Blepharoplasty Recovery Tips

After an upper or lower eyelid lift, also known as a blepharoplasty, you’ll need time to recover and heal. Most patients take one to two weeks off work. After the initial recovery, you’ll want to continue to limit certain activities until your surgeon gives you the all clear.

Recovering from surgery can be a bit uncomfortable, as you might be dealing with some post-operative pain, swelling, and in the case of eyelid surgery, some dryness or itchiness in the eyes. There are a few things you can do to make your recovery time a bit more comfortable.

1. Keep Your Head Up

Swelling and bruising occur after eyelid surgery due to fluid buildup in the area. Time is the main remedy, but you can help it along. Keep your head elevated so fluid doesn’t pool around your eyes. Instead of lying flat, use several pillows to prop your head and neck up while resting. A recliner also makes it easier to stay upright. A cold compress around the eyes helps with swelling and discomfort.

2. Let Your Eyes Rest

Your eyes need rest after blepharoplasty. Activities such as watching TV, reading, or using a computer can strain your eyes and cause unnecessary discomfort. For the first few days, limit screen time and choose activities that don’t require you to focus your eyes. Audiobooks and podcasts are good ways to pass the time while your eyes heal. Keeping your eyes closed and using a cold compress can also help alleviate dryness and irritation.

3. Limit the Salt Intake

Cutting back on salt can help reduce swelling after blepharoplasty. Sodium causes the body to retain excess fluid, which can lead to increased puffiness around the eyes. Processed foods, take-out meals, and pre-packaged options tend to be high in sodium, so it’s best to prepare meals at home with fresh ingredients. Cooking and freezing a few low-sodium meals before surgery makes the first days at home easier.

4. Protect Your Eyes

After an eyelid lift, protect both the healing skin and the eyes themselves from the sun. Your eyes may be more sensitive to bright light in the weeks following surgery, so wearing sunglasses whenever you go outside is highly recommended. Sunglasses also provide protection from airborne irritants like dust and pollen, which could cause discomfort or irritation. Lubricating eye drops help if your eyes feel dry. Avoid rubbing or touching the area, and don’t wear eye makeup or contact lenses until Dr. Naderi clears you.

5. Add Activities Slowly

You may feel ready to get back to your routine soon after surgery, but ease into physical activity gradually. Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and anything that raises your blood pressure for about a month. Short, gentle walks starting a day or two after surgery are fine and help circulation. Check with your surgeon before going back to workouts; most patients are back to full activity by about three months.

6. Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions

You will receive detailed post-operative instructions for your specific case, and following them closely matters more than anything else on this list. These guidelines may include how to care for your incisions, when to resume certain activities, and what medications to take or avoid. Ignoring post-surgical care instructions can lead to complications or delayed healing. If you have concerns or notice anything unusual, call the office right away.