Eyelid surgeries, or blepharoplasties, are incredibly popular cosmetic surgeries with over 200,000 of these procedures performed in 2018. In fact, it is in the top five of the most popular cosmetic surgeries done in the United States. However, when you are considering this procedure for yourself, these numbers do not mean as much to you as do the numbers for your own recovery. You may be wondering how quickly you can expect to recover and when you can plan to be back at work.
The First Day
Your eyelid surgery will be done as an outpatient procedure, and you will only have an hour or two to recover at the surgery center before you are sent home for the rest of your recovery. You may find that you have some discomfort that first day, but this should be easily controlled with over-the-counter pain medications or with a prescription medication from your surgeon. You will also have bandages around the area and some swelling that keeps you from seeing your real results.
The First 48 Hours
Recovery from an eyelid surgery usually happens quickly, and the first 48 hours are the most important period for you to take care of yourself well. You may want to use cool compresses to relieve swelling, and you will definitely want to keep your head elevated even while sleeping. You will be able to move slowly around your house, however, and do a few very light activities.
The Next Week
Most patients return to work after one week. Before that time, you will want to keep your activities light. In addition, it is vital that you follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully and return for follow-up appointments. At your one week follow-up, you will probably have your stitches removed.
Two Weeks and Following
By two weeks, you will probably be back to doing most of your usual activities although you will still have to hold off on very vigorous exercise. Keep in mind that it can take a while for your body to return completely to normal. It may be several weeks to months before the swelling will go away altogether and you will be able to see your final results.