After blepharoplasty, what can you expect?
Patients seeking blepharoplasty surgery often have questions about the recovery period. If you look at lower or upper blepharoplasty recovery photos day by day, you’ll see that patients go through a range of stages before all the swelling goes down and they have their final results.
Blepharoplasty patients want to know: Will I be able to see? Will I be swollen? Will I be in pain? When can I drive again? What should I eat? When can I return to work?
These are all useful questions to get answers to, and while it’s always best to discuss them directly with your plastic surgeon, it can be helpful to do a bit of your own research as well. Below, we’ve listed some of the most frequently asked questions we receive regarding blepharoplasty recovery. Let’s check them out and learn more about the healing process after this highly sought-after plastic surgery.
How long does blepharoplasty recovery take?
The initial eyelid surgery recovery period typically lasts 10-14 days, during which swelling and bruising are most noticeable. Full recovery, including fading of scars, can take a few months.
Will I have visible scars after blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty scars tend to be minimal and usually well-hidden in the natural crease of the eyelid. Over time, scars tend to fade and become nearly invisible, especially with proper care and sun protection.
When can I return to work after blepharoplasty?
Most people experience a blepharoplasty recovery time of around one to two weeks, so they can return to work within about 7 to 14 days, depending on the nature of their job and the extent of their surgery.
How soon can I resume intensive exercise after blepharoplasty?
Strenuous activities, including exercise, should be avoided for at least two to four weeks following surgery. Too much physical activity can increase blood flow and raise your blood pressure, which we don’t want at this time.
Will I experience pain during my blepharoplasty recovery process?
Pain after any type of cosmetic surgery is typical. After blepharoplasty it’s usually mild and can be managed with pain medication.
How can I reduce swelling after blepharoplasty?
Applying cold compresses in the first few days can help minimize swelling. Keeping your head elevated and avoiding salty foods also aids in reducing fluid retention around the eyes.
When can I wear contact lenses again?
You’ll need to avoid wearing contact lenses for at least two weeks after surgery to promote proper healing. Once the swelling on your eyelid skin has reduced and your eyes feel comfortable, you can gradually start using them again with your surgeon’s approval. You should also wear dark sunglasses whenever going outdoors after surgery.
Are there any dietary restrictions after blepharoplasty?
There are no strict dietary restrictions, but staying hydrated and avoiding salty foods can help minimize swelling. A diet rich in vitamins and nutrients will aid healing.
What will I look like after blepharoplasty?
Right after surgery, you’ll be swollen and bruised. Sometimes, this will extend down the cheek. You’ll also be wearing a compression band around your head. Your surgeon will tell you how to wear this (for how long and whether to change bandages out).
We also recommend looking up before and after pictures online to see how you will look. For example, if you underwent a lower eyelid surgery, look up day by day one week lower blepharoplasty recovery photos to see examples of what you’ll look like as your heal from this particular surgery.
If you underwent a different variation of eyelid surgery, such as Asian blepharoplasty or an upper eyelid surgery, you can certainly look up eyelid surgery before and after photos for these variations as well.
When can I shower after blepharoplasty?
You can usually shower the day after surgery, but avoid getting the incision sites wet for at least 48 hours. When washing your face, be gentle and avoid rubbing the eye area to protect the healing skin and incision sites.
What are common side effects during blepharoplasty recovery?
Common side effects include swelling and bruising, temporary blurry vision, and mild discomfort. These symptoms typically resolve within 1-2 weeks, though subtle swelling may persist longer.
What should I avoid during blepharoplasty recovery?
Avoid rubbing your eyes, exposing them to direct sunlight, strenuous activities, and smoking during recovery. These activities can interfere with healing and may increase the risk of complications or scarring.
Call Today to Schedule a Consultation
A consultation appointment is necessary before we can schedule you for eyelid surgery. At your appointment, you’ll learn more about how to qualify for eyelid surgery, and Dr. Ashley Steinberg will want to perform a short physical exam and talk to you about your medical history.
Dr. Steinberg is a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in facial plastic surgery as well as body contouring and breast procedures.
Ready to schedule your consultation? Give our office a call today to set up your one-on-one consultation for blepharoplasty with Dr. Steinberg!
