Are you going for Upper Blepharoplasty, also known as an eyelid lift? If you have excess fat, muscle, or skin on the upper eyelid, you can do away with it with this surgical procedure. This can be performed for cosmetic reasons, such as for vision improvement, reducing the signs of aging, etc. One of the most common facial surgeries is conducted more on women than men. Generally, it is needed when women are in their 50s.
Complete Guide on Upper Blepharoplasty Recovery
While the process is quite successful, you might experience some issues while in the recovery stage of Upper Blepharoplasty. Here are a few things to expect during this phase:
Day 1–2
This is when you are in the immediate recovery stage after the operation.
Day 3–7
It is the time when the inflammation is at its peak after the operation and also begins to subside.
Day 7–10
In this stage, the surgeon removes the sutures. You can begin to wear makeup again, without experiencing any issues.
Week 2–4
During this time, you can safely get back to normal activities. Still, try not to do something strenuous or anything that can reduce or impair your healing.
Week 4–6
Swelling subsides fully at this stage. You can enjoy a normal life without the upper eyelid problems that you experienced earlier.
Here are some general tips and recommendations to ensure the best recovery for yourself in the post-surgery stage:
Try to reduce swelling
Keep your head elevated to reduce swelling as much as possible. Even as you sleep, keep your head raised with two pillows.
Soothe discomfort with various measures.
You might experience some discomfort in the operated areas. Try to soothe discomfort by applying cold compresses for 10–15 minutes at a time. Do not exert any pressure on the operated site. Also, do not rub your eyes.
Manage your pain
Make use of codeine-based medications or paracetamol and other pain relievers. Do not use ibuprofen or aspirin which can increase your bleeding risks.
Ointments and eye drops
Keep your eyes moist and try to prevent infection with prescribed ointments and eye drops.
Showering
After surgery, you are allowed to take a shower from the neck down. However, you need to wait for some time until your surgeon says that you can safely take a full shower. This is generally allowed around 5 days after surgery.
Using makeup
You may use makeup and creams on the other parts of your face. However, for 2 weeks after the operation, you should refrain from makeup application to your operated area.
Wear sunglasses
Exposure of your eyes to sunlight can lead to pain, redness, and irritation. You have to protect your eyes from sunlight and need to put on large polarized sunglasses to do that.
Avoid excessive screen time.
Try to give the least strain to your eyes. For this reason, spend only minimal time on your computer or smartphone. Minimize reading on an iPad or watching TV, so that healing is not affected in any way.
Work out in moderation.
For the first 2 weeks at least, you should try to avoid swimming, going to the gym, running, or taking part in other strenuous exercises.
Bottom Line
Upper Blepharoplasty can be successful and safe if you stick to all the necessary tips and aftercare instructions as best practice. Choosing the best surgeon for eyelid lift is crucial for achieving the desired outcomes. It can work wonders to help you heal as fast as desired and get back to a normal lifestyle in a matter of a few weeks. While most people feel comfortable being active and going out in public after 1 – 2 weeks, others might need a few months for complete healing. You have to allow enough time for your body to ensure this and enjoy the best results.
