What is the Recovery for an Eyelid Lift Like?

We are socialized to look at each other in the eyes when we communicate, and as a result, we become very sensitive to eyelid changes.  Aging, stress, and health are reflected in the appearance of our eyes, often long before we see those changes in other areas of our face. You see those changes, and others do as well!   Ready to erase years off your face, but curious about what to expect during blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) recovery? Don’t worry. I’ll help you determine which procedure will achieve your desired results, and provide you with a comprehensive recovery plan for achieving an optimal outcome.

I’ll use my advanced surgical skills and artistry to complete this 1-1.5 hour procedure in a relatively painless, simple procedure.

Early Recovery

Every person is unique and recovers at a different pace. Recovering from blepharoplasty is short and straightforward, though it can result in temporary side effects (such as minor blurring of your vision and light sensitivity). Bruising and swelling typically peak 3-4 days after surgery and can last anywhere between 10-14 days.  With make-up and glasses (pull out those readers!) you’ll often be ready to return to work and social activity in a week.

Other general recovery recommendations:

• Avoid blood-thinning medications, vitamins, and supplements ahead of surgery
• Use Arnica before and after surgery
• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling
• Protect your eyes from the sun, water, and other irritants
• Get plenty of rest
• Minimize screen-time for one week

Some patients experience mild discomfort, dry eyes, and irritation, which can be managed with medication or lubricating ointment.

When can I go Back to Work and Resume other Activities?

Excess strain on your eyes or body can cause bleeding, extending your total recovery time. It’s best to start slow and listen to your body. If your eyes become tired, dry, or scratchy, it’s probably time to stop and rest.

All external skin sutures are removed by four to seven days following surgery.  On your lower eyelids, I often use an internal dissolvable suspension stitch for lower eyelid surgery, which takes between four and six weeks to fully dissolve. During this time, your lower eyelid is held up at a slight angle to prevent it from drooping as you heal. Once the stitches have dissolved, your eye will return to its normal shape.

Returning to Work

Patients are usually able to return to work after 5 to 7 days, with some exceptions. If you work from home or have a job that isn’t physically strenuous, you may be able to return to work as soon as two days. You can expect to have visible stitches until they are removed at four to seven days post-surgery. In procedures where only fat pads are removed from below the lower eyelid, stitches are not required. Bruising and swelling may be present for 10-14 days.

Resuming Exercise

When it comes to light exercise, sports, or more strenuous activities, it’s important to remember that recovery time depends a lot on your overall health. Non-smokers tend to heal quicker than smokers, and can usually resume their normal workout routine after two weeks.

How Long Before I See Final Results from My Blepharoplasty?

The results of blepharoplasty are long-lasting. You’ll get a nice boost to your self-confidence from your newly rejuvenated, well-rested appearance.  With a board-certified plastic surgeon, most patients experience optimal results within three to six weeks. Your appearance will continue to improve over three or four months.  If you have an important social event, where photos will be taken, it’s probably a good idea to complete your surgery six to eight weeks ahead of the event.

Although good results are expected, the natural aging process does not stop. Additionally, desired results may not be possible with a single procedure, necessitating a secondary surgery. For a majority of patients, needing more than a minor touch-up is rare, even after ten to fifteen years.