An eyelid surgery has the potential to offer a patient much needed aesthetic and medical upgrades to this area of the face. This has made the various forms of blepharoplasty some of the more popular procedures available in the plastic surgery world.
However, many patients don’t take into account the fact that eyelid surgery entails a somewhat lengthy recovery period. Accounting for this period is essential for ensuring that you maintain the results you’re looking for.
If you have eyelid surgery planned, take a look at this guide that lets you know how long to plan for your recovery period, as recommended by a board-certified plastic surgeon.
What Is an Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery refers to a group of procedures intended to assist enhance the appearance of the eyes. There are numerous varieties of blepharoplasty, each with distinct goals in mind.
For instance, whereas an upper blepharoplasty targets the upper eyelids, a lower blepharoplasty aims to improve the lower eyelids.
It will be possible for you to determine during your pre-operative consultation what kind of eyelid surgery is best for you. This is the time when you and your doctor plan the surgery.
After Your Procedure
There are many possible effects that a patient might feel after their eyelid surgery is complete. Much of this has to do with the fact that the incisions that your physicians make will need to heal over time, which can create a set of symptoms in their aftermath. This process can look very different depending on the nature of the patient’s constitution, as well as the exact type of eyelid surgery that was incurred.
Some of the common symptoms that are often experienced by patients during this recovery period include the following:
- Tightness and soreness in the eyes
- Watery eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Stickiness
- Itchiness
- Blurry vision
In this period, it’s important to keep your eyelids clean and avoid rubbing them. In addition, your physician might give you medication to help you deal with any pain and discomfort you might be experiencing.
How Long Does Eyelid Surgery Take to Heal?
If your surgical sites have been closed with stitches, then your doctor will likely attempt to remove them in approximately 5 to 10 days. On top of this, you can expect your eyelids to be swollen and bruised for approximately 1 to 3 weeks after your procedure is complete.
In general, most patients can expect the final results of their procedures to appear in about 1 to 3 months. Prior to this stage, most patients will feel better and ready to return to their daily activities in about 10 to 14 days. However, during this time period, you might still exhibit mild symptoms of recovery, including bruising and inflammation.
Tips for Taking Care of Yourself During Your Recovery Period
There are many steps you can take in order to ensure that you don’t threaten your own results. Some of the below steps are considered protocol in this regard:
- Keep your incision area clean and dry
- Keep your bandages on your site as long as your doctor suggests
- Follow your doctor’s directions in terms of both prescribed and over-the-counter medications
- Follow your doctor’s orders in terms of taking any pain medications
- Avoid overexposure to the sun
- Avoid swimming, hot tubs, gardening, and dusting for several weeks
- Avoid engaging in overly strenuous physical activity for approximately two weeks following your procedure
- Don’t get your hair colored or permed for about a week after your procedure
- Avoid rubbing your eyes for about two weeks following your procedure
- Do not wear eye makeup for about two weeks following your procedure
- Drink plenty of fluids following your procedure
- Get plenty of rest following your procedure
- Keep your head raised for several days following your procedure
You should stay aware of the signs that you might be experiencing issues with your surgery results. Some of the signs something might be amiss include these symptoms:
- Incision site is bleeding
- Have incessant pain following your procedure
- Are experiencing signs of infection
- Have loose stitches
- Experience the symptoms of a blood clot, including pain in your calf, knee, thigh, or groin.
- Experience changes in your vision
- Don’t get better in the expected timeline
Orange County’s Best Eye Surgeon
OC Oculoplastic is Southern California’s best destination for effective upper blepharoplasty. If you’re interested in receiving this type of treatment, contact our office today to schedule an appointment and start looking your best as soon as possible.