Recovery After Eyelid Surgery

You will need to be driven home from your surgery because your vision will be blurry and you may be groggy. The blurriness may last for a couple of days and you may also be sensitive to bright light. Your eyelids will feel swollen, tight, and sore, and possibly bruised-looking. Your surgeon may prescribe a pain reliever for you and an antibiotic.

Your surgeon will give you a list of instructions after your surgery. You may be asked to put cold compresses on your eyes several times a day for the first day or two. You may be told to wear an eye patch or bandage at night so that you don't inadvertently bump your eyes. You may also be given eye drops to put in several times a day.

Your instructions will include information on how to wash your face and care for your incisions. Sleep with your head elevated on two or three pillows to help reduce swelling. Avoid putting on eye makeup until your surgeon gives you permission.

Follow-up visits with your surgeon will be scheduled for a day or two after your surgery. The surgeon will remove stitches and remove or change your bandages at these visits, which should make you feel more comfortable. Most people who have blepharoplasty return to work about a week after surgery.

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