Eyelid lift surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that is intended to improve the appearance of the eyelids, and with best results, leaves the patient looking more rested or alert. The healing process is a gradual one, taking several weeks to achieve full results, while incisions will fade over several months.
Preparation
For best results, smokers should stop smoking in advance of surgery and stop taking any medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin, which can cause increased bleeding risks with surgery. While blepharoplasty, or eye lifts, are often done on an outpatient basis, the patient should arrange for a ride home as well as someone to help watch over them the following day.
Surgery
The eye lift surgery is done either with a local or a general anesthesia. An IV is administered and vital signs are monitored closely. The surgery is performed in a hospital, an office-surgical suite or a freestanding clinic.
Post-surgery
Immediately following surgery, the patient is taken to a recovery area where monitoring continues. Vision is blurred from both the post-surgery swelling and the ointment used, but little discomfort is normally felt at this time.
Time Frame
The first few days the patient should rest with the head elevated, and use cold compresses for mild discomfort and tightness, as well as take oral medication given by physician. Swelling and bruising are most noticeable the first 48 hours.
Later recovery
Within a week, the sutures are removed, and eye make-up and contacts may be used/ Bruising should be gone and normal activities resumed including bending, straining and lifting. Dark sunglasses may be worn for a couple weeks, and vision may be blurry, eyes may be dry or teary, or sensitive to light . Eye drops may be prescribed.
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