Even before the pandemic-influenced “Zoom boom” drove people to improve perceived facial imperfections, eyelid surgery was among the top plastic surgery procedures every year. The surgery’s popularity has only increased with the heightened use of video conference calls. Before scheduling surgery, though, the question on most patients’ minds is, “How long does it take to recover from eyelid surgery?
Upper, Lower, or Both?
Patients may get surgery for their upper or lower eyelids, or both, during the same operation. Recovery for either generally takes 1 to 2 weeks.
- Upper Eyelids: Sagging or hooded upper eyelids create a tired appearance. Our board-certified facial plastic surgeons perform upper blepharoplasty by making an incision within the natural crease of the eyelid, extending to just beyond the corner of the eye. This makes the scar well hidden. The surgeon then removes excess skin and underlying fat before suturing the incision.
- Lower Eyelids: Undereye bags are a common concern for people who want lower eyelid surgery. If excess fat on the lower lid is the only issue, the surgeon can make an incision on the inside of the lid to perform the procedure. An external incision just below the lash line is needed to remove fat and excess skin.
Recovery After Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery is performed using a general anesthetic in most cases. You’ll need a friend or family member to drive you home from surgery. We provide detailed postoperative instructions that, when closely followed, limit the time needed to recover and minimize the risk of complications.
Post-op Comfort: Expect your eyelids to feel tight and possibly watery, dry, sticky, or itchy. It’s very important that you don’t rub them. Most people experience very little pain after the procedure, but our surgeons may prescribe medication to minimize discomfort.
Bruising & Swelling: Bruising and swelling usually peak within 2 to 4 days after surgery and gradually resolve during the first 2 to 3 weeks. Gently applying cold packs can help swelling and bruising and improve your comfort.
Sleeping: Sleep with your head elevated above your chest to minimize swelling and bruising.
Downtime: The downtime needed after eyelid surgery varies a bit from patient to patient, but most people say they start feeling like their usual selves within a few days of the surgery. You’ll likely feel ready to go out in public and back to work in about 10 to 14 days, depending on your job and how you feel about people knowing about your surgery.
Exercise: You can plan to resume exercising about a month after the procedure.
Eye Protection: Wear sunglasses whenever you go outside to protect your sensitive eyes from the sun, wind, and other environmental damage. Take frequent eye breaks when reading, working on a computer, and watching TV to prevent straining your eyes.
Contact Lenses: Wait for your surgeon to clear you for contact lens use. Most people can resume wearing their lenses about 2 weeks post-op.
The Aesthetic Society offers additional information and tips for making your recovery comfortable.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re considering eyelid surgery, you can learn more about the procedure by requesting a consultation with one of our board-certified surgeons using the online form or by calling our Des Moines practice at (515) 277-5555 to schedule an appointment.
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