Eyelid Surgery Recovery

At Ophthalmic Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Inc., our experienced team addresses functional and cosmetic eye concerns with personal attention. Many people choose to have eyelid surgery such as blepharoplasty to improve their appearance. In some cases, eyelid surgery is performed to correct a functional issue, such as ptosis, or to repair damaged tissue after an injury. Whether performed for cosmetic or medical reasons, surgery is something that gets our full focus. From your first consultation in our St. Louis office to your follow up after eyelid surgery, we are here to support you.

If you need or want to have work done on your eyes, you may want to know as much as you can about what to expect after your procedure. Here, we outline the first few weeks of recovery.

Before Surgery

For your recovery from eyelid surgery to go as smoothly as possible, it helps to start planning long before the day of your procedure. Because most eyelid surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis, it is wise to think of home as your own personal recovery center. Make it as comfortable as possible for the few days you may not feel like doing much. Some tips for your home recovery center include:

• Fill your prescription for pain medication before the day of surgery.
• Purchase artificial tears to keep near your bedside.
• Place a few ice packs or bags of peas in the freezer to use to ease soreness.
• Consider loading an audiobook or your favorite music on your phone to keep you occupied.

What to Expect in the First Days after Eyelid Surgery

The first couple of days after surgery are the worst. Fortunately, that doesn’t mean they are bad or incredibly uncomfortable. Most patients notice:

• Mild soreness and tenderness that eases with prescription or over-the-counter pain medication. DO NOT use ibuprofen or aspirin products.
• Swelling and bruising around the eyes may look substantial at this time.
• The day of surgery, the eyes may water a lot and may be sensitive to light. Double vision may also occur but will improve quickly.

Weeks 1 and 2

After the first seven to ten days, bruising and swelling should be significantly less than the early days after surgery. Some patients go back to work after two weeks of rest. However, it is vital to remember the value of self-care. Doing too much after any surgery, including minor eyelid surgery, can impede optimal healing. During the two weeks after surgery, we suggest:

• Elevating the head while resting and sleeping to minimize swelling and support circulation through healing tissue.
• Follow post-op instructions carefully and see the doctor for a scheduled follow-up evaluation.
• No swimming or strenuous activity, including bending and lifting, until cleared after the follow-up visit.
• Limit the use of digital devices and television. The eyes may get fatigued more easily for some time. Listen to your body and don’t push too hard to get back to an old norm.

Schedule a Consultation

Are you in need of eyelid surgery for functional or cosmetic reasons? Call 314-567-3567 to schedule a consultation with us.