Recovery from Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

Find Eyelid Surgery Clinics in London & UK »

Your recovery will partly be determined by your body’s natural ability to heal.  However, there are various ways in which you can aid the process.

Immediate Post-Operative Care

Directly after the operation, the incisions should be treated with lubricating and antibiotic preparations.  You should also be prescribed some kind of pain medication.  Depending on the extent of the procedure your eyes may be bandaged.  It is essential that the wounds are kept clean and that you rest completely.

Home Recovery after Blepharoplasty

Once you are home, it is advisable to do the following:

• Keep your head elevated.  This will limit pressure and bruising.
• The use of cold compresses can ease pain and reduce swelling.
• Follow the cleaning care instructions carefully.  Eyedrops will prevent infection and lessen itchiness and dryness, improving the healing and limiting scarring.
• It is vitally important to avoid exertion – even mild exertion – for the first few weeks, as any pressure on the stitches or wounds can cause further complications.

What To Expect During Your Recovery from Blepharoplasty

Many patients experience some degree of sensitivity to light.  Dark glasses can help.  Other common and mild side-effects include:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Itching
• Tightness
• Watering of the eyes
• Bruising
• Blurred vision

These should decrease and fade over the course of the first week.  Patients are usually able to start functioning normally within 5-7 days: again, you need to take extra care not to exert yourself or cause any stress to the eyes.  It is essential to follow a meticulous cleaning regime as advised by your surgeon.

It is inadvisable to use contact lenses or makeup for at least a fortnight.  If in doubt, discuss with your consultant.

Diet is extremely important in the recovery period.  A good intake of fresh produce and plenty of water will ensure that there are less toxins present to cause fluid build-up and retention.  Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol.  In addition to the health benefits, this will help create an even fresher and brighter look when the recovery is complete.

Be Realistic

Don’t put undue pressure or deadlines on yourself: your healing process will be individual and unique.  Don’t rush.  Take good care of yourself – plenty of rest in the weeks following your operation is essential.

Longer Term

Scars usually fade within a few months and, hopefully, the full benefits and effects of the procedure will be apparent.

---

« Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Results Male Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) »