing (loss of volume under the eyes)
Tightening the lower eyelids.

Incisions for lower blepharoplasty can be made below the lower lashes or inside the lower eyelid, allowing access to remove excess fat, eliminate wrinkles, and tighten muscle and tissue. Recovery lasts 1-2 weeks with possible bruising and swelling.

Quad Blepharoplasty

A quad blepharoplasty combines procedures of both upper and lower blepharoplasties to treat all four eyelids simultaneously. It removes sagging skin, eliminates under-eye bags and circles, and tightens the area around the entire eye. Quad eyelid surgery achieves overall rejuvenation and symmetry. Because it involves operating on all four eyelids simultaneously, recovery may take longer than an isolated upper or lower blepharoplasty. There is typically more swelling and bruising with quad blepharoplasty due to the extensive reshaping around the eyes.

Types of Eyelid Incisions

Transcutaneous

The transcutaneous eyelid incision is made through the skin and orbicularis muscle (that surrounds the eyes), allowing direct access and visibility to the structures beneath. This cut allows for good exposure and access to the deeper tissues during eyelid surgery. The transcutaneous approach can lead to more visible scarring and a longer recovery. However, Dr. Jean places the incision within one of the natural skin creases of the eyelid to optimize the cosmetic outcomes.

Transconjunctival

The transconjunctival eyelid incision is made on the inside of the eyelid through the conjunctival mucosa (inner lining). This approach avoids any external skin incision. However, visibility and access can be more limited. The transconjunctival incision is commonly used for lower eyelid blepharoplasty to avoid an external scar. Healing time may be shorter with this technique.

Consultation & Preparation for Eyelid Surgery

During the initial consultation, Dr. Jean evaluates the patient’s eyelids, learns about their goals, reviews medical history, and determines if the individual is a good candidate for surgery. He also explains the realistic outcomes and risks associated with blepharoplasty. Before the operation, the patient may need to adjust the medications they take regularly and avoid certain supplements that increase bleeding risks.

Blood testing and an EKG can also be required to ensure that the person is healthy enough for surgery. The patient will be given detailed preoperative instructions on fasting, arrangements for a ride home after the procedure, and recovery assistance if needed. Careful planning before the surgery is vital for optimal results.

Consultation & Preparation for Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid Surgery Procedure

Anesthesia

Most upper eyelid surgery can be performed awake under local anesthesia in our office comfortably. Patients also have the option of oral sedative. For lower lid blepharoplasty most patients are fully asleep with general anesthesia. Our main priority is to keep the patient safe and comfortable.

Incisions

Blepharoplasty can be performed on either the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. When performed on the upper eyelids, a cut is made in the crease between the upper eyelids and brow. Lower blepharoplasty requires an incision along your lower lashes or on the inside of the lower eyelid.

Removal of Excess Skin, Fat, and Muscle

Dr. Jean removes or redistributes excess tissue. Eliminating fat pockets and trimming loose skin creates a more alert, youthful eye shape. For lower eyelid surgery, fat may be redistributed to reduce under-eye bags and hollowness

Incision Closure

Once the precise tissue adjustments are made, the surgeon closes the incisions with fine sutures. These stitches will either dissolve over time or be removed during a follow-up appointment. .

Add-On Procedures

Canthopexy

Canthopexy is commonly performed with eyelid lift surgery to provide additional support to the outer corners of the eyes. During a blepharoplasty, excess skin, muscle, and fat are removed from the upper and lower eyelids to rejuvenate the area and reduce the appearance of bags and wrinkles. However, this may sometimes cause the outer corners of the eyes to appear droopy afterward. By performing a canthopexy, Dr. Jean can reinforce the outer eye corners by tightening the canthal tendons that support the eyelids. This helps to counteract any new laxity that may occur after a blepharoplasty.

Brow Lift

Brow lift repositions the brows higher to provide an even more bright eyed looks when combined with blepharoplasty. Many patients with excess upper eyelid skin also have brow ptosis. This cosmetic surgery repositions the brows to provide a more youthful look. Brow lift is performed endoscopically in combination with upper lid blepharoplasty.

Recovery After Eyelid Surgery

The recovery period after eyelid surgery typically lasts 1-2 weeks. Immediately after the operation, patients should expect some swelling and bruising around the eyes that will worsen in the first 24-48 hours before gradually improving. Cold compresses can help reduce these symptoms in the initial days.

We also recommend wearing sunglasses whenever patients are outside, as their eyes will likely be more sensitive to sun exposure. If the eyes become dry, use over-the-counter eye drops to lubricate and moisten them. A non-prescription medication containing ibuprofen or acetaminophen can decrease headaches or other discomfort.

Patients may immediately notice some scarring, particularly after upper eyelid surgery. However, there is no need to worry – these traces will not always be as obvious as they are at first. As the tissues return to normal, the swelling will also decrease, and the scars will fade and reveal the final results. This can take anywhere from two to six weeks.

Candidates for Eyelid Surgery

Patients may consider eyelid surgery if they are bothered by sagging eyelids or notice that their makeup settles into the eyelid creases, making signs of aging even more prominent. To be a good candidate, they should not have any active eye infections or chronic conditions, such as dry eyes. Here are the most common characteristics of patients who can benefit from blepharoplasty:

Excess Skin and Fat on the Eyelids

People with droopy upper eyelids are the main candidates for eyelid surgery. Our cosmetic procedures can remove the excess tissue and tighten the area around the eyes, creating a more alert and youthful appearance.

Prominent Fat Pads

Individuals with prominent fat pads around the lower eyelids may benefit from lower blepharoplasty surgery. Removing the fat pads can help reduce the puffy or baggy look under the eyes.

Good Skin Elasticity

The best candidates for cosmetic eyelid surgery typically have good skin elasticity. This characteristic allows the remaining skin to redrape smoothly over the area after excess tissue has been removed. Skin that lacks elasticity may not heal as well after surgery.

Realistic Expectations

It’s important for people considering eyelid surgery to have realistic expectations about the procedure. While this treatment can rejuvenate the area around the eyes, some signs of aging will still remain. Having realistic expectations helps patients be satisfied with their surgical results.

Benefits of Eyelid Surgery

Blepharoplasty can significantly improve facial appearance. This procedure has become increasingly popular over the last ten years because it helps people look more rested and youthful. Here are the main benefits of eyelid surgery:

Removes sagging skin that droops over the natural contour of the eyes
Eliminates under-eye bags and puffiness
Tightens loose skin on the upper eyelids
Makes eyes appear larger, wider, and more open
Results in a more refreshed and rejuvenated appearance
Boosts self-confidence for many patients
Can provide a solution for improving vision
Quick recovery time with long-lasting results
Can be performed on both upper and lower eyelids
Can be combined with other facial procedures

Cost of Eyelid Surgery in Philadelphia

The cost of eyelid surgery in Bryn Mawr and Philadelphia ranges from $4,500 to $9,500. Several factors influence the overall price, including the surgeon’s experience and credentials, the extent of the procedure, and additional fees for operating room and anesthesia. To get a high-quality blepharoplasty, Philadelphia and Bryn Mawr residents have to study many different options and spend a lot of time selecting the best one. This can be very time-consuming and frustrating at times.

You can look no further because Main Line Plastic Surgery embodies all of the best aspects – a board-certified plastic surgeon, top-level care, friendly staff, and competitive prices. To get an accurate cost estimate, schedule a consultation with Dr. Jean. Our office is open Monday to Friday: 8 am – 5 pm.

What Makes Our Facial Plastic Surgery Different From Others?

Patients looking for eyelid surgery will find an experienced, talented plastic surgeon, Dr. Raymond Jean, at Main Line Plastic Surgery. He is board-certified and has extensive training in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Dr. Jean provides each patient with a customized treatment plan to address their unique goals and concerns. His commitment to research has inspired him to adopt advanced techniques and innovative technology to make every procedure perfect. We always ensure that patients feel comfortable and safe at each step of their transformative journey.

What our patients are saying

Dr Jean has the surgeon trifecta! He is knowledgeable and skilled and has an amazing, kind bedside manner. He takes his time to explain procedures and options so you are comfortable. Lynn is super organized, caring, and helpful especially with the financial options. I would 100% recommend this office because of their care and expertise!!

"I must say I am only 8 days post op and my family members are already unbelievably surprised by my tummy tuck results. I know someone who did her tummy tuck 1 month ago and is now wishing she had gone with Dr. Jean instead. Lynn, you are absolutely amazing and the entire office made me feel like a person and not just another patient. Dr. Jean and staff are accessible and I could not have asked for better treatment. I absolutely love my results so far and can’t wait to see what the next few weeks hold in store as I continue to heal. Thank you guys!!"

Such an amazing office with amazing staff! I had a tummy tuck in June. Every step of the way has made me feel so taken care of and comfortable. And so certain of my decision! Kristin is the ultimate hype girl, love her! Dr. Jean and his staff are absolute angels in every way. And the icing on the cake is I couldn’t be any more in love with my body. Dr. Jean did such an amazing job, I can hardly believe when I look in the mirror! I cannot recommend Main Line enough.

I must say I am only 8 days post op and my family members are already unbelievably surprised by my tummy tuck results. I know someone who did her tummy tuck 1 month ago and is now wishing she had gone with Dr. Jean instead. Lynn, you are absolutely amazing and the entire office made me feel like a person and not just another patient. Dr. Jean and staff are accessible and I could not have asked for better treatment. I absolutely love my results so far and can’t wait to see what the next few weeks hold in store as I continue to heal. Thank you guys!!