After Eyelid Surgery: 5 Tips for a Speedy Recovery​​​​​​​

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that can get rid of drooping eyelids. People develop droopy eyelids from different factors, including weight fluctuations, illness, aging, and genetics. 

Hooded or sagging eyelids can cause an individual to look older than they are. Surgery can help open up the eyes, resulting in a more youthful appearance. If you decide to get eyelid surgery, heed these tips for a speedy recovery. 

Getting Help After Surgery 

Eyelid surgery is an outpatient procedure, so you can go home soon after the surgery. Get someone to drive you home after the surgery. You should also get help around the house, as you need to rest as much as possible after the procedure. 

You will have sutures for about one week, so avoid showers for at least three days. Avoid getting soap or shampoo in your eyes during the healing period. 

• Embrace a Healthy Diet 

Eating unhealthy foods can slow down the body's healing process. You should embrace healthy eating habits before the surgery and continue during recovery. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and junk food. 

Smoking can slow down circulation, prolonging recovery. Consuming nutritious foods will prepare your body for surgery, and it will help you recover faster. It will also help reduce the risk of developing scars. 

• Avoid Physical Exertion

Avoid exercise, workouts, or activities involving too much energy. You should reserve your energy to heal quickly and effectively. Exercise can damage the incisions, causing them to pull apart and damage the healing tissue. 

Rest as much as possible for one week to nine days after surgery, and avoid bending over or lifting heavy objects. Keep your head elevated while sleeping or resting. 

• Protection From Sunlight 

When recovering from the surgery, try to stay out of the sun as much as possible. The skin tissue is sensitive and vulnerable to harmful UV rays immediately after surgery. Stay indoors during recovery and wear sunglasses if you must go out. The skin tissue needs adequate time to heal effectively. Use ice compresses to keep the eye area cool and reduce swelling.

• Keep Your Eyes Clean 

Avoid using regular cleaning products on or near the eyelids as the incisions heal. To keep your eyes clean, use products recommended by the doctor. Ensure you keep the area as dry as possible for several days after the surgery. Do not use eye makeup for the first ten days after surgery. Makeup can contain ingredients that hinder the healing process.

Avoid rubbing your eyes soon after eyelid surgery. If you have allergies, talk to the doctor about medications to help prevent itchy and watery eyes. Wearing eyeglasses will also help protect the eyes from anything that can cause itching. 

Your doctor may give you eye drops and cold compresses to reduce swelling and disinfect the eyes. Make sure you use medications as directed and follow the surgeon's instructions. It can take one week to 10 days to recover from eyelid surgery. Ensure that you keep all your follow-up appointments. 

For more tips for a speedy recovery after eyelid surgery, visit Jason K Potter, MD, DDS, at our office in Dallas, Texas. Call 214-892-2474 to schedule an appointment.