What to Expect When Having Blepharoplasty Surgery
Anesthesia: Upper blepharoplasty can be done under local or local with sedation. Lower blepharoplasty is typically done under general anesthesia.
Location of Operation: Hospital, surgery center or in-office procedure.
Length of Surgery: 45 minutes for upper eyelids; 1 hour for lower eyelids; 1 ½ hours for both upper and lower together.
Length of Stay: Outpatient procedure.
Discomfort: Mild discomfort requiring 1-3 days of pain medication, if at all. Many patients require only over-the-counter pain relievers.
Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are mild and resolve in 5-7 days. To reduce post-op swelling and bruising, head elevation and frequent application of ice (frozen peas or corn work as well) is crucial the first 48-72 hours.
Antibiotics: One week of antibiotics is prescribed. Antibiotic ointment and eye drops will be provided to you.
Stitches: Upper and lower eyelid stitches are removed in 5 days. There are no stitches to remove for a transconjunctival lower blepharoplasty where the incision is made on the inside of the lower eyelid.
Work: Return to work is common in 5-7 days once the stitches are removed, the swelling has come down and the bruising has resolved.
Exercise: Strenuous exercise can resume in 4 weeks while light activities can start in 2 weeks.
Sun Protection: Scars should be protected from sun exposure for 1 year with at least sunscreen SPF 15 or higher to prevent permanent discoloration.
Final Result: Early results are obvious by 2-3 weeks, while final results are typically reached by 3 months. Scar maturation may take a full year to achieve.
Special Care: Antibiotic ointments are applied to the incisions the first week twice daily. Eye drops containing antibiotic and steroids are also used twice daily the first week. Natural Tears should be purchased and used for lubrication and before bedtime the first two weeks. Water based eye makeup can be applied once the stitches have been removed. NO SMOKING IS RECOMMENDED!!!! If you smoke, quitting at least 4 weeks before and after surgery is best for adequate healing.
back to top |
