Tips for a Successful Blepharoplasty Recovery

Cosmetic surgery requires the patient to adhere closely to certain guidelines in order to recover quickly and healthily from the procedure. Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, calls for the same guidelines as any other surgery, but due to the nature of the surgery, the patient will need to take additional precautions. The procedure itself is relatively simple and if both eyes and all four eyelids are operated on, the procedure lasts approximately an hour and a half without complications.

Immediately After Surgery

The first task that a surgeon will perform after the procedure, is applying a protective ointment and dressing to the eye of the patient. This will cause blurred vision that will last for approximately a day. Some pain and discomfort may be present as the anesthesia wears off.

As your full use of your eyes will be temporarily weak during the healing process, patients who undergo blepharoplasty are advised not to drive and are actually prevented from doing so. Therefore, make sure to arrange for a designated driver ahead of time.

Seven to Ten Days After the Procedure

The first week or so after recovery is the most important period of recovery time. In order to prevent infection, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics to the patient. The patient must also monitor their temperature to detect any rise or fever, which may indicate infection.

The patient must be sure to take the pain medication that the doctor has prescribed in case of discomfort. Many common painkillers like aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen will worsen any bleeding, and should be avoided. Dr. Schwarcz will prescribe you appropriate pain medications that minimize bleeding.

The patient should get lots of rest and not engage in excessive activity during this period of recovery. Keep the head elevated to prevent swelling. Dr. Schwarcz will advise you how to clean around the eyes while the incisions heal.

Later Stage Recovery

Vision will continue to be blurred during the healing process. Eyeglasses may be worn immediately, but contact lenses must wait until two weeks after surgery. Eye makeup can start being worn at this time as well. Any swelling or bruising should clear up as well.

The patient may start to engage in heavier activity after the first 10 days, but strenuous activity or sports with risk of physical impact, especially to the face, must wait until the doctor gives their approval.

Schedule an appointment to receive a consultation with oculoplastic cosmetic surgeon Dr. Robert Schwarcz who is also a board-certified ophthalmologist.