Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a common procedure that involves lower eyelid blepharoplasty or upper eyelid blepharoplasty. A blepharoplasty can help remove or reduce droopy eyelids, excess skin around the eyes, tired-looking eyes, or circles around the eyes. Additionally, this procedure can improve facial aesthetics and promote facial harmony. In some cases, a blepharoplasty procedure is combined with facial and skin rejuvenation procedures such as chemical skin resurfacing, a brow lift, or a mid-face lift.
Eyelid surgery recovery involves following postoperative care. During the first 48 hours after surgery, patients should keep their head elevated and apply a cold compress to the eyes. The compress will help minimize swelling and bruising. Doctors will likely prescribe an antibiotic ointment for you to use for one week after surgery to help prevent infection. If postoperative care goes smoothly, doctors typically remove the sutures within 8-10 days. Any bruising or swelling should resolve within 10-20 days.
Doctor Assistance After Eyelid Surgery
While you can care for your eyes after surgery, your doctor must stay engaged and up to date on your recovery. If an issue develops, contact your doctor right away. Throughout recovery, doctors will monitor patients to see whether any complications arise.
If complications occur, such as a hematoma, eyelid malposition, or an infection, doctors may wait until the hematoma dissolves. If eyelid malposition occurs, severity can range from increased scleral show and eyelid retraction to severe ectropion. Certain concerns can develop due to scarring or overresection of the skin. Although rare, infection can occur, worsening eye redness and increasing pain. Infection may present with discharge.
Rules for Recovery
Patients must follow their doctor’s orders to ensure proper recovery. Some of the basic rules for recovery include:
- Refraining from rubbing your eyes
- Avoiding the outdoors as much as possible
- Wearing glasses or protective gear over the eyes to prevent debris
- Avoiding strenuous activities such as running, swimming, or heavy lifting
- Refraining from straining your eyes
- Avoiding showering for several days, so as not to interfere with the eyes
- Taking medications as prescribed by your doctor
- Using eye drops to minimize dryness and swelling
- Prioritizing rest
- Refraining from drinking alcohol or smoking
- Managing discomfort by informing your doctor of any issues that may arise
By following the rules listed above, you may be more likely to have a positive postoperative blepharoplasty experience without complications.
Specific Recovery Instructions
Postoperative instructions for patients may be broad. However, other instructions for post-surgery are more specific and consist of the following:
- Taking over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Removing bandages 24 hours after surgery
- Continuing to use prescribed eye drops
- Attending a follow-up visit with your doctor to determine the progress of recovery
Although patients who receive eyelid surgery need downtime to recover, many see improvement in their eyes after the swelling subsides. Whether excess skin was removed or cosmetic changes were made, patients are responsible for following their doctor’s orders and informing their doctor of any complications they notice.
Receive Eyelid Surgery Today
At Eye Plastic Surgery of Minnesota, we offer a variety of procedures. Our experts have years of experience treating those with eye-related issues. We also offer comprehensive services, including aesthetic, revisional, and reconstructive eyelid surgery. Whether you are seeking an eye lift or removal of dark circles under the eyes, we offer multiple options to consider.
Contact our eyelid surgery center to learn more about the treatments we offer. Speak with one of our professionals, who can answer your questions and walk you through your surgery options.