Though eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is often an outpatient procedure, you’ll still need time to recover. Taking time to heal will give you the best results and is the best way to achieve youthful-looking and alert eyes. Here are some ways to make your recovery speedy and successful.
What To Expect After Surgery
You will rest in the office for a short period of time after the operation. It is important to have someone drive you home and stay with you at least overnight to make sure that all is well.
Your eyes may feel blurry, tight, and sensitive to light. You can also expect some bruising, swelling, and discomfort around the surgical area. Although pain is usually mild after blepharoplasty, you can manage discomfort with pain medication. However, it’s important to avoid anticoagulants such as aspirin during this time. Cool compresses are also soothing.
If you have non-absorbable stitches, they’ll be removed within the first week after the operation.
Caring for Your Eyes After Surgery
Your doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to guard against infection. It’s also recommend that you take your temperature during the recovery time. An elevated temperature may be a sign that an infection is developing.
As you heal, you may find that your eyes are teary but feel dry at the same time. Your surgeon may prescribe ointment or artificial tears to keep your eyes hydrated and alleviate the feeling of dryness and discomfort around the eyelid. Artificial tears also reduce itching and burning.
Do’s and Don’ts During Blepharoplasty Recovery
Plan to take it easy for at least a week to 10 days after eyelid surgery and adhere to the following activity guidelines:
Do
- Sleep with your head elevated to minimize swelling.
- Use cool compresses to ease discomfort and swelling.
- Use pain medication as directed to manage discomfort.
- When outside, protect your eyes from the sun, debris, and wind by wearing sunglasses.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to promote healing and reduce fluid retention.
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions for applying ointments to keep incisions clean and moisturized.
Dont’s
- Avoid activities that cause the eyes to dry out, including reading, using the computer, watching television, or any close-in work such as sewing.
- Do not wear contact lenses for at least 2 weeks.
- Postpone strenuous exercise, especially sports and heavy lifting, until your plastic surgeon has cleared you.
- Try not to bend over or cry as your eyelids are healing.
- Abstain from swimming, as chemicals in a pool can irritate the eyes.
- Do not smoke. Smoking is not only bad for your overall health, but it can impede the healing process.
Complete recovery from blepharoplasty takes several weeks, but most people can return to normal activities within 1 week.
Learn More
If you’re considering eyelid surgery and want to discuss your options and recovery details, use our online form to request a consultation or call us at (615) 942-8016. Our Youthful Reflections team will be happy to schedule a one-on-one consultation with double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Michael A. Boggess.
