Eyelid Surgery – Your eyelids tend to sag as you age, as the muscles that support them weaken. If you are unhappy with how your eyelids look, you may have eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty.
Eyelid surgery helps you to look younger and more alert. If you want to get eyelid surgery, you should research the procedure. One of the concerns for most people is eyelid surgery recovery.
This article will look at what you need to know about recovery from eyelid surgery and the tips to promote a quicker recovery. Read on to learn more.
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Recovery After Eyelid Surgery
The main concern for many people after surgery is the recovery time. An eyelid surgery recovery takes at least four to six weeks.
- Your eyelids will be sore and may feel tight for at least two to three days after the procedure. Your eyes may also be sensitive to light, watery, sticky, dry, and itchy.
- This surgery is performed under anesthesia (most commonly general anesthesia). Because of this, you will need to have a friend or family member present to drive you home and stay with you.
- Ensure you have help around the house the first few days post-surgery, as you will have blurred vision for a few days. You will also have some pain and discomfort, but your surgeon will give you pain medication to deal with the discomfort.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes during the recovery period.
- If the surgeon used removable stitches, you will have a follow-up visit to remove stitches three to five days after the procedure.
- After the first week, your sight will have improved; however, your eyelids will still be swollen and bruised. You should avoid reading and screen time to avoid straining your eyes.
- You may have some slight swelling and bruising for 10 to 14 days after your eyelid lift. Most people can return to their routine; you can resume reading and screen time, but you should still avoid strenuous activities.
- Three weeks post-surgery, the swelling and bruising should have reduced. You may also wear your makeup and contact lenses and take up more strenuous activities. You should, however, stay away from contact sports.
- Four to six weeks post-surgery, you will start seeing the final results of the eyelid surgery as the swelling and bruising should have faded away. The surgeon will lift all restrictions at this point, and you can enjoy your youthful look.
Tips for Quick Recovery After an Eyelid Surgery
You can follow several tips to help your eyelid surgery recovery smoother and faster. Some of the recommendations include:
- Take at least one week off work or school to help you heal.
- Have someone to help you around the house in the first week.
- Apply cold compresses to help with the swelling and bruising, especially in the first week post-surgery.
- Take baths during the first few days post-surgery; you do not want to get water in the incisions.
- Avoid strenuous activities.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes.
- Do not stress your eyes from reading and watching television.
- Do not smoke.
- Apply the prescribed eye drops and ointments.
- Wear sunglasses and a hat to protect your eyes when going out in the sun.
- Wear glasses instead of contact lenses for the first two to three weeks post-surgery.
- Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Eyelid Surgery Recovery Time?
The recovery time from eyelid surgery is usually four to six weeks.
What Are the Potential Risks of Eyelid Surgery?
Like all other procedures, eyelid surgery may have some complications. Some of the possible complications include:
- Dry eyes
- Sensation changes and numbness around the eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Temporary pulling down of the lower eyelid
- Difficulty closing your eyes
- Blurred vision
These side effects are usually temporary and will fade within a few days or weeks. Long-term side effects are not usual.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Eyelid surgery is not painful as the surgeon uses anesthesia; however, you may experience slight discomfort during the first week of recovery. Your doctor will give you pain medications to manage the pain.
Can I Wash My Face After Eyelid Surgery?
Several requirements are needed when washing your face after eyelid surgery, depending on the stage of recovery. They are as follows:
- One to two days post-surgery: Take a bath or shower but ensure your eyes stay dry. If you have to wash your hair, do it over a sink.
- Three to seven days post-surgery: Wash the face gently with water and soap and pat dry. Avoid picking on the skin layers.
- Seven days post-surgery: After the surgeon removes the sutures, you can resume your washing routine.
- 14 days post-surgery: You can start applying makeup.
What Should I Expect After the Procedure?
Some of the things you should expect after the procedure include:
- Double visions
- Watery eyes
- Itchiness
- Swelling and bruising around the eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Some pain and discomfort
- Blurred vision from the eye ointment
- Puffy eyelids
