Eyelid lift surgery, clinically called blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure to rejuvenate the appearance of eyes. Recovery is an important part of this procedure, and the patient should diligently follow the surgeon’s instructions in the post-operative phase to achieve a safer and faster recovery. At the time of initial consultation, the surgeon will discuss all aspects, including recovery.
Dr. Eric Yavrouian is a fellowship trained facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon and board certified otolaryngologist providing eyelid surgery and various other procedures. Patients in Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Greater Los Angeles CA, and surrounding locations have an opportunity to receive blepharoplasty from Dr. Yavrouian.
Immediate Post-Operative Phase
Eyelid lift cosmetic surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. Patient should have someone to drive them back home after the surgery. Just after the procedure, the patient’s eyes may be covered with bandages for some time. Once the bandages are removed, the attending staff will apply cold compresses or lubricating ointment to keep the patient comfortable.
Detailed post-operative instructions will be provided to the patient before they leave for home. Pain medications and antibiotics to minimize infection risk will be prescribed for a few days. The first follow-up appointment may be fixed as per surgeon’s advice.
Minor swelling, bruising, itching or dry eye condition is likely to occur during the first few days of the recovery. Medications, ointments and cold compresses can be used as advised to manage these conditions. The surgeon may also prescribe eye drops to prevent dry eye.
Recovery in the First Few Weeks
The patient should avoid watching TV, reading, or surfing the Internet during the first week to minimize strain on the eyes. Excessive strain can cause dry eyes. As far as possible, the patient should maintain the head in an elevated position in the first few days to keep the bruising and swelling to a minimum. The surgeon may remove sutures at the end of the first week.
At this time, the patient may be able to return to their regular activities or go back to work. Dark sunglasses should preferably be worn for the first month when the patient leaves home. This will offer protection against sun and wind and minimize irritation. Frequent naps in the first few weeks can be useful because the eyes can get adequate rest.
Bending, lifting heavy weights, and strenuous exercises should be avoided for two to three weeks following blepharoplasty. The blood flow to the eyes should not be excessive until the recovery is complete. Facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Yavrouian receives patients from Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Greater Los Angeles CA, and nearby areas for eyelid lift surgery.
Overall Recovery Period
While the patient can resume most of their normal activities after the first week, it will be several weeks before they recover completely. It will take time for the redness and swelling around the eyes to fade away entirely. Over a few months after the surgery, the results will establish progressively and the eyes will appear more youthful and alert.
For more information about treatments and procedures by Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr. Eric J. Yavrouian, serving patients in and around Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank and the Greater Los Angeles, CA area call 818-241-2150 or click here to contact him for a consultation.
