Before you undergo blepharoplasty to fix droopy eyelids, you should find out what to expect during recovery. This way you know when you will see the final result.
If you plan to get blepharoplasty performed so you can look younger and a little more alert in general,
you should first find out how to recover from this treatment. You should know that while this procedure only involves your eyelids, you still need some time to heal, which will mean that you have to take at least a few days off work. You should find out the exact facts about recovery for this surgery from your doctor, but until then, consider the basics.
This surgery usually only requires the use of local anesthesia, unlike many treatments involving surgical incisions, so you can likely drive yourself home afterward. Just ask your doctor for sure whether this is a good idea, as the pain medication given to you may make driving inadvisable. Once you arrive home, you should rest, making sure to protect your eyes since they will likely not be bandaged or otherwise covered. You do not have to lie down the whole day, but you should at least relax at home. Also, apply cold compresses and take any prescribed medication. If your physician has given you antibiotic eye ointment, use it as often as you are advised.
During the first day or so, you can expect some oozing of blood. As long as it is not excessive, you probably do not need to call your doctor. You will also notice lots of bruising and swelling the day after blepharoplasty, at which point you can start using warm compresses instead of the cold kind. Not surprisingly, your vision will be a little blurry, but if you can read or watch TV at this time, go ahead since it is not dangerous while you heal. Just try to avoid bending over, getting vigorous exercise, or getting the incision wet. You can, however, apply eye drops during this time since the area may feel dry after blepharoplasty.
About three or four days after blepharoplasty, you can begin walking around the neighborhood, but you should avoid jogging or running for a week, and do not swim for two weeks. If you want to go out during this time, try to wear sunglasses while outside, and consider wearing some concealer to hide the bruises. Do not apply makeup to the eyes, though, until about two weeks after the blepharoplasty. You cannot usually wear contacts until at least a week after the surgery. Therefore, if you do not wish to go out without makeup or contacts, do not plan any events for at least one week after the operation. You will find this recovery period worth your time once you see the final results of the procedure; so try to be patient until then.
Once the bruising and swelling disappear, you will be able to see the outcome of surgery. This may take a few weeks, but it differs for everyone. Talk to your doctor for a good estimate of how long it will take you to see the final results. The scars should fade a little each month, and should be barely noticeable after a few years. In fact, for most patients, the scars are very hard to see even shortly after the surgery since they are hidden within the eye creases.
