Blepharoplasty is a safe and effective way to rejuvenate the appearance of the eyes and help patients achieve a more youthful look. Before undergoing any surgical procedure, you should know the recovery process to prepare yourself mentally and physically.
Dr Nick Koutroumanos at London Ophthalmology and Ophthalmic Plastics is a highly skilled and experienced surgeon. We’ll help you achieve your desired results in the shortest time possible.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From Blepharoplasty?
The recovery process is different for everyone. Most patients feel well enough to return to normal activities after one week following standard blepharoplasty surgery. You experience some bruising and swelling around the eyes after the eyelid procedure, but it resolves over time. One way to help with post-surgery recovery is by placing cold compresses on the eyes and using eye ointment or lubricating drops to help with discomfort.
Stitches are removed shortly after surgery. During this time, you should avoid strenuous activity or contact sports to allow your incisions time to heal. It would be best to avoid exposure to sunlight or bright lights, as this irritates the eyes.
Following your surgeon’s instructions during recovery is advisable for optimal results. We provide all our patients with specific instructions on caring for their eyes after surgery.
Factors That Affect Recovery Time
Age
As you age, your skin becomes thinner and less elastic, taking more time to heal from surgery. Since the skin surrounding the eyes is susceptible, the recovery period after eyelid surgery is lengthier in older patients.
Extent of Surgery
It takes longer to recover from surgery if you have a more extensive procedure, such as lower and upper blepharoplasty. When the upper and lower eyelids are operated on, the incisions are wider, and there is more tissue to heal.
If you only have a small amount of skin removed, your recovery time is shorter than with a more extensive procedure. Swelling and bruising are more for extensive procedures, increasing the recovery time.
The Type of Blepharoplasty
If you have an endoscopic blepharoplasty, which is a minimally invasive procedure, you have a shorter recovery time than a traditional eyelid surgery. Endoscopic surgery has no visible incisions, leading to minimal swelling and bruising. Traditional eyelid surgery involves incisions along the lash line, taking longer to heal.
Your Overall Health
Patients with diabetes or other medical conditions that affect healing have a longer eyelid surgery recovery time. If you are healthy, you can expect to recover from surgery more quickly.
Your Body’s Ability to Heal
Everyone heals at different rates; some people recover faster than others. Many factors, including your genetics, determine the body’s ability to heal.
How You Take Care of Yourself After Surgery
You heal faster when you follow your surgeon’s recommendations and care for yourself following surgery. These include:
- Getting Plenty of Sleep. Sleep helps the body heal. Get at least eight hours of sleep every night to improve your recovery.
- Eating a Healthy Diet. Eating a healthy diet helps the body heal. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein to promote healing.
- Taking Your Antibiotics as Prescribed. This helps prevent infection.
- Applying Cold Compresses. It reduces swelling and bruising.
- Wearing Sunglasses. This protects your eyes from the sun and wind.
- Quit Smoking. Smoking decreases the blood flow to the skin and delays healing. If you smoke, quit at least two weeks before surgery.
Improve Your Appearance and Vision Through Eyelid Surgery
If your vision is impaired or if you are unhappy with the appearance of your eyes, eyelid surgery may be right for you. It improves your vision and self-confidence by making your eyes look younger and more alert. Recovery times vary from patient to patient, but with proper care, you can expect to recover quickly and enjoy your new look.
At London Ophthalmology and Ophthalmic Plastics, we individualize blepharoplasty surgery to meet your specific needs and goals. We will work with you through the entire process to get you the best possible results.
