Just Had Your Eyelid Surgery?
This page contains all of your post-surgery instructions. Conveniently located in Jacksonville, Garcia Facial Plastic Surgery, led by double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Phillip Garcia, offers blepharoplasty for men and women residing in Ponte Vedra Beach, Orange Park, Lakeside and nearby areas in North Florida.
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Scheduled Eyelid Surgery?
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Recovery is perhaps the most important step of the blepharoplasty process. After having your eyelid surgery, you need to take great care in the following weeks and months to be gentle on your body and let it heal as needed. Most of this involves resting and following the post-operative guidelines provided by Dr. Garcia. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the blepharoplasty recovery process.
“I’m thrilled with the results. I love Dr. Garcia! He was very straightforward, answered all of my questions. I felt very comfortable.” – Suzanne
Essential Surgical Documents for You to Review
Please download these essential pre surgical documents and lists of supplies
BLEPHAROPLASTY POST OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
POST OPERATIVE CLEANING
BLEPHAROPLASTY POST OPERATIVE CHECKLIST
What is Recovery from Blepharoplasty Like?
What is Recovery from Blepharoplasty Like?
Patients can expect to take 1-2 weeks off of work and other activities immediately following their eyelid surgery. During this time, you should plan to rest as much as possible. There are no bandages applied to the eyelids besides the sutures used to close your incisions. You will notice some swelling and bruising in the eyes, which will start to improve in the weeks following your surgery.
You will have to observe some restrictions following blepharoplasty. Typically, you will be required to refrain from strenuous activities for at least weeks. This includes exercise and any type of heavy lifting. Although you will be able to visibly appreciate the results of the procedure after a couple of weeks, it can take a few months before the final results become fully visible.
How Soon After My Blepharoplasty Will My Before and After Photo Be Taken?
We will take your blepharoplasty before and after pictures three months after the eyelid surgery. The blepharoplasty “after” photo is an important part of the three month follow-up visit to Garcia Facial Plastic Surgery. At that time, the eyelid surgery before and after photographs will be analyzed by Dr. Garcia and the patient.
A Post-Surgery Message from Dr. Garcia
Dr. Garcia reminds patients that the recovery process is the most important phase in the blepharoplasty journey. At this point, the final eyelid surgery results are entirely dependent on the patient. We’re here to help you through the recovery process in any way we can, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions along the way.
Educational Videos
Frequently Asked Eyelid Surgery Questions
How long does it take to recover from a blepharoplasty?
The blepharoplasty recovery process is complex, as it requires an initial period of downtime, followed by some restrictions and mild symptoms, after which point patients can finally resume their normal lifestyles. Even at this point, however, it can take a few months for residual swelling to completely fade and reveal the full results of treatment. However, here is a general idea of what a patient can expect on a daily basis during the first few weeks of recovery:
- Week 1:
- In the first few days of recovery, patients should rest as much as possible with very limited activity. You will be given pain medication and antibiotics to help manage any pain and prevent infection. You will experience some pain, swelling, and bruising around your eyes, which can spread to nearby areas like the cheeks. You will be advised to keep your head elevated while sleeping to help reduce swelling. Light walking can help reduce swelling and facilitate the healing process.
- Week 2:
- Swelling and bruising will begin to subside, and you will start to feel comfortable enough to get back to your usual activities. Many patients return to work and other light activities by the end of week 2. However, you will need to avoid strenuous activities like exercise for at least 3 weeks.
- Weeks 3-4:
- Most of the swelling and bruising should be gone by this point. You will begin to see the results of your eyelid surgery, but they will not be fully apparent until the final healing is complete. You will be able to ease back into exercise and similar activities as advised by Dr. Garcia
- Months 2-3
- At this stage, most visible side effects should have healed and patients should be back to their normal routines without any restrictions. You will also have a 3-month follow-up visit with Dr. Garcia to assess your results and take before and after photos. The full results of your eyelid surgery should be visible within three months of surgery.
- Week 1:
Is there pain after blepharoplasty?
While the blepharoplasty procedure is not painful at all, patients should expect some pain during the blepharoplasty recovery. It is during this period where the body is healing and feels the trauma of the surgical process. Fortunately, this pain should only last a few days, and can be managed with pain medications and other post-operative techniques.
How long do you have to sleep sitting up after eyelid surgery?
After blepharoplasty, you will need to sleep with your head elevated and avoid sleeping on your side or stomach for the first few weeks of recovery. This is to help reduce swelling and promote healing. Most patients can resume sleeping on their side or stomach approximately 3-4 weeks after surgery, although this time frame can vary depending on how each individual progresses through the recovery process.
How long does blepharoplasty last?
The results of eyelid surgery typically last for several years. However, the longevity of the results can vary depending on factors such as the individual’s age, skin type, and overall health. As the aging process continues, the effects of blepharoplasty will gradually diminish and the eyes will continue to age.
