If your upper eyelid is drooping or has sagging skin, you might be considering an upper blepharoplasty. This surgery has become a common way to correct the shape of the upper eyelid, and is successful in restoring patients’ confidence. However, because it’s on such a visible and sensitive part of your body, you may be wondering, “How long does it take to see the final results of an upper blepharoplasty?” Below, we will dive into what exactly to expect from this procedure.
What Is Upper Blepharoplasty?
Upper blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure used as a remedy for droopy eyelids or excess eyelid skin. As we age, we can develop sagging eyelids due to the stretching and weakening of the muscles and skin around the eyes. There are even some cases where this can impair vision. In this surgery, the excess skin is removed or repositioned, which helps both the appearance and function of the eyes. Upper blepharoplasty is a popular choice for those looking to restore a youthful look.
The Healing Process
To figure out how long the healing will take, it is a good idea to understand exactly what healing looks like after the surgery.
- Immediately after surgery: You will likely have swelling, bruising, and discomfort. The height of these symptoms is the first 48 hours, during which you will be able to ice and painkillers.
- First week after surgery: Avoid exerting yourself and follow the surgeon’s instructions to avoid complications. At this point, it is reasonable to expect the initial swelling to begin subsiding.
- End of the second week: Most patients see a substantial improvement! The signs of surgery, such as bruising, on your face become less noticeable. That being said, you may still feel some tenderness to your eyelids. Patients feel comfortable enough to go back to work and return to their regular activities.
At this stage, it is important to remember complete healing is still in progress.
When Will You See the Final Results of Upper Blepharoplasty?
Every individual can heal at slightly different rates. But, for most, after six to eight weeks the swelling and bruising resolves.
However, as your eyelids adjust and the tissues completely heal, it can take up to three to six months for the final shape to settle. That much time can feel somewhat frustrating, but it is really important to remain patient during this time. Results that have a subtle, natural change in your eyelid can take a few months to really show. Remember, this is a surgical procedure, and healing from surgery does take some time.
Factors That Can Affect Healing Time
Of course, there can be things that vary per person that affect healing time, such as:
- Age: Younger individuals tend to have skin and muscles with greater elasticity, which usually leads to a faster healing time than older patients.
- Overall health: You may heal faster if you are in good health, so be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions.
- Smoking: Your circulation can be affected by smoking, which can slow down the healing. It may be worth quitting before surgery, which you should discuss with your surgeon.
- Surgeon skill and experience: A highly skilled and experienced surgeon that you trust can help make sure that you have a smooth recovery by performing a thorough preoperative assessment!
Be sure to follow all postoperative instructions that your surgeon outlines and to discuss any concerns you have.
After 3-6 Months
Once three to six months have passed after surgery, most patients will have fully healed, and you should be able to see the final result! Overall, your eyelids should look far more natural, and the dropping or sagging should be corrected.
Also, it is important to manage your expectations regarding what the surgery can achieve. While results are long lasting, the aging process cannot be stopped. To make your results last even longer you must maintain good skin habits – having a skincare routine, wearing sunscreen, and avoiding too much sun exposure.
See a Surgeon
The healing process may sound or feel long, but remember that many have opted for this surgery and have come out feeling more confident and refreshed in their look. If this surgery is something you are seriously contemplating, talk to an eyelid surgeon further about your situation and what you can expect from the healing timeline!