Philadelphia, PA

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

Anchored in vitality

Introduction to Eyelid Surgery

The eyes are often the first place others notice signs of fatigue or aging. Heavy upper lids, hooding, and under-eye bags can make you look tired or less alert than you feel, and in some cases, excess upper eyelid skin can even narrow your field of vision. Eyelid surgery restores a brighter, more rested look while keeping your expression unmistakably your own.

At his practice in Bala Cynwyd, Dr. Evan Jones, MD, a fellowship-trained facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, performs eyelid surgery for patients throughout Philadelphia and the Main Line. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, eyelid surgery was the second most performed cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States in 2020.

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What Is Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery, also called blepharoplasty or an eyelid lift, is a surgical procedure that removes or repositions excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle from the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. It refreshes the area around the eyes and, when drooping upper lids block vision, can also improve your peripheral sight.

Upper eyelid surgery addresses drooping or hooded lids. Lower eyelid surgery targets puffiness, under-eye bags, hollowing, and loose skin. Many patients choose to treat both areas in one procedure for balanced, natural-looking results.

Because the skin around the eyes is the thinnest on the body, it often shows age earlier than other areas of the face. Genetics, sun exposure, and the natural loss of skin elasticity all play a role. Blepharoplasty addresses these changes at their source, which is why its results last far longer than creams or temporary treatments.

Dr. Jones’s Approach to Eyelid Surgery

Dr. Jones tailors every eyelid procedure to the individual, with a focus on balance and preserving the expression that makes you look like yourself.

 

  • Patient-Specific Planning: Dr. Jones evaluates your skin quality, eyelid position, facial structure, and overall health to design a plan that fits your anatomy and goals, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all technique.
  • Discreet Incisions: Upper eyelid incisions are hidden in the natural crease of the lid. For the lower lids, incisions are placed just below the lash line or inside the eyelid, where no external scar is visible.
  • Precise Symmetry: On the day of surgery, Dr. Jones carefully marks each incision site so both eyes are treated in harmony.
  • Whole-Face Perspective: As a facial plastic surgeon who also performs brow lifts, facelifts, and rhinoplasty, Dr. Jones considers how your eyes relate to the rest of your face and can recommend complementary procedures when they would improve the overall result.

The right approach depends on where your concerns are and on your anatomy. During your consultation, Dr. Jones will explain which option best fits your goals.


Lower Blepharoplasty
2-month post-operative photographs

View Results

Patient Spotlight

This patient is a vibrant woman who felt her eyes were constantly telling a story of exhaustion she wasn’t actually feeling. Despite getting plenty of sleep and maintaining a solid skincare routine, she couldn’t get rid of what she called her “Louis Vuitton’s” under-eye bags that made her look tired and aged beyond her years.
Hoping to restore a refreshed appearance, she came to Dr. Jones for a consultation. After evaluating her unique facial structure, Dr. Jones recommended a lower blepharoplasty to precisely reposition under-eye fat pads and smooth the transition between her lower lids and cheeks.

The transformation was seamless. She was thrilled with her results—her under-eye contours were smooth, naturally rested, and vibrant. She was also so appreciative of our team’s care and says she always “feels like a star” when she’s in the office.

What Sets Dr. Evan Jones Apart as an Eyelid Surgeon in Philadelphia, PA?

Dr. Jones tailors every eyelid procedure to the individual, with a focus on balance and preserving the expression that makes you look like yourself.

 

  • Facial Plastic Surgery Specialist: Dr. Jones is a fellowship-trained facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon whose practice is dedicated to the face, including eyelid surgery, rhinoplasty, facelifts, and brow lifts.
  • Head and Neck Surgical Training: He completed his residency in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine, giving him detailed expertise in the anatomy of the face and the area around the eyes.
  • Distinguished Fellowship: Dr. Jones completed his fellowship in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at Houston Methodist Hospital, training under Dr. Anthony Brissett, now president of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and Dr. Angela Sturm.
  • Academic Excellence: He earned his medical degree from the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University and his bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology from Penn State’s Schreyer Honors College. He is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society.
  • Professional Memberships and Leadership: Dr. Jones is a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) and the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. Within the AAFPRS, he serves on the Emerging Trends & Technologies Committee and the Young Physicians Committee.
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Eyelid Surgery Quick Facts

  • Procedure Time: Typically one to two hours
  • Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia
  • Recovery: Most patients return to work and social activities in 7 to 10 days
  • Results: Visible improvement in one to two weeks, with final results settling over several weeks

What Are the Benefits of Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery can refresh your appearance and, for some patients, improve how well they see.

  • A brighter, more rested appearance
  • Less heaviness or hooding of the upper lids
  • Smoother contours beneath the eyes
  • Improved facial balance and symmetry
  • Easier, more even makeup application
  • Improved peripheral vision when drooping lids block sight
  • Long-lasting results with relatively brief downtime

Many patients choose eyelid surgery for practical reasons as well as cosmetic ones. In a 2018 study published in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, about 70% of participants underwent eyelid surgery for functional reasons and about 30% for cosmetic reasons.

Who Are the Best Candidates for Eyelid Surgery?

You may be a good candidate for eyelid surgery if you:

  • Have drooping, heavy, or hooded upper eyelids
  • Have puffiness or bags beneath your eyes
  • Have loose or crepey skin around the eyes
  • Find that your upper lids interfere with your vision
  • Are in good overall health and do not smoke
  • Have realistic expectations for your results

Dr. Jones will evaluate your skin quality, eyelid position, facial structure, and overall health during your consultation. If a heavy brow is contributing to hooding, he may recommend pairing your eyelid surgery with a brow lift for the most natural result.

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How to Begin Your Eyelid Surgery Journey

Your journey begins with a collaborative, educational consultation at Dr. Jones’s office in Bala Cynwyd, just outside Philadelphia. During your visit, Dr. Jones will:

  • Listen to your concerns and the changes you would like to see
  • Examine your eyelids, skin quality, and overall facial structure
  • Take photographs to support precise surgical planning
  • Explain your treatment options, recovery, and any complementary procedures
  • Prepare a customized treatment proposal for you to review

You will leave your consultation with a clear understanding of your options and a plan designed around your goals. Our team will be available to answer any questions as you decide on the next step.

4 Steps to Prepare for My Eyelid Surgery with Dr. Jones

Thoughtful preparation helps your surgery and recovery go smoothly. Dr. Jones will give you personalized instructions, which typically include:

  1. Stop smoking and nicotine products well before and after surgery, as directed.
  2. Avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, and supplements that can increase bruising.
  3. Prepare cold compresses and extra pillows so you can rest with your head elevated at home.
  4. Arrange for a trusted adult to drive you home and help you during the first day.

 

What to Expect on the Day of Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery is an outpatient procedure, so you will return home the same day. Our team will welcome you, review your plan, and make sure you feel comfortable and informed before surgery begins.

  1. Marking: Dr. Jones carefully marks your incision sites to ensure symmetry between both eyes.
  2. Anesthesia: You will receive local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on your plan.
  3. Surgery: Dr. Jones removes or repositions excess skin, fat, and muscle through discreet incisions. The procedure typically takes one to two hours.
  4. Closure: Incisions are closed with fine sutures placed to heal as inconspicuously as possible.
  5. Recovery Room: You will rest briefly while our team monitors you before you go home.

Before you leave, you will receive detailed aftercare instructions, including how to use cold compresses and keep your head elevated to reduce swelling.

Our team will stay in close contact during your recovery, and Dr. Jones will see you for follow-up visits to monitor your healing and results.

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Combining My Eyelid Surgery with Other Procedures

Eyelid surgery pairs well with other facial procedures. Combining treatments can reduce total recovery time, anesthesia time, and cost, while creating a more harmonious result.

Brow Lift

A brow lift raises a low or heavy brow. Paired with upper eyelid surgery, it addresses hooding from both the brow and the lid.

Facelift

A facelift rejuvenates the lower face and jawline. Adding eyelid surgery refreshes the eyes so the whole face looks consistently rested.

Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty refines the shape of the nose. Combining it with eyelid surgery can enhance overall facial balance in one recovery period.

CO2 Laser Treatment

CO2 laser treatment improves fine lines and skin texture, complementing the smoother contours created by eyelid surgery.

 

Your Guide to Post-Eyelid Lift Care

Eyelid Surgery Recovery

Recovery after eyelid surgery is usually comfortable and relatively quick. Here is what most patients experience:

  • First Few Days: Mild swelling, bruising, and tightness are normal. Cold compresses and keeping your head elevated help them subside.
  • First Week: Swelling and bruising gradually ease. Stitches, if used, are typically removed after about one week.
  • Days 7 to 10: Most patients return to work and social activities.
  • Two Weeks: Light walking is encouraged early on, and most patients resume strenuous exercise after about two weeks, with Dr. Jones’s clearance.
  • Several Weeks: Remaining swelling resolves, and your final, refreshed result settles in.

6 Tips for Recovery From Eyelid Surgery

  1. Use cold compresses as directed during the first few days.
  2. Sleep with your head elevated to minimize swelling.
  3. Avoid rubbing or putting pressure on your eyes.
  4. Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes and incisions.
  5. Skip strenuous exercise and heavy lifting until you are cleared.
  6. Attend each follow-up visit so Dr. Jones can monitor your healing.

How Much Does Eyelid Surgery Cost in Philadelphia, PA?

The cost of eyelid surgery in Philadelphia depends on whether you have upper, lower, or combined eyelid surgery, along with anesthesia and facility fees. Every patient’s quote is unique to their anatomy and their specialized treatment approach, but the following are general guidelines:

  • Upper blepharoplasty: approximately $3,000- $5,000
  • Lower blepharoplasty: approximately $7,500- $9,000

Dr. Jones will provide a personalized estimate during your consultation.

If your eyelids interfere with your vision, insurance may cover part of the cost, depending on your plan. To make treatment more accessible, our practice also offers financing through Cherry and CareCredit®.

Why Choose Dr. Jones?

Eyelid surgery calls for precision, because small adjustments around the eyes make a noticeable difference. Dr. Jones brings advanced training in facial plastic and head and neck surgery to every procedure, along with a personalized approach that prioritizes balance and preserves your natural expression.

Patients from Philadelphia, the Main Line, and beyond choose Dr. Jones for refined, natural-looking results and a consultation experience that is collaborative, unhurried, and focused on their goals. From your first visit through your final follow-up, you will work directly with Dr. Jones, who personally plans and performs your procedure.

Because his practice is devoted entirely to the face, Dr. Jones understands how the eyes, brows, cheeks, and nose work together. That perspective allows him to recommend only what will truly benefit you, and to deliver results that look refreshed rather than surgical.

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Schedule Your Consultation

Discover how eyelid surgery can restore a brighter, more rested look. Call our Bala Cynwyd office at (610) 664-8830 or request your consultation online to meet with Dr. Jones and begin your personalized plan.

Eyelid Surgery FAQ’S