Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is the most commonly performed facial aesthetic procedure in the United States and our practice here at W Cosmetic Surgery in Philadelphia. Blepharoplasty is aimed at rejuvenating the appearance of the eyes by addressing issues such as drooping eyelids, excess skin, and under-eye bags.
While the results of blepharoplasty can be transformative, understanding the recovery process is essential for achieving optimal outcomes. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through each stage of blepharoplasty recovery, from the initial preparation to the long-term results, providing valuable insights from Dr. Allan Wulc, a renowned expert in facial plastic surgery.
Before Blepharoplasty Surgery
Preparation is key to a successful blepharoplasty experience. Before your surgery, Dr. Wulc will discuss the various techniques and options available, tailoring the approach to best suit your unique needs and aesthetic goals. You’ll decide together on the technique to be employed.
Many techniques can be used effectively, but everyone’s face is different, so Dr. Wulc will work with you to come up with what he feels is the best approach for you.
Techniques at W Cosmetic Surgery generally include:
- Removal of excess fat alone
- Removal of the fat and some skin
- The addition of fillers or fat to the area under the eyes
- Elevation of the cheeks because of sinking of the face hollowing out the eyes
- Treatment of the lower eyelid wrinkles with a laser
- Combinations of the above
It’s essential to follow all preoperative instructions provided by Dr. Wulc, including avoiding certain medications, nutraceuticals, and herbal remedies you might take daily that might complicate the surgery. Additionally, incorporating other specific nutraceuticals known to promote healing and reduce downtime will be recommended to enhance the recovery process.
Day of Your Eyelid Surgery
On the day of your blepharoplasty, Dr. Wulc will meet with you to review the surgical plan and address any final questions or concerns. Once in the operating room, you’ll undergo sedation and anesthesia before the procedure begins. The surgery itself, regardless of how long it lasts, will seem momentary: you’ll awaken in the recovery room with cold compresses on your eyelids to minimize swelling and discomfort–as though no time had passed.
Post Blepharoplasty: First Hours
In the immediate hours following blepharoplasty, it’s normal to experience blurred vision due to antibiotic ointment applied during and after surgery. We routinely prescribe antibiotic ointment to be used for several days following the procedure to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection. You’ll also be instructed to ice your eyelids regularly and apply ointment as directed to alleviate discomfort and minimize swelling.
At no point should you experience pain that isn’t relieved by Tylenol. If the pain is more substantial, we urge you to call our office. Some patients experience dryness in the early postoperative period, even beginning in the first few hours after the procedure. We suggest that you use artificial tears exuberantly to prevent this till all swelling diminishes and normal eyelid blinking returns–usually within a week.
We are in touch with you daily for about a week after your surgery to answer any questions you have, and you can call us any time or come into the office if there are any concerns.
First Days After Blepharoplasty
During the first few days post-surgery, you may notice bruising and tenderness around the eyes, particularly in the lower eyelids. This bruising typically subsides within one to three weeks, although it may persist longer if fat was added to the lower eyelids. Warm compresses, topical arnica, and specific nutraceuticals recommended by Dr. Wulc can help accelerate the healing process and reduce bruising. We also utilize healing lights and lasers to expedite the healing process.
Eventually, the sutures will need to be removed from your upper lids. The removal is a gentle process that usually happens five to eight days after the procedure, based on your healing. In many cases, we will use sutures that dissolve on their own. Lid crease-forming sutures dissolve and fall out on their own or, in some cases, we’ll remove them when they’ve done their job—usually at three weeks.
First Weeks After Blepharoplasty
As the initial swelling and bruising gradually resolve, you’ll begin to appreciate the transformative results of your blepharoplasty. It’s common for the corners of the eyes to appear slightly pulled up initially, but they should return to their normal appearance within approximately three weeks. While soreness and the sensation of something in the eyes may persist for several weeks, these symptoms typically diminish over time.
When you look in the mirror, you’ll also see bruising, especially down near where your eyelids meet your cheeks. This will gradually clear up over the next one to three weeks—you’ll need to be patient!
The bruising can last up to four weeks. Warm compresses help clear the bruising, as does topical arnica. Another option is our light-based technology that helps with bruising—you can come into the office and have these treatments beginning three weeks after surgery as necessary.
Warning Signs to Look Out for Post Blepharoplasty
While blepharoplasty is generally a safe and effective procedure, it’s essential to be vigilant for any warning signs of complications during the recovery period. Common setbacks may include prolonged bruising, subconjunctival hemorrhage, conjunctival swelling, suture reactions, or allergic reactions to medications.
Additionally, dry eyes or eyelid malpositions may occur in rare cases and will be promptly addressed by Dr. Wulc once observed or reported to ensure optimal healing and outcomes. We work hand in hand with dry eye specialists when necessary to ensure your comfort and eye health.
Lower eyelid surgery should not be painful, though the corners of your eyes can be sore, and you may feel like something is in your eyes for up to one month following surgery. This soreness disappears, though you will feel it for some months if you rub your eyes. It too will go away.
We encourage you to call us for any swelling, any setback you feel you are experiencing, or any questions. The most important thing is to point it out to us.
Schedule a Consultation
In general, cosmetic eyelid surgery can be one of the instantaneous and transformative procedures to refresh and enhance your appearance. Once all the postoperative swelling has gone away and you look your best, we believe you’ll be happy with your decision to have undergone the procedure.
If you’re considering blepharoplasty or have recently undergone the procedure, Dr. Allan Wulc and the team at W Cosmetic Surgery are here to support you throughout every stage of your journey.
With their expertise in facial rejuvenation and commitment to patient care, you can rest assured that you’re in capable hands. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about blepharoplasty and discover how it can enhance your natural beauty and confidence.
