Everyone’s recovery from blepharoplasty (a.k.a., eyelid surgery) is unique, based on factors such as their age, health, skin type and the specific procedure that was performed. Although Dr. Michael McCracken of McCracken Eye and Face Institute cannot predict with complete accuracy what your recovery will be like, he will provide detailed aftercare instructions and guidelines to adhere to after surgery. What follows is a general idea of what to expect after blepharoplasty.

Post-Operative Side Effects

Swelling and bruising are completely normal after eyelid surgery. The severity of these side effects depends largely on the procedures that are performed — i.e., if you have your upper and lower eyelids treated, you will probably have more swelling and bruising than someone that only has their lower lids treated.

There may be slight discomfort immediately after surgery, but pain medication can be taken as prescribed by Dr. McCracken if needed.

Keeping your head elevated and applying cold compresses to your eyes can help minimize swelling within the first few weeks of recovery. It’s also important to protect your eyes from the sun during the healing process.

Many patients find that the worst of their side effects subside within about two weeks. The swelling can take two to three months to fully resolve.

Resuming Work and Socializing

How soon you will be able to go back to work will depend on the nature of your work. In general, if you have a physically strenuous job, you will probably need to take more time off after surgery than someone with a desk job.

You may feel great soon after surgery and return to the office within a few days or a week. Or, you may prefer to take 10 days to two weeks off from work; at that point, you can probably conceal any residual bruising with makeup.

Resuming Exercise

You will be advised to avoid strenuous activity and exercise during your initial recovery. Slowly, you can incorporate walking and other gentle movement into your daily routine and gradually add in more activity. It is likely that you will be able to build up to your normal exercise habits approximately three to four weeks after surgery.

Complications after eyelid surgery are very rare as long as you follow Dr. McCracken’s instructions carefully.

Contact Our Denver Eyelid Surgeon

For more information about recovering from eyelid surgery, please call or email McCracken Eye and Face Institute today.