Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic surgery that aims to improve the appearance of your eyelids by removing excess skin and muscle from around your eyelids. Blepharoplasty recovery is one of the most important aspects as it’s important that you get a lot of rest.
Recovery from blepharoplasty can take up to 2 weeks, however, your stitches are removed quickly, within a couple of days or up to a week following surgery. This surgery can help reduce the appearance of sagging, wrinkles, and bags under your eyes, giving you a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance. If the extra skin around your eyes is impacting your vision, then blepharoplasty can help improve your vision issues.
Blepharoplasty scars are a common concern for many patients undergoing eyelid surgery. While there will be some scarring after the surgery, healed blepharoplasty scars are usually tiny and well-hidden in the natural creases of your eyelids. To minimise scarring and promote faster healing, follow your postoperative care instructions from Dr Doyle carefully.
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Facial Rejuvenation
Blepharoplasty Recovery Process
Blepharoplasty recovery time can vary from patient to patient, depending on the extent of the surgery and other individual factors. However, there are some general guidelines that most patients can expect to follow.
Day 1-2 After Surgery
During recovery after blepharoplasty, many patients wonder what blepharoplasty recovery day by day will look like for them. Your surgery will require general anaesthesia so plan for someone to drive you home and care of you for the first 24 hours.
Immediately after the surgery, for both upper blepharoplasty recovery and lower blepharoplasty recovery patients may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising around the eyes. Ice packs or cold compresses can be applied to the eyes to help reduce swelling and bruising.
Dr Doyle will prescribe pain medication and instructions on caring for the incisions and keeping your eyes clean. He may also prescribe eyedrops to help promote healing and prevent infection. You may need to wear a special dressing for your eyes for the first few days. Within 2-7 days following surgery, your stitches will be removed.
During this recovery time period, you will need to avoid strenuous activities. For the upcoming two weeks, ensure that you get adequate rest and sleep. Sleep with your head elevated on 2-3 pillows or as instructed by your surgeon.
Week One Blepharoplasty Recovery
After one week blepharoplasty recovery you will continue to get as much rest as possible. You should avoid bending over, lifting heavy objects, or engaging in any physical activities that could increase blood pressure or cause strain to the eyes. After the first week, most patients are able to return to work or other activities, although some residual swelling and bruising may persist.
Week Two Blepharoplasty Recovery
By the end of the second week of the healing process, most patients can resume normal activities except for strenuous activities that could strain their eyes. Patients should avoid rubbing their eyes or wearing contact lenses for several weeks after the surgery.
It is important for patients to follow their surgeon’s instructions carefully during the recovery process. This may include avoiding certain medications, keeping the eyes clean and dry, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns. By following these guidelines, patients can ensure a safe and successful recovery from eyelid surgery.
Month 1-3 Post Surgery
4 weeks post blepharoplasty your incisions will continue to heal. Around this time you can begin to safely wear makeup and engage in more strenuous physical activities. You may feel that you have delicate skin around your eyes but the skin will continue to mature. You will begin enjoying your results after a month or two and notice your scarring improving.
Blepharoplasty Scars
Blepharoplasty scars are different from other types of scars because the incisions are made along the natural crease of the eye and after some time become virtually invisible! Of course, you’ll still need to care for your scars properly during your recovery.
Part of your post-operative care will include a scar management plan. The placement of the blepharoplasty scars you have will depend on which blepharoplasty you undergo.
For lower eyelid blepharoplasty recovery your scars will be located under your eye, there will be very minimal scarring and blend in as if the scar is part of the crease under your eye. Upper blepharoplasty scars will also be very minimal and blend in with the crease above your eye.
How Blepharoplasty Scars Form
During eyelid surgery recovery your scars will initially be raised and tough. The scars will mature and soften over the next few months. For optimal results, you need to consider factors that may impact your healing process.
There are many factors that influence the formation of scars such as:
- Genetics – you may be genetically at risk for keloid scars.
- Skin Type – the darker your skin is on the skin type scale you will be at a higher risk for more visible scarring.
- Overall health and diet – your skin heals more quickly when you are in good health and are consuming lots of nutrients.
- Sun exposure – the sun can darken scars.
Tips to Reduce Scars After Blepharoplasty Surgery
With proper care, you will notice any visible scars continue to improve, so it’s crucial you follow your postoperative instructions. Many patients notice fading scars after about a month.
For the best possible outcome:
- Use sun protection such as sunblock or hats to avoid your scars darkening.
- Apply silicone sheets or scar creams to your incisions as recommended by your surgeon.
- Rest and nourish yourself! Take proper rest and eat whole nutritious foods.
- Don’t smoke – this increases your risk of infection!
- Avoid activities that put stress on your eyes until Dr Doyle has cleared you to resume strenuous activity.
FAQs
How long does it take for final results to be visible after blepharoplasty recovery?
The blepharoplasty recovery timeline can vary from person to person, but you should see your final results after about 6 months.
Can blepharoplasty be combined with other cosmetic procedures?
Yes! Blepharoplasty can be combined with a face lift, brow lift and many other surgeries. If you’re interested in having combination surgery mention this during your consultation to discuss all of your options.
Next Steps
Now that you’ve reviewed the recovery time for blepharoplasty, are you ready for the next steps? If you would like more information or want to book a consultation with Dr Doyle, please contact our office today. We look forward to helping you achieve beautiful, natural-looking results.
About Dr Mark Doyle FRACS (Plast) – Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Dr Mark Doyle is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over thirty years of experience. He specialises in face lift surgery in Gold Coast and Brisbane, and also offers a range of body and breast procedures.
Dr Doyle is a fully qualified Doctor and surgeon. He has completed all required training to be a Specialist Plastic Surgeon and is driven by an committed to providing excellent standards of care.
NEXT STEPS
Do Your Research
- Read the Website and Blogs relevant to your procedure
- Read our Frequently Asked Questions
- Learn about the Risks and Complications of Surgery
- Download our Plastic Surgery Guides
- Browse Dr Doyle’s YouTube Channel
What to Bring to Your Plastic Surgeon Consultation
- Bring a friend or relative for support and discussion regarding your choices
- Take notes and read all provided information thoroughly
- Read about what to expect in your Initial Surgery Consultation
Book Your Plastic Surgery Consultation
- Get a Referral from your GP or specialist – this is required to book a consultation with Dr. Doyle.
- Email us or call on 07 5598 0988 to arrange your consultation appointment.
- Pay your $285 Consultation Fee in advance to secure your consultation.
Please contact us to arrange to book a consultation with our Specialist Plastic Surgeon or to speak with our Patient Care Advisor.
Send an enquiry form today or phone 07 5598 0988 during Clinic Hours.
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*DISCLAIMER: All information on Dr Mark Doyle website is general and is not intended to be medical advice nor does it constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Results can vary significantly and depend on individual patient circumstances. All images on this website, unless specified as real patient images, are stock images used for illustrative purposes only. Surgery risks and complications will be covered in detail during a consultation with your surgeon. Book a consult for details regarding your cosmetic surgery procedure.
Dr. Mark Doyle AHPRA Registration: Dr Mark Doyle MED0001375519 Specialist Plastic Surgery – MBBS FRACS FRCS
