The eyes play a powerful role in how we’re perceived. When excess skin, heaviness, or under-eye fullness develops, it can make you look tired or aged—even when you feel well and energetic. For many people, this disconnect is what leads them to consider blepharoplasty.
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a precise procedure designed to restore a more refreshed, open appearance to the eyes while preserving their natural shape and expression.The goal is not to change the shape of your eyes or erase every line, but to restore a more open, rested look so your eyes better reflect your energy and personality.
Anthony D. Bruno, II, MD is double board certified in both General Surgery and Plastic Surgery. After six rigorous years of general surgery training and successfully passing his General Surgery board examination, he went on to complete 3 additional years of advanced plastic surgery training at Duke University Medical Center, one of the nation’s premier programs. He then passed his Plastic Surgery board exam. This exceptional level of training along with his God given talents is what enables his meticulous planning, technical mastery, precision, and expert refinement in the most complex Blepharoplasty Surgery.
At Bruno Plastic Surgery in Scranton, eyelid surgery is planned with the philosophy of Enhancing Your Natural Beauty—subtle, precise improvements that keep you looking like yourself, simply more refreshed.
How Aging Affects the Eyelids
Eyelid aging is influenced by genetics, sun exposure, and natural changes in skin and soft tissue. Common concerns include:
– Excess skin on the upper eyelids that can feel heavy or hooded
– Puffiness or fullness at the inner corners of the upper lids
– Under-eye bags or shadowing that persist even when rested
– Fine lines or crepey skin around the lower lids
– A tired, sad, or stern appearance despite feeling well
For patients, these changes can affect confidence at work, in social situations, and in photos. Blepharoplasty can help restore clarity and brightness to the eye area while preserving each person’s unique expression.
What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that refines the eyelids by carefully removing or repositioning excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle. It can be performed on:
– Upper eyelids
– Lower eyelids
– Both upper and lower lids in the same operation
Upper eyelid surgery focuses on smoothing and lifting the upper lids, revealing more of the natural lid platform and reducing heaviness. Lower eyelid surgery addresses puffiness, bags, and excess skin that contribute to a tired or aged look. The goal is a smoother, more rested appearance—not a drastic change to your eye shape.
Who May Benefit From Eyelid Surgery
Blepharoplasty may be appropriate if you experience:
– Drooping upper lids that make you look tired or interfere with makeup
– Upper eyelid skin that rests on or near the eyelashes
– Lower lid bags or bulges that persist even when you are rested
– Shadowing under the eyes that concealer cannot easily hide
– Comments from others that you look tired, worried, or upset when you are not
Ideal candidates are in good general health, at or near a stable weight, and nonsmokers or those willing to pause smoking to support healing. Some patients pursue eyelid surgery in their 40s, while others wait until later. During consultation, Dr. Bruno evaluates your eyelids, brow position, and midface, then explains whether upper, lower, or combined surgery is the best match for your goals.
Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty
Upper eyelid blepharoplasty focuses on lifting heaviness and restoring a cleaner lid contour. Excess skin that droops over the natural crease can be removed, and in some cases, small pockets of fat can be refined to reduce puffiness.
Key goals of upper eyelid surgery:
– Preserve or restore a natural lid crease- Remove enough skin to relieve heaviness without over-hollowing
– Maintain eye shape and expression while improving definition
The incision is typically placed in the natural upper eyelid crease, allowing the scar to blend when the eyes are open. After healing, most patients find the incision is subtle and the upper eyelids feel lighter, with makeup applying more smoothly.
Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty
Lower eyelid blepharoplasty addresses puffiness, bags, and excess skin beneath the eyes. Depending on anatomy and goals, the procedure can be performed:
– Through an incision just beneath the lash line (subciliary approach) to address both skin and fat
– Through an incision on the inside of the eyelid (transconjunctival approach) to adjust fat with minimal external scarring, when appropriate
Dr. Bruno carefully evaluates which structures—fat, skin, or both—are contributing most to the concern. The goal is to soften bags and reduce shadowing while avoiding an over-corrected, hollow, or overly tight look. Lower eyelid surgery is often combined with fine-tuning of the midface or cheek area to maintain a smooth, natural transition.
Combining Eyelid Surgery With Other Procedures
The upper face works as a unit, so eyelid surgery is often considered alongside other procedures:
– Brow lift for a low or heavy brow contributing to upper lid hooding
– Facelift or neck lift to address jowls and neck laxity at the same time
– Cheek augmentation or midface rejuvenation when volume loss contributes to under-eye hollows
In carefully selected patients, combining procedures can create a more comprehensive and harmonious rejuvenation with a single recovery period. During consultation, Dr. Bruno explains which combinations are safe and appropriate for your anatomy and goals and when a staged approach may be better.
The Consultation and Planning Process
A thoughtful consultation is essential for safe, natural-looking eyelid surgery. During your visit, Dr. Bruno typically:
– Reviews your medical and eye history, including dry eye symptoms or prior eye procedures
– Examines your eyelids, brow position, and cheek support
– Takes photographs for planning and documentation
– Discusses what bothers you most and how subtle or noticeable a change you prefer
– Explains realistic outcomes, potential risks, and the expected course of healing
The plan is tailored to your anatomy and comfort level. For some, limited upper lid surgery is enough; for others, a combination of upper and lower blepharoplasty may provide the best balance.
The Blepharoplasty Procedure
Eyelid surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, often under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of surgery and patient preference.
During upper eyelid surgery, Dr. Bruno:
– Marks the natural lid crease and plans the amount of skin to be removed
– Carefully excises excess skin and refines fat where appropriate
– Closes the incision with fine sutures designed to blend into the crease
For lower eyelids, he:
– Chooses an incision just beneath the lashes or inside the lid based on your needs
– Repositions or refines fat to smooth out bags and hollows
– Tightens or smooths excess skin when needed, preserving natural curvature
At the end of surgery, cool compresses and ointment may be applied, and you return home the same day in the care of a responsible adult.
Recovery and Healing After Eyelid Surgery
After Eyelid Surgery you will have detailed instructions on post operative care and restrictions. You will be closely followed by Dr. Bruno for monitoring of healing, adjustments to your activity plan, and time to address any questions. The goal is a safe recovery that sets the foundation for a long-lasting, natural-looking result
Recovery after blepharoplasty is a gradual process and typical early experiences include:
– Swelling and bruising around the eyes
– Mild tightness or a feeling of “fullness” in the lids
– Temporary dryness, tearing, or light sensitivity
Using cold compresses as directed, keeping the head elevated, and following ointment instructions help with comfort and healing. Many patients feel comfortable returning to nonstrenuous desk work and activities within about one week, though bruising or mild swelling can last longer. Makeup can often be used after a short period to camouflage residual changes once incisions have sealed, based on guidance from Dr. Bruno.
Over several weeks, swelling resolves, incisions soften, and the final contour becomes more apparent. The goal is for others to notice that you look rested and well, not to suspect that you have had surgery.
Scars and Longevity of Results
Eyelid skin tends to heal very well. Upper eyelid scars are usually hidden in the natural crease and are difficult to see when the eyes are open. Lower eyelid scars, when placed just beneath the lashes, typically blend into natural lines; when placed inside the lid, there is no visible external scar.
Results from eyelid surgery are long lasting, though the natural aging process continues. Many patients enjoy improvement for many years. Good sun protection, healthy lifestyle habits, and appropriate skincare all support longer-lasting results. If changes become more noticeable again later in life, additional options can be discussed as part of a long-term plan.
What Sets Bruno Plastic Surgery Apart for Eyelid Surgery
Anthony D. Bruno, II, M.D., who leads Bruno Plastic Surgery is what sets it apart. Dr. Bruno’s work goes far beyond technique. Dr. Bruno strives to change someone’s life with precision, artistry and emotional intelligence that exceptional surgery requires. Patients throughout the tri-state area choose Dr. Bruno for his attention to detail and meticulous technique. Dr. Bruno has the ability to create results that look natural, elegant, and uniquely tailored to each patient.
Dr. Bruno is Double Board Certified. He is board certified in General Surgery and Plastic Surgery, with extensive training at the prestigious Duke University and other leading institutions. This background provides a strong foundation for managing complex breast procedures with both safety and artistry. Every patient’s plan is individualized, and every detail is considered,
Many long-standing patients express their loyalty with the hashtag #OnlyDrBruno, reflecting the trust they place in his judgment and the consistent care they receive. From your first consultation through your final follow-up, the experience is designed to be first class, organized, and supportive at every step.
Preparing for Eyelid Surgery
Preparation helps make recovery smoother and safer. Before surgery, Dr. Bruno:
– Reviews medical history, eye health, medications, and any prior eye procedures
– May recommend an eye evaluation if you have a history of dry eye or other concerns
– Discusses medications and supplements to pause before surgery to reduce bleeding risk
– Emphasizes smoking cessation and good hydration to support healing
You will receive detailed preoperative instructions, including when to stop eating and drinking before surgery and how to arrange transportation. At home, setting up a comfortable recovery space with extra pillows, cool compresses, eye drops if recommended, and easy-to-reach items helps with early healing.
Aftercare Essentials
After blepharoplasty, following instructions closely is key to a comfortable recovery:
– Use cold compresses as directed during the first days to reduce swelling
– Keep the head elevated when resting or sleeping
– Use prescribed ointments or drops as recommended
– Avoid rubbing or pulling on the eyelids
– Limit screen time initially if eyes feel dry or strained
Strenuous exercise, bending, and heavy lifting are restricted for a period to reduce pressure around the eyes. Sunglasses and sun protection are especially important as healing progresses. Follow-up appointments allow Dr. Bruno to monitor healing, remove sutures when appropriate, and answer questions as you move through each stage of recovery.
Related Pages
Facial Cosmetic Surgery in Scranton, PA
Facelift Surgery in Scranton, PA
Neck Lift Surgery in Scranton, PA
Brow Lift Surgery in Scranton, PA
Cheek Augmentation (Cheek Implants) in Scranton, PA
Chin Augmentation (Chin Implants) in Scranton, PA
Facial Fat Grafting in Scranton, PA
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Whether or not drooping eyelids are interfering with your vision, Dr. Bruno knows how uncomfortable it can be living with sagging skin around your eyes. Looking tired can make you feel tired and depressed. Often there’s no amount of rest that can fix that. Blepharoplasty in NEPA, however, can.
With a reputation for meticulous detail and consummate professionalism, no one is better equipped to perform your eyelid surgery than Anthony D. Bruno, II, M.D. Embrace a more confident, youthful new you today with the best blepharoplasty surgeon in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
Will eyelid surgery change the shape of my eyes?
Blepharoplasty is designed to refine the eyelids, not to change your natural eye shape. The focus is on removing or repositioning excess skin and fat to reduce heaviness and puffiness while preserving your unique features. During consultation, Dr. Bruno studies your anatomy and listens to how subtle or noticeable a change you prefer. Incisions and adjustments are planned to respect your natural crease and lid position. The goal is for others to say you look rested or refreshed, not to immediately notice a change in eye shape or expression.
How long does it take to recover from eyelid surgery?
Most patients experience noticeable swelling and bruising for the first several days after surgery, with improvement over the first one to two weeks. Many feel comfortable returning to nonstrenuous work within about a week, depending on personal comfort and visibility of bruising. Light activities and walking begin early, while strenuous exercise, bending, and heavy lifting are restricted for a period to protect healing tissues. Final refinements continue over several weeks as swelling resolves and scars soften. Dr. Bruno provides a personalized recovery timeline with clear expectations for each stage of healing.
Will I have visible scars after blepharoplasty?
Eyelid incisions are placed with great care to be as discreet as possible. Upper eyelid incisions typically sit in the natural crease, making scars difficult to see when the eyes are open. Lower eyelid incisions may be placed just beneath the lash line or inside the lid, depending on your needs. Early scars are pink and more noticeable at close range, then gradually soften and fade over several months. Dr. Bruno uses fine suturing techniques to promote thin, flat lines and recommends scar care and sun protection to help scars blend naturally into surrounding skin over time.
Can eyelid surgery help with vision problems from heavy lids?
In some patients, significant upper eyelid skin can droop over the lashes and partially obstruct the upper field of vision, especially when tired. Upper eyelid blepharoplasty can lift this excess skin, which may improve the visual field and reduce the feeling of heaviness. However, not every patient experiences functional limitation. During your consultation, Dr. Bruno evaluates whether your upper lids are affecting vision and explains what improvement can reasonably be expected from surgery in your particular situation.
Am I too young or too old for eyelid surgery?
Age is only part of the picture. Some patients in their 30s or 40s develop early eyelid changes due to genetics or anatomy, while others do not consider blepharoplasty until later in life. The best candidates are those with clear concerns, realistic expectations, and overall good health. A healthy patient in their 60s, 70’s or 80’s can be an excellent candidate if medical evaluation supports surgery. During consultation, Dr. Bruno reviews your health history, examines your eyelids and surrounding structures, and explains which options are appropriate at your stage of life and what you can expect from the procedure.