If you recently had eyelid surgery or you are planning one soon, understanding the recovery process can make everything feel much less stressful.
This eyelid surgery healing guide walks you through what to expect after blepharoplasty, including swelling, bruising, activity restrictions, and scar care. Taking care of your eyelids properly during recovery plays a big role in achieving the best possible results.
Contents
- 1 The First 72 Hours After Eyelid Surgery
- 2 Cold Compresses
- 3 Ointment and Eye Care
- 4 Activity During the First Week
- 5 Sleeping Position
- 6 Pain Control
- 7 Showering After Surgery
- 8 Weeks 2 Through 6 After Blepharoplasty
- 9 Scar Management After Eyelid Surgery
- 10 Final Thoughts on Eyelid Surgery Recovery
- 11 Eyelid Surgery FAQ (Blepharoplasty Questions)
- 11.1 What is the difference between upper and lower blepharoplasty?
- 11.2 What is quad blepharoplasty?
- 11.3 How do I know if I need upper, lower, or quad blepharoplasty?
- 11.4 Do you accept insurance for blepharoplasty?
- 11.5 How long is recovery after eyelid surgery?
- 11.6 How long do bruising and swelling last after blepharoplasty?
- 11.7 Will blepharoplasty improve my vision?
- 11.8 Will there be visible scars after eyelid surgery?
- 11.9 How does lower blepharoplasty treat under-eye bags?
- 11.10 Can eyelid surgery be combined with other cosmetic procedures?
The First 72 Hours After Eyelid Surgery
Swelling and bruising are completely normal after surgery. Some mild oozing from the incision sites can also happen early on.
Cold Compresses
Cold compresses are one of the most important parts of early recovery. They help reduce swelling, minimize bruising, and ease discomfort.
You can use:
- A clean washcloth placed in ice water and wrung out
- A refrigerated cooling eye mask
- An ice pack wrapped in a clean cloth
Apply for 15 to 20 minutes every hour while you are awake for the first 48 to 72 hours.
If you notice minor bleeding, gentle pressure with a cool compress is usually all that is needed.
Ointment and Eye Care
You will apply Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment to the incision lines.
Before applying, wash your hands thoroughly. Use a small amount about the size of a grain of rice and gently spread it along the incisions. This is typically done three to four times per day.
It is very common for your vision to feel blurry after applying the ointment. This is temporary. If your eyes feel dry or irritated, artificial tears such as Systane or Refresh can help.
Activity During the First Week
For the first week, keep activity light.
Avoid bending over, lifting heavy objects, strenuous exercise, or anything that significantly raises your blood pressure. Increased pressure can worsen swelling and bruising.
Walking, reading, watching television, and normal use of your eyes are perfectly fine.
Sleeping Position
Keeping your head elevated is very important during the early healing phase.
You can sleep in a recliner or use two pillows to keep your head above the level of your heart. This helps reduce swelling and lowers the risk of additional bruising.
Pain Control
Most patients experience the most discomfort the first night after surgery.
Tylenol or Advil can be used as directed on the bottle.
By the next morning, discomfort is usually much more manageable.
Showering After Surgery
You may shower the day after surgery.
It is safe for the area to get wet, but avoid soaking it for long periods. When drying your face, gently dab the surgical area instead of rubbing.
Weeks 2 Through 6 After Blepharoplasty
Healing continues gradually over the next several weeks.
Makeup can usually be applied around two weeks after surgery once the incisions have healed.
Most patients return to their normal gym routine at about two weeks, depending on how they are healing.
Contact lenses can typically be resumed one week after surgery. If you had ptosis surgery, you should wait six weeks before wearing contact lenses again.
Bruising often lasts two to three weeks. It may shift downward on the face as it fades, which is normal.
Scar Management After Eyelid Surgery
Any incision will leave a scar, but proper care helps minimize its visibility.
We recommend Fade Away to support scar healing and improve the appearance of incision lines. You can learn more about it here: Fade Away
Final Thoughts on Eyelid Surgery Recovery
Every patient heals a little differently. Swelling, bruising, and temporary tightness are all part of the normal healing process.
If you ever have questions or concerns during your recovery, contact our office. We are here to guide you through each step and make sure your healing stays on track.
Eyelid Surgery FAQ (Blepharoplasty Questions)
What is the difference between upper and lower blepharoplasty?
Upper blepharoplasty removes excess skin and tissue from the upper eyelids to improve hooding and create a more open, refreshed appearance. Lower blepharoplasty addresses under-eye bags, puffiness, and loose skin under the eyes to create a smoother and more youthful lower eyelid contour.
What is quad blepharoplasty?
Quad blepharoplasty is a combination of upper and lower blepharoplasty performed during the same surgery. It treats all four eyelids at once, providing complete eyelid rejuvenation with one recovery period.
How do I know if I need upper, lower, or quad blepharoplasty?
If you have drooping or hooded upper eyelids, upper blepharoplasty may be appropriate. If your main concern is under-eye bags or puffiness, lower blepharoplasty may be the best option. If you have concerns in both areas, quad blepharoplasty may provide the most balanced and comprehensive result. A consultation is the best way to determine the right surgical plan.
Do you accept insurance for blepharoplasty?
No, we do not accept insurance. In some cases, upper blepharoplasty may qualify for insurance coverage if excess eyelid skin is causing documented vision obstruction. However, lower blepharoplasty and quad blepharoplasty are considered cosmetic procedures and are not covered by insurance.
How long is recovery after eyelid surgery?
Most swelling and bruising after eyelid surgery improves significantly within 1 to 2 weeks. Many patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities after 10 to 14 days. Final results continue to refine over several weeks, with most patients seeing their healed appearance around 6 weeks.
How long do bruising and swelling last after blepharoplasty?
Bruising typically lasts 2 to 3 weeks after blepharoplasty. Swelling is usually most noticeable during the first week and improves gradually over several weeks. Mild residual swelling can persist longer, depending on individual healing.
Will blepharoplasty improve my vision?
Upper blepharoplasty can improve peripheral vision if excess skin was blocking the visual field. Lower blepharoplasty does not typically affect vision, but it can improve the appearance of under-eye puffiness and tired-looking eyes.
Will there be visible scars after eyelid surgery?
Upper blepharoplasty scars are typically hidden within the natural eyelid crease. Lower blepharoplasty scars are placed just below the lash line or inside the eyelid. In most cases, eyelid surgery scars heal very well and become difficult to notice over time.
How does lower blepharoplasty treat under-eye bags?
Lower blepharoplasty improves under-eye bags by removing or repositioning excess fat and tightening the surrounding skin. This smooths the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek and reduces puffiness beneath the eyes.
Can eyelid surgery be combined with other cosmetic procedures?
Yes. Blepharoplasty is commonly combined with procedures such as brow lift, CO2 laser resurfacing, or other facial rejuvenation treatments. Combining procedures can improve overall results and reduce the need for multiple recovery periods.