Eyelid Surgery Recovery: How Long Does It Take, and What Should I Expect?

If bulging, sagging, or wrinkled eyelids interfere with your confidence or your ability to see fully, blepharoplasty has a lot to offer. Close to 90% of patients who’ve chosen this cosmetic eyelid surgery report post-procedure satisfaction. 

At our offices in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, and Rye, New York, oculoplastic surgeon Robert Schwarcz, MD, specializes in blepharoplasty. Knowing what to expect as far as recovery can help you prepare and give you peace of mind. It might even help ensure the best potential results.

Causes of eyelid complaints

Eyelids often change with the passage of time. With increasing years, your skin naturally loses elasticity due to reduced collagen and elastin production. 

If you’ve spent a good deal of time in the sun without protection from ultraviolet (UV) rays, your skin is likely to age much faster. Smoking also accelerates skin aging. 

All of these factors can bring on bulging, drooping, and wrinkled eyelids. You may also be prone to sagging eyelids, from early on or as you age, for genetic reasons.

Blepharoplasty basics

Blepharoplasty improves the appearance of your upper or lower eyelids so you can see better or feel more confident about your appearance. During the procedure, Dr. Scwarcz makes tiny incisions in or around your eyelids. He then moves or removes excess fat and tightens muscles around your eyes for a sleeker look or better function.

Eyelid surgery is typically performed under local or light sedation anesthesia so you remain comfortable. And any scarring is both minimal and hidden, thanks to Dr. Scwarcz’s careful technique.

Eyelid surgery recovery

After your sedation wears off, you can expect to have some amount of bruising and swelling. In general, while the initial healing phase can last 2-4 weeks, people feel comfortable going out within 10-14 days of eyelid surgery. Full healing, however, can take several months.

To ease any discomfort during your recovery, you can gently apply a cold compress. You may also receive an antibiotic ointment to stave off infection along with specific aftercare instructions from our team. Following those care steps closely helps ensure a positive overall experience.

Eyelid surgery results

While individual results vary, blepharoplasty results may last for 5-7 years or even indefinitely. Still, your eyelids will continue to age with the rest of your body. To minimize those effects, wear a hat or sunglasses when you spend time outdoors – especially when the sun is highest in the sky, from about 10am to 4pm.

We offer additional treatments to enhance your eye region as well, such as Dysport® for crow’s feet and brow lifts to address drooping.

To learn more about eyelid surgery and its recovery or to find out if you’re a good candidate for the procedure, contact Robert Schwarcz, MD, today.