Eyelid Surgery Recovery Period Timeline

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is one of the more common procedures that the surgeons at Jefferson Plastic Surgery perform. The procedure can be done to either the upper or lower eyelid.  It is designed to remove excess fat and skin around the eyes, as well as reduce the appearance of circles under the eyes.

Eyelid surgery will result in eyes that look refreshed and alert. Unlike other facial rejuvenation procedures, such as a facelift, an eyelid procedure is far less invasive, with a quicker recovery timeline. Nevertheless, it is still a surgical procedure, from which the body needs time to heal. It can be all too easy for patients to become impatient to see the final results from their eyelid procedure. We have included a recovery timeline, so that patients can have a good idea of what to expect. To learn more about eyelid surgery recovery, contact our Philadelphia practice today.

One to Five Days after Surgery

Patients will experience bruising and swelling around the eyelids. If the skin was tightened, this should start to subside within three to five days. If fat was also removed from the eyelids, this will take one to two weeks to subside. Ice and cold compresses can be placed over the closed eyelids to reduce the severity of bruising and swelling.

Sutures are generally placed within the natural folds of the upper eyelid following along the lash line for the lower lid. These will be removed anywhere from two to five days following surgery and will not require bandages afterward.

Most patients can return to work within five days after surgery. Patients may wish to wear some concealer make-up until the bruising fully goes away. However, make-up should not be applied until the incision has fully closed.

One to Four Weeks after Surgery

By the end of the second week, the majority of the bruising and swelling should begin to dissipate. Patients should be able to resume normal activities such as driving and attending work or school.

Regular eye make-up and contact lenses can be worn after one week.

A moderate exercise routine can be resumed starting two to three weeks after surgery. However, particularly strenuous exercise, such as weightlifting, should probably wait until four to six weeks after surgery.

One to Two Months after Surgery

Patients will get an initial idea of the final results from their surgery by about four to six weeks after the procedure. The eyelids may still not have conformed to their final shape, which can take up to eight weeks.

Two Months and Beyond

By this time, the eyelids should be almost completely in their final shape. However, patients should continue to use sun protection on the eyes for up to six months after the surgery. Large sunglasses should be worn when outside, along with sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. This will prevent any suture scars from being more noticeable, as they may be lighter or darker than the surrounding skin.

Eyelid surgery can do wonders to revitalize the appearance of the face. Giving the body the time it needs to heal from such a procedure will only enhance the final outcome.