Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a popular cosmetic procedure that can help you appear more energized and youthful. If you’re considering a blepharoplasty, you should know what to expect during the recovery. This will allow you to adequately prepare for your post-op experience.
The Day of the Surgery
Blepharoplasty can be performed under local or general anesthesia. If you undergo blepharoplasty with local anesthesia, your surgeon may also administer IV medications to help you relax. Because of the medications given during the procedure and because the surgery temporarily impairs your vision, you must arrange for someone to drive you home. A friend or family member should monitor you for the rest of the day to make sure you don’t experience complications.
Side Effects After the Procedure
Patients report a number of side effects immediately after a blepharoplasty. You might experience blurred vision, double vision, sensitivity to light, or watery eyes. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort around your eyes are also normal. Your healthcare team will monitor you for a few hours after the surgery to make sure you don’t have any abnormal or dangerous complications.
Time Off After Blepharoplasty
You should plan to take at least a week off of work after your blepharoplasty. If you work a strenuous job, you may need to wait two weeks or longer before resuming work as normal. In the first few days following the surgery, you might also need help with tasks like cooking or cleaning. Give yourself plenty of time to rest and heal so that your body can fully recover.
Caring for Yourself After Surgery
Your doctor will instruct you on how to care for yourself after blepharoplasty. You might have to stop taking certain medications that increase your risk of bleeding. You’ll be prescribed eye drops or ointments to help with the recovery process, and you should regularly ice your eyes for at least three days after the surgery. Avoid rubbing your eyes as the area is healing, and sleep with your head elevated for a few days. It’s also important to protect your eyes from wind, rain, sunlight, and other outdoor elements. If you have to go outside in the days following your surgery, you should wear sunglasses and a hat.
Results of Blepharoplasty
Swelling and bruising around your eyes is normal after a blepharoplasty, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t notice the results right away. The swelling should mostly disappear within two weeks, at which point you should start to notice a difference in your appearance. However, the final results may not be visible until six weeks after your blepharoplasty.
Schedule a Consultation
Dr. Melanie Aya-ay offers blepharoplasty at her Tampa, FL practice. Our team is proud to help our patients achieve their aesthetic goals and increase their confidence. If you’re looking for blepharoplasty in Tampa, contact the office of Dr. Aya-ay today to schedule your consultation.
