What Can I Expect During Blepharoplasty Recovery?
Blepharoplasty can have dramatic results for your appearance, turning back the clock and giving you a huge boost of confidence. Plus, because it is a less invasive surgical procedure, blepharoplasty recovery is quick and involves minor discomfort. At our Buffalo, NY, practice,
David A. Sherris, MD, performs several types of eyelid surgeries. Innovative techniques like the pinch method can help shorten recovery time and further reduce discomfort.
When you come in for a consultation at The Clinic of Facial Plastic Surgery, Dr. Sherris will explain more about what to expect following blepharoplasty. He will also provide specific guidelines to make your recovery as smooth as possible.
How Long Does Blepharoplasty Recovery Take?
The exact time you need to recover from eyelid surgery will depend on the type of procedure you select.
- Traditional blepharoplasty is designed to address sagging skin in the upper or lower eyelids. You can usually return to work a week after the procedure, although some swelling and bruising may persist for up to two weeks.
- Transconjunctival blepharoplasty addresses puffiness under the eyes, rather than sagging skin. Recovery from this procedure takes a bit longer, with many patients taking ten days off of work. Again, swelling may not fully subside for several weeks.
- The pinch technique is the least invasive type of blepharoplasty. It can eliminate sagging skin, but it does not affect the underlying fat or muscle structure. You will usually have your stitches out in about five to seven days, and you can go back to work in approximately one week.
What Are the Side Effects of Eyelid Surgery?
As with all surgeries, you should expect to experience some side effects following blepharoplasty. These can include:
- Swelling and bruising around your eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Dry, sticky, or gritty eyes
- Blurred vision
- Excess tearing
Most of these symptoms should be gone by the time you return to work. Eye drops can help keep your eyes comfortable while you are healing.
How Should I Care for My Eyes During Recovery?
In addition to using eye drops, there are certain steps you can take to reduce side effects, protect your eyes, and improve the results of your treatment:
- Take all medications and clean your eyes as directed by Dr. Sherris
- Do not rub your eyes while you are healing
- Sleep with your head elevated for a few days
- Use cold compresses to decrease swelling and discomfort
- Do not wear eye makeup or contacts for at least two weeks
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for one to two weeks
- Avoid hot tubs and swimming for at least 14 days
What Results Should I Expect?
Many patients notice an improvement in their appearance as soon as the initial swelling begins to go down. Results will continue to improve over the next several weeks and months. This is especially true if you opted for a more extensive form of surgery that addresses muscle structure, as well as sagging skin. When the final results are apparent, most patients feel that the surgery and recovery time was a worthwhile investment.
Contact Us to Learn More About Blepharoplasty Recovery
Do you have additional questions about eyelid surgery and what you can expect? Dr. Sherris and his team at The Clinic of Facial Plastic Surgery are always happy to answer questions and discuss individual concerns. Contact us or call our Buffalo office at (716) 884-5102.