• Home
• Surgery
• Face
• Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty

RESTORE A MORE OPEN, YOUTHFUL, AND ALERT EYE APPEARANCE

BLEPHAROPLASTY: UNLOCK BRIGHT, BEAUTIFUL EYES

BENEFITS OF BLEPHAROPLASTY

WHEN TO CONSIDER EYELID REJUVENATION

OUR APPROACH TO UPPER AND LOWER BLEPHAROPLASTY PROCEDURES

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that rejuvenates the eye area by removing or repositioning excess skin, fat, and tissue from the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. At Cross Medical Group in Philadelphia and Villanova, blepharoplasty patients can undergo customized surgery designed to reduce drooping eyelids, under-eye bags, and tired-looking eyes while creating a refreshed, natural appearance.

BLEPHAROPLASTY BASICS

Blepharoplasty is a form of cosmetic surgery that is designed to remove excess skin as well as reposition tissues to “tighten up” drooping eyelids. It is commonly done for cosmetic reasons, but blepharoplasty can also address sagging lids that intrude into a patient's field of vision. Blepharoplasty smooths, lifts, and rejuvenates the delicate eye area.

Blepharoplasty at a Glance

BLEPHAROPLASTY: UNLOCK BRIGHT, BEAUTIFUL EYES

An important concept to understand when considering blepharoplasty is that eyelids that look older or more tired often look this way for a combination of reasons. Not only do youthful eyes have a minimal amount of extra skin, but they typically also have good volume. Since the face loses fat, thins, and sags over time, the eye area loses much of this volume as it ages.

Too often, surgeons performing eyelid surgery procedures remove fat and skin, but don't recognize the importance of restoring youthful volume. Dr. Cross feels that achieving the optimal result for blepharoplasty must include customizing the procedure to the individual patient's anatomy and needs.

Blepharoplasty may be performed on the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both upper and lower. Likewise, it may be performed on the left eye, the right eye, or both. The goal is to restore a more alert and rested look, improve the field of vision if necessary, and give the entire face a more balanced and symmetrical look.

BENEFITS OF BLEPHAROPLASTY

Blepharoplasty can refresh the appearance of the eyes by addressing common signs of aging, including excess skin, eyelid heaviness, and under-eye concerns. By customizing the procedure to each patient’s anatomy and goals, eyelid surgery can help create a more balanced, youthful, and rested appearance.

Benefits of blepharoplasty may include:

• Reducing excess skin on the upper eyelids
• Improving hooded, heavy, or drooping eyelids
• Minimizing under-eye bags and puffiness
• Restoring smoother, more youthful eyelid contours
• Creating a more rested, alert appearance
• Improving facial balance and symmetry
• Expanding peripheral vision when excess upper eyelid skin affects sight
• Achieving long-lasting facial rejuvenation with natural-looking results

For patients with concerns about tired-looking eyes, drooping eyelids, or age-related changes around the eyes, blepharoplasty can provide a refreshed appearance while maintaining the unique characteristics of the face.

WHEN TO CONSIDER EYELID REJUVENATION

Blepharoplasty may be a good option for patients with drooping eyelids, hooded eyes, excess eyelid skin, under-eye bags, or a tired-looking appearance. The best treatment depends on the cause of eyelid aging, which may include loose skin, changes in brow position, or weakened forehead and brow muscles. Dr. Kevin Cross and Dr. Jackie Lyons evaluate your facial anatomy and goals to determine whether eyelid surgery or another procedure is the right choice.

There is no specific age requirement for blepharoplasty. Some patients choose surgery due to age-related changes, while others pursue treatment earlier because of naturally hooded or heavy eyelids. Ideal candidates are generally healthy, non-smokers with realistic expectations.

You may benefit from blepharoplasty if you experience:

• Drooping or heavy upper eyelids
• Hooded eyelids or excess skin
• Under-eye bags or puffiness
• A tired or fatigued appearance
• Vision obstruction caused by sagging eyelid skin

A consultation with Dr. Cross or Dr. Lyons is the best way to determine if blepharoplasty is right for you.

OUR APPROACH TO UPPER AND LOWER BLEPHAROPLASTY PROCEDURES

UPPER EYELID BLEPHAROPLASTY

When preparing for blepharoplasty, Dr. Cross and Dr. Lyons always begin the evaluation by examining the position of the eyebrows. Over time, the brows can drift downward and rotate at the outer edges, causing skin to drape over the upper eyelids. This creates a hooded appearance that many patients mistake as purely an eyelid issue. In these cases, a brow lift may be necessary in combination with blepharoplasty to achieve the best results. Our surgeons outline several hooded eye surgery techniques that can elevate the brows and enhance the outcome of blepharoplasty. Ignoring the brow's impact can leave residual heaviness, even after the eyelids have been addressed surgically.

Not every patient requires blepharoplasty to rejuvenate the eye area. For mild concerns, we may recommend non-surgical options like chemical peels, lasers, or volume restoration with fillers or a patient’s own fat. These treatments can be powerful on their own or used to complement blepharoplasty for a more complete result.

When there is significant sagging skin or bulging fat in the upper eyelids, blepharoplasty is often the most effective solution. The incision is placed within the natural crease of the eyelid, so it becomes virtually undetectable once healed. From this discreet location, your surgeon will remove excess skin and sculpt the fat pads that commonly shift forward with age. By refining these areas through upper blepharoplasty, we restore a smoother, more youthful contour to the eyes.

LOWER EYELID BLEPHAROPLASTY

Dr. Cross often points out that one hallmark of a youthful face is the smooth transition between the lower eyelids and the cheeks. In younger individuals, this area flows together so naturally that it's hard to distinguish where the eyelid ends and the cheek begins. With age, however, the lower eyelid can become longer, more hollow, and shadowed. Wrinkles increase, the skin loses its firmness, and a noticeable divide forms between the eyelid and cheek. This contrast can make the face appear tired or drawn. In such cases, lower blepharoplasty can be an excellent option for restoring a smoother, more refreshed appearance.

It can address concerns such as:

• Under-eye bags and puffiness
• Lower eyelid skin laxity
• Hollowing beneath the eyes
• Shadows caused by volume loss
• An uneven transition between the lower eyelid and cheek

Dr. Cross and Dr. Lyons evaluate each patient’s anatomy to determine whether surgery or a non-surgical approach is the best option. For some patients, treatments such as laser resurfacing, chemical peels, dermal fillers, or fat transfer can improve skin quality and restore lost volume without surgery.

When lower blepharoplasty is recommended, the procedure is customized to each patient’s needs. Surgeons may use a hidden incision inside the lower eyelid or a discreet incision beneath the lash line to remove or reposition fat, tighten loose skin, and refine the lower eyelid contour. Fat transfer may also be used to restore volume in hollow areas, creating a softer and more youthful appearance.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR BLEPHAROPLASTY

Before eyelid surgery, Dr. Cross or Dr. Lyons will review your medical history, including previous surgeries, current health conditions, and any medications or supplements you take. During your consultation, they will discuss your aesthetic goals, evaluate your eyelid concerns, and determine whether blepharoplasty is the right treatment option for your needs.

To support a safe procedure and smooth recovery, patients may be advised to:

• Stop taking aspirin, blood thinners, or anti-inflammatory medications that may increase bruising or bleeding, if medically appropriate
• Avoid smoking, as nicotine can interfere with healing
• Arrange for a friend or family member to drive them home after surgery and provide overnight support

Following your surgeon’s preparation instructions can help promote optimal healing and successful eyelid surgery results.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING YOUR BLEPHAROPLASTY PROCEDURE

Blepharoplasty surgery may involve specific techniques used on one or both upper lids, one or both lower lids, or all four. The overarching goal of any lower or upper eyelid surgery is to rejuvenate the eyes and eye area, as well as to create a balanced and symmetrical look. A blepharoplasty procedure can also improve a patient's ability to see, since sagging upper lids can interfere with an unobstructed field of vision.

Dr. Cross has made a number of advancements to help reduce bruising and swelling after blepharoplasty surgery. This includes a formulation in his numbing medicine that stops bruising before it has a chance to develop.

BLEPHAROPLASTY RECOVERY: WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER EYELID SURGERY

Most patients can return home a few hours after blepharoplasty. Recovery is typically comfortable, with mild swelling, bruising, and minimal discomfort during the healing process.

After eyelid surgery, patients can expect:

• Prescription eye drops and ointments during the first week to support healing and reduce swelling
• Possible temporary dryness or irritation of the eyes during the first few weeks
• Avoiding strenuous exercise for approximately one to two weeks
• Returning to most normal daily activities shortly after surgery
• A follow-up appointment five to seven days after surgery to monitor healing and address any remaining swelling or bruising

Cross Medical Group provides detailed aftercare instructions, including how to care for your eyes, medications to use, signs to monitor, and follow-up recommendations. Following these guidelines helps support optimal healing and long-lasting results.

Protecting the delicate eyelid skin after surgery is also important. Patients should limit sun exposure and wear sunglasses to help protect their results. As healing progresses, many patients enjoy a more refreshed, youthful, and rested appearance.

MAINTAINING LONG-LASTING RESULTS AFTER BLEPHAROPLASTY

This surgery consistently delivers beautifully natural, long-lasting results that really stand the test of time. The eyelid skin bounces back remarkably well, with scars cleverly hidden in your natural crease lines, making them nearly invisible. While the eyes will keep aging gracefully, many blepharoplasty patients enjoy fresh, rejuvenated looks that can last a lifetime.

WHY CHOOSE CROSS MEDICAL GROUP FOR TRUSTED BLEPHAROPLASTY RESULTS

At Cross Medical Group, blepharoplasty is performed with unmatched skill, personalized care, and a focus on natural, beautiful results. Our experienced, board-certified surgeons, Dr. Kevin J. Cross and Dr. Jackie Lyons, tailor every procedure to your unique features and goals, ensuring a refreshed, youthful appearance that looks effortlessly you. Combining advanced techniques with a compassionate approach, we prioritize your safety, comfort, and satisfaction throughout your eyelid rejuvenation journey.

BLEPHAROPLASTY FAQs

OTHER FACIAL REJUVENATION OPTIONS TO CONSIDER

As the face ages, the lower face can lose youthful definition due to volume loss, skin laxity, and tissue descent. These changes may cause the jawline to appear softer, wider, or more squared. While eyelid surgery rejuvenates the eye area, some patients may benefit from additional facial rejuvenation procedures to create a more balanced result.

Facelift and neck lift procedures address signs of aging in the lower face and neck by tightening underlying tissues, repositioning fat, and removing excess skin. When combined with eyelid surgery, these treatments can enhance overall facial harmony and restore a smoother, more youthful facial contour.

For those looking to soften fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes—such as crow’s feet—without surgery, Botox^® is highly effective. This neuromodulator works by relaxing the muscles responsible for dynamic wrinkles, smoothing the skin for several months. Dysport^® and Xeomin^® offer similar benefits, giving patients multiple options to maintain a fresh, youthful look. Incorporating these injectable treatments alongside blepharoplasty allows for a more natural, balanced rejuvenation by addressing both structural and surface-level signs of aging, leaving the entire face looking rested and revitalized.

From your initial consultation, your surgeon will create a personalized facial rejuvenation plan based on your unique anatomy, concerns, and aesthetic goals. The goal is to combine treatments that work together to achieve balanced, natural-looking results while restoring a refreshed and harmonious appearance.