Recovery After Eyelid Surgery

Recovery after eyelid surgery is faster than most plastic surgery recovery periods. The first day of recovery begins immediately after your surgery. Be sure to have arranged for someone to drive you home after your surgery and help you around the house. You should expect some swelling and bruising which is very normal. It is also common to experience blurry vision and possibly some sensitivity to light. I will most likely prescribe prescription medication for the first 7 days to help with recovery after eyelid surgery and I always recommend ice to help with swelling around the eyes. And when you rest and it is very important to keep your head elevated for the first few days. When you are resting, sit upright or recline with your head elevated rather than lying down. At night, use a few extra pillows to keep your head elevated through the night and sleep on your back.

The day after your eyelid surgery it is not uncommon for swelling and bruising to intensify. This is ok. Continue your medication and rest. And continue to use ice packs around your eyes. If your eyes are irritated, avoid touching them. Use eye lubricant and artificial tears to treat irritation.

By day three, you may begin to notice a reduction in bruising and swelling, especially if you have been regularly using ice packs around your eyes. Through the first week of recovery after eyelid surgery, bruising and swelling will continue to subside and your sutures will be removed in 5 to 7 days. I also encourage very mild activity to help with circulation and healing. But keep your heart rate down.

By some point in the second week, most of my patients feel like they are ready to go back to work. Most of the swelling and bruising is gone and I will let you know when it is ok to wear eye makeup again, usually at some point in the third week.

Any remaining bruising and swelling should be completely gone by the fourth or fifth week and you will be able to start enjoying your new appearance.

If you have any concerns during your recovery after eyelid surgery, we are always available to answer any questions you might have. Simply give us a call or use the contact form below.

If you would like to learn more about eyelid surgery, we’ve covered all the details on our Eyelid Surgery page.