Potential Side-Effects of Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid blepharoplasty surgery can greatly help enhance and revive a youthful appearance by tightening loose, sagging skin around your eyes. However, there will be a temporary period of discomfort while you recover from the surgery. With natural-looking results, the discomfort should subside during the recovery period. Your cosmetic oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Robert Schwarcz will explain more about what you can expect after the surgery for a swift recovery. Below are some potential side effects of eyelid blepharoplasty that patients should be aware of in preparation of this cosmetic procedure.

 Pain, bruising, and swelling. A certain level of pain is inevitable after any surgery. Follow your surgeon’s recommendations for pain-relieving medication. Some surgeons recommend the use of cold compresses to help with post-surgical pain and swelling, but others say the cold may damage the delicate skin around the eyes. If you do use cold compresses, be careful to use them only briefly. Bruising and swelling around the eyes should clear up in a week, although some minor swelling may persist for longer. Excessive swelling, or swelling that becomes hot and inflamed, can be a sign of infection. Call your doctor immediately if this happens.

 Dry or itchy eyes. Even after the pain from cosmetic blepharoplasty has subsided, you may still experience temporary itching and dryness in your eyes. This can be treated with anti-itch cream on the eyelids and lubricating drops in the eyes.

 Light sensitivity. Your eyes will probably be sensitive to light for a few days after eyelid blepharoplasty. If you have to go out in the sun, wear dark sunglasses and preferably a wide-brimmed hat to help protect your eyes. This will also help hide the incisions.

 Scarring. Surgical incisions always produce scars, but properly performed eyelid blepharoplasty surgery should not result in obvious, visible scarring. The incisions are very small and made in places where they will be hidden by the natural features of the eyes, such as along the upper fold of the eyelid and beneath the lower lashes. Your cosmetic surgeon will make every effort to minimize and hide any scars that result from the surgery.

Be sure to ask your doctor any questions that you may have about your cosmetic blepharoplasty. Attend all scheduled follow-up visits so you can be sure of getting the best results from your surgery. After the healing process is over, you can enjoy your beautiful, bold new eyelids.