Prepare for These Temporary Effects After Eyelid Surgery

Every year, more than 325,000 Americans undergo blepharoplasty, in which excess skin and fat are removed from eyelids so they don’t droop. This popular surgery can not only provide an aesthetic improvement, but, in some cases, it can also improve vision.

Frederick H. Watkins, MD, has years of experience sculpting and lifting the delicate tissues around the eyes. If you’ve been bothered by sagging eyelids that make you look perpetually sleepy or disinterested, Dr. Watkins offers blepharoplasty as a safe and effective solution.

If you decide blepharoplasty is right for you, Dr. Watkins, who is known for his uncommon personal demeanor, guides you through the experience every step of the way. This includes giving you detailed information about what to expect once your surgery is over. In this blog, he explains how to prepare for recovery.

Steps to take before eyelid surgery

Every surgery comes with at least a few side effects, such as discomfort and swelling, but you can do yourself a favor and reduce the severity of these effects by taking a few precautionary steps ahead of your procedure.

Before blepharoplasty, Dr. Watkins encourages patients to protect their eyes from too much sun exposure for a couple weeks. 

If you smoke, it would be best to quit altogether, but you should at least cease for about two weeks before your surgery. Smoking affects your blood vessels, which makes it harder for them to deliver oxygen and nutrients to all the parts of your body, including your eyelids. Furthermore, smoking can increase your risk of developing an infection, and it can also slow down healing.

Another thing you can do to make recovery easier is to think about how you use your eyes every day and anticipate adjustments you’ll need to make in the days following your surgery. For example, if you read a lot, you may want to download some audio books to give your eyes a break.

Effects to expect after eyelid surgery

As the anesthesia wears off, you may feel a bit groggy, but you shouldn’t feel pain. Furthermore, your lids may be a bit numb, and they may feel slightly heavy. And, for the next few days, you can expect a few temporary side effects from the surgery, including:

• Swollen lids
• Watery eyes
• Blurred or double vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Discoloration or bruising
• Numbness
• Tightness
• Discomfort or pain
• Burning or itching
• Dry eyes

Most of our patients tolerate these minor effects well, especially if they follow our detailed aftercare instructions. However, if your symptoms seem severe, call us right away. Signs you should come back to see us include:

• Severe pain
• A fever, which is a temperature above 100.4°F
• Swelling that gets worse rather than better
• Redness around your incision
• Discharge from the incision, especially if it has a green or yellow tinge
• Bleeding

These complications are rare, but if you experience anything concerning, never hesitate to call us.

Ways to improve recovery

As your eyes heal, you can give them a helping hand by following a few common-sense lifestyle adjustments.

Take time off

Start by planning to take some time off work if you can, especially if your job entails a lot of physical activity or eye strain. 

Rest right

Prop up your pillows so your head stays slightly elevated as you sleep. This can help keep inflammation at bay.

Take it easy

Don’t lift anything heavy for the first couple of weeks. Bending over and lifting heavy objects causes blood to rush to your face, which can interfere with healing.

Use medication as directed

If Dr. Watkins prescribes a topical ointment, make sure you use it as directed to reduce the risk of developing an infection.

Other tips to improve recovery

• Don’t wear makeup while your incisions heal
• Don’t rub your eyes
• Don’t swim until you’ve fully healed
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays

If you follow these easy aftercare instructions, you can expect excellent results from your blepharoplasty and look forward to a brighter look in the very near future. To schedule your eyelid surgery consultation, book an appointment online or over the phone with the practice of Frederick H. Watkins, MD, today.