Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is done to remove excess, hanging skin from the eyes. Blepharoplasty can be done for purely cosmetic reasons or it can be done for functional reasons in people whose skin obstructs their vision. Regardless of the reason you choose to have eyelid surgery, knowing your limitations after eyelid surgery will quicken your recovery.
- You should keep your head elevated for the first few days after surgery, including during sleep.
- Drink plenty of fluids, eat lightly, and rest, especially for the first three days after surgery.
- Avoid any straining, bending or lifting for two to three weeks, but especially immediately after the removal of your stitches.
- You should be able to resume normal activities within ten days. Check with your plastic surgeon as to when you can resume your normal exercise program.
- You should not wear contact lenses for one to two weeks after surgery. These guidelines can vary, so follow your surgeon’s recommendations.
- Wear dark glasses when you are outside, as you may be sensitive to sunlight, wind, and other irritants for several weeks.
- You may drive when you are pain-free, no longer taking prescription pain medications, and your vision is back to your baseline.
- You may return to work when the swelling is diminished and your vision is clear. For most people, this occurs one to two weeks after surgery.
Recovery After Other Plastic Surgery Procedures
Sources:
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Eyelid Surgery Recovery. Accessed May 22, 2011.
Saadeh PB, McCarthy JG. Blepharoplasty. In McCarthy JG, Galiano RD, Boutros SG, eds. Current Therapy in Plastic Surgery. Philadelphia: Saunders Elsevier, 2006.
