Introduction to Upper Eyelid Lift Surgery
A refreshed, more alert look often starts with the eyes. Upper blepharoplasty, commonly called an upper eyelid lift or simply an upper blepharoplasty, removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids to reduce hooding, improve vision in severe cases, and create a more youthful contour. This is just one of the several eyelid surgery options offered.
What is an Upper Eyelid Lift?
Upper blepharoplasty is a focused surgical procedure to remove redundant upper eyelid skin, conserve or reposition eyelid fat, and, in certain instances, refine the eyelid crease. The result is a less tired, less hooded appearance and, in some patients, improved peripheral vision when excess skin obstructs the visual field. It differs from lower eyelid surgery, which targets under eye bags and tear troughs, but is often used in combination for a more complete eye rejuvenation. See surgical steps and before-and-after photos in the upper blepharoplasty gallery.
An Asian blepharoplasty is a type of upper blepharoplasty that focuses on creating more defined upper eyelid creases. This is slightly different from traditional upper blepharoplasty, which focuses on removing excess skin due to aging.
Educational Video
The Upper Blepharoplasty Procedure
Learn more about what blepharoplasty is and how it can subtly enhance your facial harmony with insights from Dr. Tina Ho.
Upper Blepharoplasty: What is Expected With Surgery?
What to expect during upper eyelid surgery? Upper eyelid surgery is performed either under local anesthesia or general anesthesia. When a patient arrives, their eyelids are first marked for how much skin will be removed. The eyelids are then numbed with local anesthetic and an elliptical incision is made. The tissue is then removed and sutures are placed!
Why Choose Dr. Tina Ho for Upper Eyelid Lift Surgery?
Dr. Tina Ho stands out among her plastic surgeon peers in Philadelphia and Wayne as a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with advanced expertise in eyelid rejuvenation. She has completed dedicated training in both upper and lower eyelid surgery, including upper blepharoplasty, revision blepharoplasty, and Asian eyelid surgery. With a meticulous eye for detail, Dr. Ho approaches eyelid surgery with precision, artistry, and a steadfast commitment to natural, balanced results. Dr. Tina Ho also promotes a less is more perspective to upper blepharoplasty to avoid an overdone or less youthful result.
Recognized for her comprehensive and compassionate care, Dr. Ho is known as one of the best blepharoplasty surgeons in Philadelphia. From the initial consultation to surgery, Dr. Ho devotes the time and personal attention each patient deserves. Dr. Ho takes great care to ensure every individual feels comfortable, informed, and confident with their customized surgical plan. Her goal with every blepharoplasty procedure is to refresh and rejuvenate one’s appearance while preserving the natural character that makes each patient unique.
As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Ho specializes exclusively in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the face, head, and neck. She completed advanced fellowship training in cosmetic eyelid surgery through one of the nation’s most prestigious facial plastic and reconstructive surgery programs, learning directly from world-renowned leaders in facial rejuvenation. Today, she is a highly sought-after regional blepharoplasty specialist, attracting patients not only from Philadelphia, Wayne, and Main Line communities like Strafford, Bryn Mawr, Ardmore, and Devon, but also from across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York.
What is Dr. Tina Ho’s Approach?
Upper eyelid surgery with Dr. Ho is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia with sedation or, in some cases, general anesthesia for added comfort. Before surgery begins, Dr. Ho devotes significant time to carefully planning and precisely marking incisions, as preparation is one of the most critical steps to achieving an excellent outcome. Incisions are meticulously drawn within the natural upper eyelid creases, often extended slightly toward the outer brow in female patients, to capture just the right amount of excess skin for removal while ensuring any resulting scar remains virtually hidden.
Dr. Ho takes a conservative, detail-oriented approach, often avoiding unnecessary removal of underlying muscle or fat to prevent a hollow or overdone look. For patients with volume loss, she may recommend gentle fat transfer to enhance upper eyelid contour and achieve balanced rejuvenation. After removing the appropriate amount of skin, Dr. Ho performs a meticulous closure of the incisions to promote optimal healing and minimal scarring. Sutures are typically removed within five to seven days, revealing a naturally refreshed and more youthful appearance.
Upper eyelid surgery with Dr. Ho is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia with sedation or, in some cases, general anesthesia for added comfort. Before surgery begins, Dr. Ho devotes significant time to carefully planning and precisely marking incisions, as preparation is one of the most critical steps to achieving an excellent outcome. Incisions are meticulously drawn within the natural upper eyelid creases, often extended slightly toward the outer brow in female patients, to capture just the right amount of excess skin for removal while ensuring any resulting scar remains virtually hidden.
Dr. Ho takes a conservative, detail-oriented approach, often avoiding unnecessary removal of underlying muscle or fat to prevent a hollow or overdone look. For patients with volume loss, she may recommend gentle fat transfer to enhance upper eyelid contour and achieve balanced rejuvenation. After removing the appropriate amount of skin, Dr. Ho performs a meticulous closure of the incisions to promote optimal healing and minimal scarring. Sutures are typically removed within five to seven days, revealing a naturally refreshed and more youthful appearance.
Before and After
Dr. Ho’s Blepharoplasty Results
Quinfecta Eyebrow and Eyelid Rejuvenation
Approach: Patient Review and Results“I do not have enough words to express my joy with Dr Ho and her artistry! A couple of months ago, at the recommendation of a dear friend, I met with Dr. Ho to discuss options for my eyes in particular…After my consultation, I decided to proceed with her recommendation of an eyebrow lift, upper/lower blepharoplasty (eyelids), facial fat transfer and laser resurfacing. My surgery went beautifully…Just a little over two months after surgery and I am already completely healed. Honestly, I was in great shape one month in but now you cannot even tell that I had anything done! All people notice is that “something” is different, I look “refreshed” and….the best one…..you look ten years younger! What is your secret??? My secret is Dr. Tina Ho and I don’t mind telling everyone because if you are looking to refresh your look, this is a name you definitely need to know!”
Before and After: Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery
This wonderful patient initially saw me for Botox and filler treatment. She returned for surgical consultation, bothered by her aging eyelids. We pursued upper and lower eyelid surgery including facial fat transfer and CO2 laser resurfacing to remove the redundant tissue in her eyelids and restore the much needed volume in her lower eyelids and cheeks. We are thrilled with her results.
Your Upper Eyelid Lift Consultation
During your upper eyelid lift consultation with Dr. Ho, you will have the opportunity to discuss your goals, aesthetic concerns, and expectations in detail. Dr. Ho will review your medical history, current medications, and any visual symptoms to ensure surgery can be performed safely. She conducts a comprehensive examination of your eyelid anatomy, including crease height, skin laxity, fat distribution, and brow position, to design a customized treatment plan.
High-quality photographs are taken to assist in surgical planning and to document your baseline appearance for future comparison. Throughout the consultation, she encourages open communication and answers all questions about the procedure, recovery, and results. Her goal is to ensure you feel informed, comfortable, and confident in your personalized surgical plan before moving forward.
Virtual consultations are also available.
Recovery After an Upper Eyelid Lift
The recovery period following an upper bleph is usually well tolerated. Initially, patients will experience swelling and bruising that peaks within the first 48–72 hours and gradually subsides over 1–2 weeks. Patients are asked to use ice around the clock for the first two days and apply eye drops and ointment to keep the eyes moist. Pain is often mild and can be effectively managed with the use of Tylenol.
Patients often return to desk work within a week and resume more active exercise around 2 weeks following surgery, following Dr. Ho’s specific guidance. Scars mature over months and are typically concealed within the lid crease.
Post-Op Blepharoplasty Essentials
Expand each section below for more information.
Enhance Your Recovery with Elixir MD
The Elixir MD™ is an innovative recovery tool that offers various treatment programs using different LED light wavelengths to achieve specific pre and post-surgical goals. These programs are supported by advanced artificial intelligence temperature controls and adjustable settings to address a range of concerns and goals. This non-invasive therapy is safe, painless, and can reduce infections after surgery while also enhancing recovery and minimizing scarring after rhinoplasty surgery.
Benefits of Elixir MD
Enhanced post-operative recovery after rhinoplasty. Using LED light, Elixir MD™ stimulates the skin to accelerate wound healing and minimize scarring post-surgery.
Improved healing and cellular repair. Specific wavelengths stimulate collagen and elastin production, which are essential for healing after surgery.
Easier rhinoplasty recovery. Reduces inflammation responsible for swelling and pain after surgery.
Improved lymphatic drainage and blood flow. Enhances the delivery of nutrients and removal of waste for optimal healing.
Elixir MD Treatment Programs for Rhinoplasty
Elixir Detox
This pre-operative therapy uses blue light to reduce the number of bacteria, oils, and toxins on the skin, reducing surgical complications such as infection.
Elixir Cellular Repair
Post-rhinoplasty, Cellular Repair uses yellow light to improve circulation, reducing bruising and swelling, accelerating healing, and shortening recovery.
Elixir NeoXcell
The NeoXcell™ treatment program combines the benefits of Elixir Cellular and Thermal to boost healing and balance melanin production for a more even skin tone.
Elixir RoXium
RoXium™ uses yellow and blue light to reduce swelling/bruising, prevent skin oxidation, decrease sebum, minimize pores, and clear the complexion.
Upper Eyelid Lift Cost
Cost varies with complexity, anesthesia, facility fees, and whether additional procedures are combined (like a brow lift or lower blepharoplasty). The average cost of upper blepharoplasty typically ranges from $6,000 to $8,000 and includes facility and anesthesia fees.
To help patients find affordable options, Dr. Ho offers financing options and payment plans to help patients budget for surgery. During your initial consultation, you will receive specific pricing and the various financing options and payment plans.
Patient Testimonials
Real Stories from Upper Eyelid Lift Surgery Patients
Real Patients, Real Results
Patient Testimonials
4.9 stars rating from 298 reviews
RealSelf
5 stars rating from 168 reviews
As Seen In
Dr. Tina Ho in the Press
Dr. Tina Ho has been featured in leading media publications that highlight her expertise in facial plastic surgery.
