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Introduction to Lower Eyelid Surgery (Lower Blepharoplasty)

Time can wreak havoc on the most sensitive areas of skin on our face – the skin around our eyes. Eyelid “bags” can be the result of age or just genetics. Similarly, “dark or hollow circles” as well as “excess lower eyelid skin” can also be caused by genetics or loss of upper cheek fat with age. If you have any of these concerns, lower eyelid surgery in Philadelphia might be what you are looking for. Founded by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Christian Subbio, Subbio Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa has become the one-stop shop for cosmetic and aesthetic procedures, including lower eyelid surgery, performed by Dr. Charles Schafer in Philadelphia.

What is Lower Eyelid Surgery?

Lower eyelid surgery, medically known as lower blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that targets the lower eyelid area by removing the excess skin. This procedure eliminates the constantly tired look, helping patients look energized and happy. Patients report better eye contact and an overall rejuvenated look. Lower blepharoplasty is a low-recovery, low-downtime procedure with long-lasting results.

Portrait of Dr. Shafer

What Are the Benefits of Lower Eyelid Surgery?

Patients who have received lower eyelid surgery in Philadelphia have enjoyed long-lasting benefits and results, including better self-esteem and even better vision. Further benefits that have been reported are as follows:

  • Boost in self-confidence
  • Enhanced eyelid contour
  • Improved dark circles
  • Improved eye contact
  • Improved baggy under eyes
  • Reduced wrinkles
  • Rejuvenated appearance
Blonde woman with blue eyes face close-up

Who Are the Best Candidates For Lower Eyelid Surgery?

Lower blepharoplasty is most used to address several specific issues around the eyes. Good candidates for blepharoplasty will typically:

  • Be generally healthy enough for surgery
  • Have under-eye circles or bags
  • Have the “tired eye loo.”
  • Have difficulty seeing because of excess tissue around the eyes
  • Have realistic expectations

What’s the First Step of Getting Lower Eyelid Surgery?

The first step in the lower blepharoplasty process is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Schafer at Subbio Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa in Newtown Square, PA. During the appointment, patients are encouraged to be honest about their health history as well as their aesthetic goals, concerns, and expectations. This is the time to ask any questions about the procedure and the associated risks and benefits. Dr. Schafer will examine your eyes to see if this is your best procedure and share information to manage your expectations. He might also discuss whether you’re a good fit for other facial rejuvenation procedures, such as brow lifts or facelifts. This is the right time to bring up any other ideas you might have for combined procedures so that he can evaluate you for those at the same time and, if possible, include them in your treatment plan.

Once you both agree that a lower blepharoplasty is the way forward, Dr. Schafer will draft a customized surgical plan for you. You can then take this plan to our Patient Care Coordinator, who will help you with scheduling and pricing and share any pre-operative instructions.

What to Expect on the Day of Lower Eyelid Surgery

Lower blepharoplasty is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. On the day of your lower eyelid surgery, you will arrive at the surgical center and meet with Dr. Schafer to go over your surgical plan again. Patients must be fully comfortable with the surgery before we begin. Finally, a board-certified anesthesiologist will administer local or general anesthesia based on the patient’s prior approval.

Once sedated, Dr. Schafer will skillfully create a hidden incision on the inner surface of the lower eyelid and remove any excess skin or under-eye fat pads, shaping the eye to the desired contour. The hidden incision has additional advantages: it is stitchless, has much quicker healing, and avoids potential damage to the muscle responsible for closing the eye and blinking.

Finally, Dr. Schafer will bandage the eyes to cover the incisions and provide gentle compression to stay ahead of the swelling.

A lower eyelid surgery, on average and without complications, will take between forty-five minutes and an hour.

Lower Eyelid Surgery Recovery

After the surgery, patients will be monitored in the recovery room until sedation wears off. They are encouraged to have a family member or a friend drive them home.

It is also common for patients to experience minor swelling, bruising, and discomfort, but Dr. Schafer can prescribe pain medication, eye drops, and/or ointments to help with recovery and to prevent any infection.

It is recommended that patients elevate their heads and use cold compresses to reduce swelling.

How Much Does Lower Eyelid Surgery Cost in Philadelphia, PA?

Lower blepharoplasty costs will vary depending on multiple factors, including the complexity of your case, the surgeon’s fees, and the anesthetist’s fees. It is best to schedule your consultation as soon as possible so that you can get a surgical plan made for your case, which can then be evaluated for pricing by our patient coordinator. Subbio Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa accepts many payment methods for patient convenience, helping patients find low-interest financing.

Why Choose Subbio Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa?

When you are looking for places to get your lower blepharoplasty, Subbio Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa on the Main Line near Philadelphia should be at the top of your list. Dr. Schafer operates with the utmost integrity and professionalism. He’d rather lose your business than sign you up for a procedure he isn’t 100% behind. Your safety, well-being, and satisfaction are paramount. And if he thinks you need a procedure he doesn’t offer, he’ll recommend a different surgeon for you.

Dr. Charles Schafer is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).

Dr. Christian Subbio is Board-certified in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery by the prestigious American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Robert H. Ivy Pennsylvania Plastic Surgery Society.

Schedule Your Consultation

A lower blepharoplasty is one of those small surgeries that can make a big impact. Patients have reported improved communication and eye contact after this surgery. If you struggle with under-eye bags, dark circles, or sagging eyelids, you might be a candidate for a lower blepharoplasty in Philadelphia. Contact our office to schedule your consultation with Dr. Charles Schafer by calling us directly at (610) 356-6100 or filling out our online form,

Take the first step to becoming the best version of yourself.

3734 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA 19073

In our office, you will be treated like a part of our family. It’s a relaxing, pressure-free haven where you can feel comfortable to ask all of your questions. We think you’ll sense immediately that we care as much about your safety and your beautiful results as you do. Contact us today for a consultation, and find out why Dr. Subbio has earned a reputation as one of the most trusted and skilled plastic surgeons in Philadelphia.

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