Do you look tired even after a full night of sleep? Heavy eyelids and puffy bags under the eyes can make you look older and more fatigued than you actually feel.
At the practice of premier facial plastic surgeon Oren Friedman, MD, we help patients in Philadelphia and Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, restore a refreshed, natural look. Double board-certified surgeon Dr. Friedman specializes in advanced, minimally invasive eyelid surgery to address these exact concerns.
Let's explore how this procedure works, what the recovery looks like, and how we customize the treatment for your unique anatomy.
Minimally invasive eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a procedure that removes or repositions excess fat and skin around the eyes. For the lower lids, we often use a transconjunctival approach that accesses the fat pads from the inside of the eyelid.
This technique completely avoids external scars on your face. It preserves the delicate muscles that support your eyelids. However, this approach requires good natural skin elasticity. If you have significant sagging skin, a traditional external approach may be necessary.
During your consultation, Dr. Friedman will evaluate your skin and muscle structure to recommend the best technique for you.
While the surgical changes are immediate, postsurgical swelling and bruising will temporarily obscure your final results. It takes time for the delicate tissues around the eyes to heal and settle.
In a 2025 study of adults in the United States, swelling resolved in an average of 26 days. The study also noted that factors like male sex, preexisting dry eyes, and baseline eyelid laxity can prolong this swelling. We guide you through every step of the healing process. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you heal as comfortably and quickly as possible.
A 2023 study of adults in Austria showed that upper eyelid surgery improved satisfaction by an average of 50 points on a 100-point scale. We focus on creating natural-looking outcomes that make you look rested, never "pulled" or overdone.
Eyelid surgery is highly effective for structural issues like puffy fat bags and sagging skin, but it can’t fix every cause of tired-looking eyes. Understanding the root cause of your concern is the first step to achieving the best results.
Here is what cosmetic eyelid surgery can address:
The American Society of Plastic Surgeonn (ASPS) notes that cosmetic blepharoplasty treats loose skin and puffy fat. A drooping lid caused by a weak muscle requires a different surgical repair.
Additionally, surgical procedures can’t fix nonstructural issues like dark circles. Dark circles under the eyes are often caused by genetics, fatigue, or hyperpigmentation.
If dark circles or skin texture are your primary concerns, we may recommend combining your procedure with other treatments. We offer nonsurgical options like Botox® and fillers or advanced skin rejuvenation to address fine lines and skin tone. Dr. Friedman performs a comprehensive evaluation to ensure we address the true cause of your concerns.
Ready to refresh your look and feel more confident? Our team is here to help you navigate your facial rejuvenation journey with personalized, world-class care. Contact us online or by calling 215-663-3223 today to schedule your consultation at our Philadelphia or Bryn Mawr office.
