All surgeries require a recovery period to allow the body to properly heal itself. This applies to cosmetic surgeries, too. When a person has a blepharoplasty procedure, otherwise known as an eyelid lift procedure, they are subject to a recovery period just like any other procedure that involves incisions. Fortunately, you can prepare for this procedure and the recovery time involved to help speed along the recovery process for the best results.
The eyelid lift procedure is often done as an outpatient procedure, but can also be done with an overnight stay in the hospital. A qualified surgeon will help to make this decision for the good of their patient. Should you end up staying overnight in the hospital then you will likely have more help caring for the surgical area than you would at home without professional staff, but the recovery process will be similar either way.
You should discuss your concerns and questions with your surgeon before the eyelid lift procedure to help you better prepare for it. Your surgeon will give you suggestions and orders for caring for yourself in the recovery period following the operation. Here are a few of the things to expect following your surgery and some tips for recovery period care.
During the recovery period you may notice irritation, tenderness, dry eyes, bruising, swelling, and general discomfort. These are normal reactions to the procedure. Excessive pain or fever are not normal signs and should be reported immediately to your surgeon.
You may be given lubricating ointment or topical medications to apply to the area that was operated on. You may also be prescribed pain medications as well as oral medications to stave off infections and help with healing. Do not neglect these in caring for yourself. It’s important that you follow through with these medications and topicals. If at any time you have questions or concerns then you should never hesitate to contact your surgeon.
The bruising and swelling can be controlled with the suggested ointments as well as cold compresses. Again, irritation and tenderness is to be expected so there is no need for concern when you notice this after the anesthesia has worn off from the eyelid lift procedure.
It’s important that you protect yourself from the sun following your surgery. Stay out of the sun as much as possible and invest in a large pair of sunglasses that completely covers the incision area. Make sure the sunglasses are darkly tinted for optimal protection. This will not only protect your eyes and skin from the UV ray damage, but also help reduce the appearance of surgical scars as your skin heals from the procedure.
It’s likely that after ten days or so you will be feeling well enough to return to work. Be careful in applying makeup following the surgery as this can slow the healing process. You may be feeling much better, but you still need to exercise caution within the first month following your eyelid lift procedure. Activities that increase blood flow to the eye region should be avoided within this month. This includes activities such as sports, jogging, lifting, and bending. You should also avoid crying as much as possible as this can irritate the area. Consult with your surgeon to find out when it is safe for you to resume this type of physical activity.