Blepharoplasty Recovery: What to Expect After Eyelid Surgery

If you are considering blepharoplasty, understanding the recovery process is an important part of making an informed decision. This guide covers what recovery from eyelid surgery typically involves, how long it takes and the risks to be aware of.

Every patient's recovery is different. Your surgeon will give you advice specific to your procedure and health.

What Is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is a surgical procedure on the upper and/or lower eyelids. It may involve removing or repositioning excess skin, muscle and fat.

Upper blepharoplasty may be performed for functional reasons, such as when excess upper eyelid skin affects your field of vision, or for cosmetic reasons. Lower blepharoplasty is usually performed for cosmetic reasons.

At Australian Skin Face Body, blepharoplasty is performed by Mr Ian Holten (MED0001130662) MBBS MD FRACS FRCS (Plast) Lon, registered medical practitioner, specialist plastic surgeon (specialist registration in Surgery – plastic surgery).

Before Surgery: Preparing for Recovery

A referral from your GP is required to see Mr Holten. Before surgery, you will have at least two consultations, where Mr Holten will:

• Assess your eyelids, eye health and medical history

• Discuss your concerns, expectations and whether surgery is appropriate for you

• Explain the procedure, risks, recovery and alternatives, including non-surgical options or no treatment

• Provide a written quote covering the total cost, including surgeon, anaesthetist and hospital fees and aftercare

There is a cooling-off period between your consultations and surgery to give you time to consider your decision. We encourage you to seek a second opinion from another appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Practical preparation may include arranging time off work, organising someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first night, and stopping certain medications or supplements if advised.

Blepharoplasty Recovery Timeline

The timeline below is a general guide only. Your recovery may be faster or slower depending on the type of surgery, your health and how your body heals.

The First 48 Hours

• Swelling and bruising around the eyes, usually at their most noticeable on days two and three

• Tightness, discomfort or a gritty feeling in the eyes

• Watery or dry eyes, and blurred vision from ointment

• Cold compresses and keeping your head elevated, including while sleeping, are usually recommended

• Pain relief as prescribed or advised by your surgeon

Week One

• Swelling and bruising begin to settle

• Stitches are usually removed around five to seven days after surgery

• Avoid bending, heavy lifting and strenuous activity

• Avoid eye makeup and contact lenses

Weeks Two to Three

• Most visible bruising has faded for many patients

• Many people return to desk-based work within 10 to 14 days, depending on their recovery and job

• Light activity can usually be resumed, with strenuous exercise reintroduced gradually once your surgeon advises

• Eye makeup and contact lenses may be resumed once your surgeon advises

Weeks Four to Six

• Most swelling has settled, though some mild swelling may remain

• Scars are usually pink and will continue to fade

Three to Twelve Months

• Remaining swelling continues to settle

• Scars continue to mature and fade over 6 to 12 months

• Your final outcome may not be clear until this time

Blepharoplasty Aftercare

Following your aftercare instructions is important for recovery. General aftercare may include:

• Using cold compresses as directed in the first few days

• Sleeping with your head elevated

• Using eye drops or ointment as prescribed

• Keeping the incision lines clean and dry

• Avoiding rubbing your eyes

• Wearing sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from sun and wind

• Avoiding smoking, which can slow healing

• Attending all follow-up appointments

Contact the clinic promptly if you notice increasing pain, swelling on one side, changes in vision, bleeding or signs of infection. In an emergency, call 000.

Potential Risks of Blepharoplasty

All surgery carries risks. Risks of blepharoplasty may include:

• Bleeding, including bleeding behind the eye (rare but serious)

• Infection

• Dry eyes or irritation

• Difficulty fully closing the eyes, usually temporary

• Lower eyelid pulling down or turning outward (ectropion)

• Asymmetry

• Visible or raised scarring

• Temporary blurred or double vision

• Changes in sensation around the eyelids

• Loss of vision, which is very rare

• Risks associated with anaesthesia

• The need for further surgery

Mr Holten will discuss the risks relevant to you during your consultations.

Is Blepharoplasty Covered by Medicare?

When upper eyelid surgery is performed for a functional reason, such as excess skin affecting your vision, a Medicare rebate may be available if clinical criteria are met. Blepharoplasty performed for cosmetic reasons is not covered by Medicare. Mr Holten will discuss eligibility and costs with you during your consultation.

Realistic Expectations

Individual results vary and depend on factors including your anatomy, skin quality, age, genetics and how you heal. Surgery is not the only option for eyelid concerns, and it is not right for everyone. Your consultations are a chance to talk through all your options, including non-surgical alternatives.

Book a Blepharoplasty Consultation in Geelong or Ballarat

To book a consultation with Mr Ian Holten, you will need a referral from your GP. Learn more about blepharoplasty at ASFB, or call 1300 502 732.

All surgical procedures carry risks. Individual results vary. Before proceeding, seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. A referral from your GP is required.