Eyelid Surgery Recovery: What To Expect

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Summary

Saggy eyelids, loose skin, puffiness, under eye bags, and wrinkles can be hereditary or the result of the natural process of aging. Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures requested. Blepharoplasty targets the upper and/or lower eyelids to remove excess skin and fat and address puffiness to give eyes a more rested, youthful, and open appearance. This plastic surgical procedure can be done under local anaesthetic with some oral sedation and is usually completed in 1-2 hours. Recovery from blepharoplasty is fairly straightforward, but here is a guide to healing; what you can expect while recovering and how to speed up recovery times.

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What Is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty can be performed on the upper or lower eyelids. Using a small incision carefully concealed in the natural fold of your eye or inside your lid, your plastic surgeon will remove excess skin and tissue and close the incision with stitches

Who Is An Ideal Candidate For Blepharoplasty?

The ideal candidate for blepharoplasty:

  • Is in good general health
  • Has no eye health issues or severe vision problems
  • Can take some time off for recovery
  • Has realistic expectations for results

If you wish to address a heavy-lidded look, loose skin, excess fatty tissue, puffiness, wrinkles, and sagging in the upper or lower eyelids, blepharoplasty can provide a more rejuvenated, youthful, and open appearance to your eyes. 

Healing After Blepharoplasty

Immediately after your procedure you may experience:

  • Slight pain or discomfort
  • Numb eyelids
  • Swelling and bruising
  • Watery eyes and blurred or double vision
  • Sensitivity to light

It is necessary to have someone who can take you home after surgery and ideal to have someone who can stay with you for the first 24 hours post-op.

Week One:

You will likely have bruising and swelling for 1-2 weeks after surgery. Keep these tips in mind:

  • Avoid exposing your surgical wounds to water for the first couple of days. Bathing is ideal, or showering with a handheld showerhead. After 3-4 days, you can wash your eyes gently with mild soap and water and gently pat dry. 
  • Ice packs can be used carefully (not directly on your skin) to reduce swelling.
  • Rest and sleep with your head elevated for the first week after surgery to reduce swelling and aid in healing.
  • Do not rub or put pressure on your eyes for at least one week.
  • Do not use contact lenses for at least one to two weeks post surgery.
  • Do not use cosmetics or lotion at this time.
  • Avoid strenuous activity and exercise until cleared by your surgeon.

Week Two:

You will likely have your sutures removed 7-10 days post surgery. After this you may:

  • Resume your normal face washing routine
  • Return to work and driving
  • Resume light exercise
  • Shower without restriction
  • Carefully reintroduce cosmetics and lotions with your doctor’s clearance

It is important to remember not to rub your eyes or pick at scabs as your incisions heal as this could impede healing and increase scarring. Ask your surgeon for their recommendation for over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief. And contact your plastic surgeon immediately if:

  • You have increasing pain that is not relieved with OTC medications
  • You stitches become loose or your incision opens
  • You have bleeding from the incision
  • You experience concerning changes to your vision.
  • You experience signs of infection such as:
    • Warmth at the incision site or increased swelling and redness
    • Red streaks at the surgical site
    • Pus draining from the incision
    • Fever

Alberta Plastic Surgery: Rejuvenated, Youthful Eyes With Blepharoplasty

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a fairly straightforward and simple procedure to remove excess skin and tissue around the eyes and impart a more rested, youthful appearance. Healing from eyelid surgery will take some time, but you can expect minimal scarring with subtle, yet impactful results.

Dr. Adil Ladak is a board-certified and top surgeon in Edmonton, Alberta, and is highly skilled in blepharoplasty and other rejuvenating skin treatments and body contouring surgical procedures. Dr. Ladak is a fully qualified Fellow of the Royal Canadian College of Physicians and Surgeons and his team is committed to providing patients with the facts and education to make the most informed decisions about their appearance and health. To explore all of your options for blepharoplasty and tissue fillers to rejuvenate your eyes and for other surgical and non-surgical treatments to help you feel and look your best, visit Alberta Plastic Surgery in Edmonton by booking your complimentary consultation. Call us at 1-780-407-6691 or fill out the form below.

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to see results after blepharoplasty?
A: You will likely notice immediate results due to the extra skin and tissue that has been removed during your surgery. But you will experience some swelling and bruising that could last 2-4 weeks or even longer. You can expect to see the final results from your plastic surgery 2-3 months post-op.

Q: Is blepharoplasty an outpatient procedure?
A: Yes. Blepharoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure and you will go home within an hour or two after your surgery to heal. It is recommended that you have a friend or family member take you home and assist you for the first day or two after surgery. 

Q: Is blepharoplasty covered by my insurance?
A: Alberta Health may cover blepharoplasty if the excess skin of your eyelids impairs your vision and if you are over the age of 65. It does not cover blepharoplasty for cosmetic reasons. Book a complimentary consultation with Dr. Ladak to determine if you qualify for AHS subsidy.