People of all ages can seek help with their eyes to improve overall appearance. Experiencing problems with your eyes is anything but comfortable. Eyes are sensitive organs that can be affected by many things, including improper sleep and a lack of hydration. Because some people have heavy lids or droopy eyelids, there are many ways to correct the problem without having to undergo anesthesia and surgery.

In this guide, we find out Does Eyelid Surgery Hurt, how much does eyelid surgery cost, is eyelid surgery permanent, and is eyelid surgery safe.

For many people, the mere mention of surgery is enough to bring thoughts of pain and discomfort to mind. That’s not surprising considering that most medical and cosmetic surgeries too considerably longer to perform, required the use of archaic techniques and practices and involved long and painful recoveries.

Thankfully, that’s no longer the case. Anyone tired of being misunderstood, mistreated, or looking older than they are in spirit because of baggy, droopy, heavy eyelids should consider eyelid surgery at our clinic. Is it painful? No, it’s not. Here’s why:

The skin on the eyelids is the thinnest on the body and it’s full of sensitive nerve endings. Though the sound of surgery on this area may seem frightening, Dr. Hershcovitch takes exceptional precautions to ensure each eyelid surgery patient has a painless and comfortable experience, from start to finish.

How Is Pain Prevented During Eyelid Surgery?

Patients may receive general anesthesia which puts them to sleep or a local anesthetic that allows them to stay awake during their procedures. The type of pain prevention/sedation used is dependent on the procedure type and the surgeon’s recommendations. The procedure is minimally invasive, so there are no big or deep incisions. The surgeon uses tiny, superficial incisions to further minimize the risk of any pain, bruising, discoloration, or pain during and after the procedure.

Many same-day blepharoplasty procedures take two hours or less to complete. Procedures involving extensive work or multiple procedures may take longer and generally require the use of general anesthesia.

Is Blepharoplasty Recovery Painful?

The procedure itself is not painful. Overall postoperative eyelid surgery discomfort tends to peak in some patients within the first 36 hours before gradually residing. Though eyelid surgery is minimally invasive, it, just like any surgery is a stressful event for the body to go through. The following symptoms are also common during recovery and often resolve within the first two weeks.

Certain over-the-counter anti-inflammatories and pain relievers are effective at reducing pain and inflammation but should be avoided without proper guidance and clearance from Dr. Herschcovitch. Also, the removal of eyelid surgery stitches is relatively painless. Most patients describe it as a slight pulling or tugging on their eyes. Patients who undergo minor eyelid revisions may receive dissolvable sutures instead.

Preventing Discomfort After Eyelid Surgery

Cold or warm compresses are also effective at reducing swelling and discomfort and providing greater peace of mind. Dr. Hershcovitch may also prescribe an antibiotic ointment or medicated eye drops and other medications to minimize the risk of infection and complications and facilitate comfort during recovery. Limit activities that strain the eyes, such as reading or using digital screens for prolonged periods. To further reduce the likelihood of pain, eye fatigue, and muscle soreness after eyelid surgery, patients should rest, maintain a proper diet, increase hydration, comply with all recovery instructions, and attend all follow-up appointments.

Does Eyelid Surgery Hurt

Blepharoplasty under local anesthesia is also known as our “Awake” Eyelid Lift. It is an advanced version of a familiar procedure because the patient is given just a local anesthetic at the start of the surgery rather than a general anesthetic that would render them fully unconscious. Often, our “Awake” patients are given a relaxing sedative, too, to keep them serene and at ease for the duration of the operation. However, as the name implies, patients are entirely awake during the surgery. Blepharoplasty under local anesthesia leads to a shorter recovery and better outcomes than a traditional eyelid lift. Though it may seem counterintuitive at first, in fact, an Awake Blepharoplasty is a simpler surgery with far fewer complications than the sleepy, old alternatives.

We’re always on the lookout for what’s new in aesthetics at Valley Plastic Surgery. Read our blog to keep an eye on the latest advancements.

About Droopy Eyelid Surgery

Blepharoplasty is surgery to lift and tighten droopy eyelids so that patients appear younger and more alert. Ptosis of the eyelids is when sagging skin below the brow is so severe that it impairs your vision. People with mild to acute ptosis can appear lethargic, grumpy or otherwise disengaged from the world around them. Blepharoplasty under local anesthesia is the safest and most effective way to remove excess skin from around the eyes. 

Can Blepharoplasty Be Done Under Local Anesthesia?

Yes, blepharoplasty under local anesthesia represents one of the most recent and significant developments of the technique. General anesthesia can create its own complications which an Awake Eyelid Lift cleverly avoids. The Awake procedure is easier on the body, so recovery is rapid and results are ravishing. Local anesthesia only numbs pain signals at the surgical site, so the patient is completely conscious during the procedure. For most patients, it may be preferable to administer a sedative in addition to the anesthetic to gently pacify any anxiety associated with the surgery.

If you prefer, you can set up a virtual consultation, as well.

Dr. Alyson Wells founded Valley Plastic Surgery & Medi-Spa to bring the most compelling breakthroughs in aesthetic medicine to the people of Baltimore. She is a regional leader in plastic surgery who is boldly questioning old assumptions about the efficacy of general and local anesthesia. Schedule a consultation and see all she can do for you. Open your eyes to a new kind of plastic surgery by calling (410) 628-8200.

Before and After Photos

Benefits of Blepharoplasty

Both age and heredity play a role in creating droopy eyelids. Some people are simply born with excess skin around their eyes. Additionally, as we get older, skin becomes lax as the collagen and elastin fibers that support your skin begin to break down. If you have allergies or infections, they compound the situation even further.

Droopy eyelids and make somebody appear drowsy, distracted and much older than they really are. Blepharoplasty removes the extra skin around the eyes and lifts the remaining skin taut around the temples. The procedure highlights your sparkling eyes and grants you a sharper, more interested appearance. Politicians, professors and other aging professionals who believe their droopy eyes betray their inner vigor will all see benefits from blepharoplasty. 

An Awake Blepharoplasty grants further benefits because it is one of the most advanced versions of the procedure being practiced today. General anesthesia can often create complications for an otherwise elegant procedure, like an eyelid lift. Patients actually experience less pain under local anesthesia because there is less scarring and bleeding after the operation. Less scarring and bleeding also leads to more refined results.

Qualified Candidates

Eyelid surgery is best suited for healthy individuals who seek to lift the veil that enshrouds their eyes so that they can make crisp and sincere eye contact with others. So much of our personality and intention is communicated through our gaze. That’s why many of our blepharoplasty patients enjoy a lifestyle or take part in a profession that involves leading, persuading or engaging with others.  

Your Personal Consultation at Valley Plastic Surgery 

She is a double-board-certified plastic surgeon and a recognized regional expert in the delicate art and science of facial reconstruction. Our inviting offices will put you at ease while you undergo a brief physical examination and intake interview. When your consultation concludes, we will qualify your candidacy for our Awake Eyelid Lift.

Contact us for a consultation and you’ll see why Valley Plastic Surgery & Medi-Spa is the right choice. Call (410) 628-8200 to schedule your appointment in the Baltimore area. You can also set a virtual consultation to see the doctor if you are traveling or out of town.

Preparation & Procedure

To properly prepare for any surgery, we strongly advise that you avoid taking medications or supplements that can exacerbate bleeding during and after your operation. Nicotine and tobacco smoke delay healing and can result in scarring, as well. This is the perfect time to give up the habit.

Some Medications and Supplements to Avoid Before Surgery

Before your surgery day, be sure to fill any prescriptions and to stock up on essentials like toilet paper and easy to prepare meals. Driving and shopping are among the activities that you will be advised to avoid for your first couple of days after the operation. So be prepared.

How Long Does Blepharoplasty Surgery Take?

In the hands of an expert surgeon like Dr. Wells, an Awake Eyelid Lift will take two hours or less. The procedure begins when the local anesthesia is administered through a series of strategic injections around the eyes. Most patients will then be given an oral sedative or IV sedation. Once you are sufficiently numbed and relaxed, Dr. Wells will begin her incisions.    

What are the Benefits of Blepharoplasty?

From a functional standpoint, sagging eyelids, whether caused by age or genetics, can impair your field of vision. By tightening the eyelids, blepharoplasty can restore your vision, including compromised peripheral (side) vision.

Cosmetically, a blepharoplasty can dramatically restore a youthful, well-rested appearance by removing loose and sagging skin that can make you appear tired and sad. The procedure also works by tightening drooping eyelids, smoothing out wrinkles near your forehead, and eliminating puffy under-eye bags. There is also some recent evidence that eyelid surgery may even offer some relief to migraine sufferers.

What is the Process of Blepharoplasty Surgery?

Blepharoplasty surgery, or eyelid bag removal surgery, is an outpatient procedure that tightens sagging skin around the eyes. Blepharoplasty is a simple, straightforward procedure that can be performed on the upper and lower eyelid.

During the surgery, your doctor will make a small, well-placed incision. Through that little opening, your doctor will be able to remove excess skin, fat, or muscle. Incisions are often made on both the upper and lower eyelids to open up the eye area. However, stitches may only be required on the upper eyelids. Any necessary sutures to close the wound will need to be in place for at least seven days before they can be removed or dissolve independently. If your stitches need to be removed, that will take place at your scheduled follow-up visit.

Side Effects of Blepharoplasty Surgery

The surgery’s temporary side effects can include sensitivity to light, blurred vision, numbness, puffy eyelids, and double vision. You may also experience slight pain or discomfort and have swelling or bruising that resembles a black eye.

You’ll have to have someone drive you home once you’re released since some patients experience nausea or grogginess from the anesthesia. Ideally, it would be best if you had someone stay with you during the first night of recovery, too.

Most patients who undergo this procedure return to their normal activities within a couple of weeks, as little as 10 days after surgery. The initial concerns that dictate how long you’ll spend before you resume normal activities are bruising, swelling, and maturation of the incision, which varies from person to person.

Know that while you’ll be able to function within a few days, it may take up to a year for your scar to fade to its maximum improvement. Following these steps will help you ensure that your skin heals properly as you recover.

One week after surgery, you shouldn’t experience much pain or discomfort. Your sight should start to clear up. Within ten days, you can begin normal activities like exercise.

Two to three weeks after surgery, there may still be minimal bruising and swelling. Most are cleared to begin wearing eye makeup and contact lenses by this time. Within 4-6 weeks, most of the bruising and swelling should be gone, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the benefits of your blepharoplasty.

Tips for Rapid Recovery

Knowing what to expect can help you prepare for a quick recovery. The most common risks associated with blepharoplasty surgery are bleeding, scarring, infection, irritation, revision, and dry eyes.

Contact a Qualified Surgeon For More Information

Blepharoplasty is a common procedure because it can provide so many benefits from such a simple and straightforward process. With the right knowledge, you can prepare for your surgery so that you are well on your way to a speedy recovery.

The first few days after your surgery are pivotal in your recovery. Secure the proper support at home and work as you need to rest your eyes and the rest of your body for several days after surgery.

Sixteen years of experience in cosmetic surgery allowed Dr. Sidle to develop a humanistic approach to blepharoplasty that results in a dramatically improved, but natural appearance. If you are considering blepharoplasty surgery, contact a qualified facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Sidle for more information and a professional consultation. Dr. Sidle is Chicago’s leading facial cosmetic surgeon and board certified by two independent surgery boards (ABFPRS and ABOHNS). His services range from minimally invasive office procedures to major operations leading to dramatic results and improvements in appearance.

how much does eyelid surgery cost

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is so popular for those over 55, that the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) covered this surgical procedure on their blog a few years ago. There are typically more than 115,000 of these procedures performed in the U.S. each year, making it one of the top five cosmetic procedures for both women and men.

What is eyelid surgery? Why would you need it? Is it just a cosmetic procedure? We have answers to these and other questions about this very common surgery to help you look and see your best.

What Is Eyelid Surgery?

An eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a procedure performed on the upper and or lower eyelids to remove signs of aging.

Blepharoplasty is done primarily for two reasons:

As you age, the elasticity of your tissues starts to decline, wrinkles and loose skin develop, and the fat pads can start to bulge forward around your eyes. Gravity also gradually starts to affect the eyelids causing sagging and hooding over your eyes. These changes can make you look tired and aged, but a blepharoplasty can reverse these changes by removing the excess skin and bulging fat from the lids.

Meet Your Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery Specialist

Eyelid surgery gives a refreshed, more youthful appearance. Trust your look to the eye experts at Ocala Eye. Book your appointment today.

Is Eyelid Surgery Safe?

Eyelid surgery is actually one of the safest of all cosmetic procedures. Blepharoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure for which you don’t need general anesthesia, just a local anesthetic and oral or IV sedation to keep you comfortable.

On the day of surgery, your surgeon will examine and mark your lids before the procedure. Once in the operating room, you will receive medication to keep you calm and comfortable, then the local anesthetic will be injected into the eyelids. When your eyelids are fully numbed, the excess skin (and fat if necessary) will be removed. To help avoid the appearance of scarring, the surgeon will cut along the naturally existing creases of your eyelids. The upper eyelid incisions are carefully closed with sutures, which will stay in place for about a week. The lower eyelid incisions may or may not need sutures depending on where the incisions are made.

Complications are rare from an eyelid surgery but, like for any surgery, it’s important to understand the possible risks, including bleeding, scarring, infection and dry eye. Following your surgeon’s instructions after surgery should help prevent any complications from occurring.

Who Is a Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?

If your upper eyelids are heavy, you may look tired and worn out even when you’re not. Having a blepharoplasty can improve your looks, help you see better, and even give you more confidence. If the appearance of your eyes bothers you and makes you look tired all the time, or makes it difficult to see your lashes or apply makeup, you may be a great candidate for this eyelid surgery.

Most blepharoplasty patients tend to be in their 40s or older. However, we see blepharoplasty candidates as young as 25, particularly if droopy eyelids run in their families. Some patients come in thinking they need a full facelift, but you would be surprised at how much younger you can look with just an “eyelid lift.” After all, most people look at your eyes when they’re talking to you.

Candidates should be in good and stable health. In some cases, you may need to have labs, testing, or changes to medication prior to surgery. Make sure to disclose your medical and surgical history, medications, vitamins, and supplements to your surgeon.

If the heaviness from the upper eyelids is significant, it can impair your peripheral vision. Some upper eyelid blepharoplasty procedures may qualify for insurance coverage for functional improvement. A blepharoplasty can help you see more peripherally, which can affect your daily activities as well as improve your safety. Optimizing your peripheral vision can, for example, help you see oncoming traffic from the sides, or prevent you from bumping your head on cabinets. Your surgeon will need documentation of how much of your vision is obstructed by the eyelids. For this, you will take a visual field test to determine how much the excess skin hinders your peripheral vision. The test will be repeated for each eye with the eyelid taped up, so the improvement in peripheral vision can be documented. Additionally, your clinical team will take before and after photos of your eyes.

What’s It Like to Recover from Eyelid Surgery?

You will go home the same day of your procedure. The surgery itself can last from 30 minutes up to 2 hours, depending on whether you’re having upper or lower eyelid surgery. Before you leave the surgery center, antibiotic ointment will be applied to your eyelids and this may make your eyesight a little blurry. Your eyes may also be sensitive to light and feel watery. Of course, you should have someone drive you home after your procedure.

At home, you should rest and immediately start applying cool compresses or ice packs over your eyes to reduce swelling. You should also sleep with your head elevated to help reduce swelling. While the amount of swelling and bruising varies significantly per person, you may be surprised by how little swelling and bruising you experience from an upper eyelid blepharoplasty alone. Most of the swelling and bruising resolves over the first couple of weeks. Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is more complex and involves tissues deeper in your eye socket, so the swelling may be more significant and last longer. You will need to continue using ointment and or eyedrops during recovery.

Activities will be limited the first 2 weeks after surgery. In order to avoid bleeding, infections, breaking stitches, or opening wounds, you should avoid dirty, sweaty, strenuous activities. Also, to help minimize potential scarring or pigmentation of the incisions, avoid sun exposure to the area. Be sure to wear a hat and sunglasses if you venture outside even for a minute. You can resume most of your activities after 2 weeks, but no swimming, saunas, or spas for 4 weeks.

It’s extremely rare to have complications after this surgery, but it can happen. Rest assured that your Ocala Eye team led by our oculoplastics specialist, Dr. Sarah Kim, is standing by to facilitate a quick and comfortable recovery.

How Long Does Eyelid Surgery Last?

The typical upper lid blepharoplasty lasts up to five years or longer. Surgery on the lower eyelids rarely needs repeating. However, aging continues and you may need other eyelid or brow lifting procedures if heaviness or laxity recurs.

What Does Eyelid Surgery Cost?

The typical blepharoplasty costs around $2,000 to $5,000, depending on how many eyelids you treat. If your eyelid surgery qualifies as a functional procedure, private insurance or Medicare may cover a portion or all of the costs. Your insurance typically will not cover eyelid surgery if it is considered purely cosmetic.

The Oculoplastics team at Ocala Eye has performed countless blepharoplasties to improve the lives of our patients. If you’re interested in talking with our team about this procedure, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Is eyelid surgery permanent

1. What is cosmetic upper eyelid blepharoplasty and what do you mean by “customized” blepharoplasty? Blepharoplasty is one of the most commonly performed facial procedure worldwide and the most common procedure Dr. Abboud performs. Cosmetic upper eyelid blepharoplasty involves the surgical removal of redundant eyelid skin and, if necessary, the removal and/or contouring of the fat around the eyes. It aims to rejuvenate the area surrounding the eyes and to render an overall more youthful and rested appearance to the face.

Since no two sets of eyes are the same, no two blepharoplasty surgeries should be the same either. A customized blepharoplasty tailored to each patient’s aesthetic desires and unique features is necessary to achieve the best cosmetic results. It requires that the surgeon have a keen artistic understanding of what a beautiful eye looks like, a consideration for ethnic and gender differences, expert knowledge of eyelid architecture and function, and the advanced surgical skills to remove, reposition, and/or tighten the eyelid fat, skin, and musculature. An expert eyelid surgeon (i.e., one with extensive training in oculoplastic surgery), must additionally have the foresight to recognize when to preserve and/or reposition fat, when and where to refashion an eyelid crease, and when to combine a blepharoplasty with other procedures, such as a brow lift, lower eyelid blepharoplasty, canthoplasty (tightening of the outer corner of the eyelids), and eyelid ptosis repair (eyelid lift) to achieve the desired post-operative result.

2. What results should I expect and when will I see them? While results do vary, you should expect to see brighter, tighter, and more open eyes after cosmetic upper eyelid blepharoplasty. The results can be subtle but impactful. You should look natural, yet more alert and rested, more youthful, and more vibrant.

You should notice a difference in your eyelids immediately following your surgery. However, post-surgical swelling and discoloration may initially obscure your final outcome. While many patients return to work 1 to 2 weeks after blepharoplasty, it may take several weeks for your swelling to subside completely. You should be able to see your final results from cosmetic eyelid surgery in about 4 to 6 weeks following your surgery.

3. What does cosmetic upper eyelid surgery entail and what type of anesthesia is used? Upper eyelid blepharoplasty, depending on its complexity, can be performed in the operating room or in the office. Surgery is typically performed with minimal sedation or with local injections of anesthetics.

Before the procedure, Dr. Abboud will mark the eyelid crease and carefully measure and outline the amount of skin to be removed. After injecting local anesthetics, he will then use a fine scalpel and electrocautery to precisely remove the redundant skin. He will remove just enough skin to give you the natural-appearing and youthful look you desire but not too much to an extent that eyelid closure (and thus the eye) is compromised. Based on your pre-operative consultation, he will then proceed with any other necessary steps to customize the procedure. After ensuring symmetry between both eyes, he will then close the skin with sutures.

4. Will I get different results if surgery is performed with a laser instead of a scalpel? Results of your blepharoplasty will not depend on what cutting instrument is used, but rather on how skilled your surgeon is using it. Assuming the skill level of the surgeon is the same, your results will be the same. Which instrument is used typically depends on the surgeon’s preference. Dr. Abboud prefers to use a fine scalpel and electrocautery to achieve the intended results.

5. Are there any risks to cosmetic eyelid surgery? Cosmetic eyelid surgery, like any surgery, has risks. Minor side effects associated with blepharoplasty include temporary blurry or double vision, temporary swelling or bruising, and tiny bumps along the incision. These, however, are part of the normal healing process after surgery and are often temporary as they typically resolve on their own. More serious risks include asymmetry, dry eyes, or difficulty closing the eyes. However, the more qualified and experienced your doctor is in eyelid surgery, the lower that risk. Permanent blindness and double vision are exceedingly uncommon and rarely do they happen in experienced hands. During your consultation, Dr. Abboud will thoroughly go over the risks of the surgery, particularly those pertaining to your procedure.

​6. Will I be able to see after surgery? Following your blepharoplasty, your vision may be temporarily blurry due to minor corneal swelling and the use of eye lubricants that we provide. However, your vision will recover fully in a few days. There will be no patches that will completely cover your eyes following surgery.

7. What is the recovery like for cosmetic eyelid surgery? The recovery process is usually not extensive. There may be some swelling and bruising, but most people do not experience much pain. Application of ice packs and elevating your head can help reduce swelling and speed up recovery. While light activity and refraining from heavy lifting are recommended for 2 weeks following surgery, most patients may be able to return to work only a few days after surgery.

8. Will there be noticeable scars on my eyelids? As with any surgical procedure, some scarring is to be expected. However, since upper eyelid blepharoplasty only requires small incisions placed within the natural crease of the eyelids, the resultant scars should be barely noticeable after healing. Patients may see some redness around the incisions immediately following surgery, but this typically fades quickly in the weeks and months following surgery. ​9. Are results of cosmetic blepharoplasty permanent? The results of cosmetic blepharoplasty are designed to be long-lasting. Nevertheless, over time, the elasticity of your skin and the quality of your underlying facial muscles will continue to change in response to aging and other environmental factors. Dr. Abboud recommends that patients protect the skin surrounding their eyes with routine moisturizing and sun protection in order to maintain the results of their eyelid surgery as long as possible.

10. Am I a candidate for upper eyelid blepharoplasty and at what age can it be performed? The most common candidates for upper eyelid blepharoplasty are men or women who notice signs of aging in their face that cause their upper eyelids to droop. Some candidates for blepharoplasty are genetically prone to have naturally drooping eyelids that can cause them to look permanently tired or aged. As such, there really is no set age when eyelid surgery is performed. Ideal candidates for cosmetic upper eyelid blepharoplasty are non-smokers who are in good physical and mental health and who have realistic expectations about their results.

is eyelid surgery safe

If you are considering eyelid surgery, you will first meet with a facial plastic surgeon for a consultation. Please come to your initial visit with information about your medical history, including previous surgeries, present and past health problems, and any medications, vitamins or nutritional supplements you are taking or have taken at some time.

Eyelid surgery is not recommended for people with hypothyroidism, Grave’s disease, dry eye syndrome, high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma or retinal detachment.

Your surgeon will evaluate any excess skin or fat around your eyelid area, the position of your eyebrows and the muscles around your eyelids. If you decide to have eyelid surgery and your surgeon thinks that you are a good candidate, he or she will explain the technique that will be used, the type of facility where the treatment will be performed, and the risks and costs involved.

Be sure to ask any questions you may have, and express your concerns and expectations related to the surgery. You will also be provided with specific guidelines on how to prepare for your procedure.

Procedure

Eyelid surgery is performed in an office-based surgical suite, hospital or outpatient surgery center. If you are admitted to the hospital or surgery center, you will usually only stay one or two nights. The surgery itself usually lasts between one and three hours.

To keep you comfortable during your procedure, you will be given local or general anesthesia. Local anesthesia numbs the eyelid and surrounding area, while keeping you sedated but awake during surgery. General anesthesia keeps you asleep throughout the entire procedure. You can discuss which type of anesthesia you would like with your surgeon.

If your upper eyelids are being treated, your surgeon will make incisions along the natural creases of the upper eyelids. These incisions are made with a traditional scalpel or laser. The upper eyelid incisions extend from the upper inner corners of the eyelids to the “crow’s feet” region. Your surgeon will then remove excess skin, muscle and fat as necessary. The incisions are closed with tiny sutures (stitches), which are removed or dissolve in about one week.

If the lower eyelids are being treated, your surgeon will make an incision along the lash line and natural smile creases of the lower lid. Excess fat, muscle and skin are then trimmed away before the incision is closed with fine sutures (stitches).

Eyelid puffiness caused by excess fat may be corrected with a technique called transconjunctival blepharoplasty. During this procedure, an incision is made inside the lower eyelid and excess fat is removed. When sutures are used to close this kind of incision, they are invisible to the eye. They are also self-dissolving and leave no visible scar.

Risks

Although rare, possible complications of eyelid surgery include hematoma (an accumulation of blood under the skin that may require removal), infection and reactions to anesthesia.

You can help minimize certain risks by carefully following the advice and instructions of your plastic surgeon, both before and after surgery. Once the date for surgery has been set, your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery. These include guidelines on drinking, smoking, and taking and avoiding certain medications and vitamins. If you smoke, it is highly recommended that you stop smoking for a period of time before and after surgery. You should also arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery, and care for you afterwards until you are feeling better.

Recovery

After the procedure, you will be taken into a recovery area where you will be closely monitored. In most cases, you will be permitted to go home after a few hours, although some patients stay overnight for one or two days. If you experience any discomfort, your surgeon will prescribe pain medications to keep you comfortable during the first few days of recovery.

In most cases, bandages are not required. However, you will experience some swelling and bruising. Cold packs can be applied to your eyelids, and you should keep your head elevated to control swelling. Bruising and swelling should begin to decrease after the first few days, but may not resolve entirely for up to one month after surgery.

Your eyes may feel tight and sore, especially the first week after surgery. In some cases, they may become dry and irritated, sensitive to light and itchy. You may also experience blurred vision from ointment that you will use to keep eyelids lubricated. During the first week, your stitches will be removed or dissolve.

Resuming Normal Activities

Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions and guidelines for resuming your regular daily routine. Within the first week following surgery, you can use makeup and resume most of your normal, non-strenuous activities.

In most cases, after several weeks, most of your swelling and any vision problems will disappear. You will also be able to resume all normal activities and exercise, and wear contact lenses.

Follow-Up

Your surgeon will schedule frequent follow-up visits in the months after surgery to check on your progress. If you experience any unusual symptoms or have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call your surgeon’s office.

UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.