There are many reasons to consider eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, and it’s useful to know what the procedure entails. Some people choose to have their eyelids rejuvenated this way for cosmetic reasons — to counteract aging or genetics. Others may want to improve their vision or alleviate eye conditions.
During the procedure, surgeons remove any excess skin, fat or other problematic tissue from the upper or lower eyelids that creates puffiness or drooping. This can give your eyes a more youthful and bright look. For a superior experience, choose the expert facial plastic surgeons at Miami Plastic Surgery® for your eyelid surgery procedure.
1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions
The first thing you need to make sure of is that you always follow all of the eyelid surgery recovery instructions you receive from your surgeon. These should be your guide so that you make a quick and full recovery.
These recommendations will include cleaning and caring for your eyelids. Our surgeons will also inform you of anything you should look out for that may require you to contact them for an earlier checkup. Adhering to these post-operative guidelines can help you heal faster and enjoy your renewed look as soon as possible.
2. Schedule Adequate Time Off Work
Schedule yourself plenty of time off from your job after eyelid surgery, as you will need to spend time recovering. If you have children to take care of, it may be a good idea to hire a professional minder or ask for the support of a friend or family member. The blepharoplasty recovery period includes one to two weeks of resting and recuperating and up to a few months to complete the healing process. We recommend that you prioritize this healing period, as it can improve your overall results.
3. Manage Swelling and Bruising
To reduce swelling after eyelid surgery, you can use a cold compress or cold pack. Wrap the cold pack in a soft cloth and apply it for 15 to 20 minutes, followed by the same amount of time off and then repeat.
The recovery length of eyelid surgery can be shortened if you don’t overdo things. Always make sure that you get plenty of sleep and use extra pillows so you can sleep with your head in a fully elevated position. Keeping your head raised is good for bruising management and fluid drainage. If you feel something might be wrong or the swelling has not reduced significantly after a few weeks, contact your surgeon for assistance.
4. Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthy
Recovery after eyelid surgery can be supported by a healthy diet. Eating food rich in vitamins and minerals aids tissue repair and can reduce the duration of bruising. It’s also important to stay hydrated after surgery. Drinking lots of water reduces swelling and helps flush excess fluids and toxins out of your system so you can enjoy your rejuvenated eyes sooner.
5. Avoid Certain Activities and Substances
Post-surgery restrictions are designed to support the healing process, and investing in your recovery will have long-lasting benefits. It’s okay to wear glasses during your recovery time but not contact lenses (at least until your surgeon decides it’s okay). You’ll need to take a break from drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, or taking any other types of medication that are not first cleared by your surgeon. It’s also best to avoid rigorous exercise in the first week or two of your eyelid surgery recovery time.
6. Attend Follow-Up Appointments
Make sure to attend all of the post-op checkups scheduled by your surgeon following your blepharoplasty in Miami. This post-operative care is designed to monitor your recovery and provide you with the best possible care and advice. It’s important to follow up after eyelid surgery because everyone’s healing process is different, and your surgeon may be able to offer specific tips and treatments that will improve your final results.
Contact Miami Plastic Surgery® Today to Begin Your Eyelid Surgery Journey
If you follow these post-operative tips, you are setting yourself up for success! To schedule your blepharoplasty procedure with an expert facial plastic surgeon, contact Miami Plastic Surgery® for a consultation. We can guide you through the entire procedure so that you will know exactly what to expect and can relax into excitement about your new look.
