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what-to-expect-with-eyelid-surgery

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title: "What to Expect with Eyelid Surgery" slug: "what-to-expect-with-eyelid-surgery" description: "Thinking about eyelid surgery? What the procedure involves, how long recovery takes, and what aftercare actually looks like." date: "2022-11-15" category: "Treatments" tags: ["eyelid-surgery", "blepharoplasty", "recovery"] relatedSlugs: ["how-to-qualify-for-eyelid-surgery", "considering-plastic-surgery", "how-long-does-a-facelift-last"] status: "review" ahpraCompliant: false

What to Expect with Eyelid Surgery

Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery, is a procedure that addresses excess skin, fat, or muscle around the eyelids. It is performed for both cosmetic and functional reasons and is one of the more commonly requested facial procedures in Australia.

What Is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty involves the removal or repositioning of excess tissue from the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. The procedure can address:

  • Drooping or hooded upper eyelids
  • Puffiness or bags beneath the eyes
  • Excess skin that may be affecting vision (in the case of upper eyelid surgery)
  • A tired or aged appearance around the eyes

The procedure is typically performed by a plastic surgeon or an oculoplastic surgeon (a specialist who focuses specifically on the eyelid and surrounding area).

The Procedure

Before Surgery

Your surgeon will conduct a thorough assessment, which may include:

  • A detailed examination of the eyelid skin, muscle, and fat
  • Photographs for surgical planning and medical records
  • Visual field testing (particularly if a Medicare rebate is being sought)
  • Discussion of your medical history and any medications you take
  • A clear explanation of what the surgery can and cannot achieve

During Surgery

Blepharoplasty is typically performed as a day procedure, meaning you go home the same day.

Upper blepharoplasty:

  • An incision is made in the natural crease of the upper eyelid
  • Excess skin, and sometimes a small amount of muscle or fat, is removed
  • The incision is closed with fine sutures
  • Procedure time is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour

Lower blepharoplasty:

  • An incision may be made just below the lower lash line (external approach) or inside the eyelid (transconjunctival approach)
  • Excess fat is removed or repositioned
  • Excess skin may be trimmed if needed
  • Procedure time is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours

Combined upper and lower blepharoplasty:

  • Both upper and lower eyelids are addressed in the same session
  • Total procedure time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours

The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia with sedation, though general anaesthesia may be used in some cases.

Recovery Timeline

Days 1 to 3

  • Swelling and bruising around the eyes are most prominent
  • Cold compresses are applied gently to reduce swelling
  • Antibiotic ointment is applied to the incision sites as directed
  • Your eyes may feel dry, watery, or sensitive to light
  • Pain is typically mild and managed with prescribed medication
  • Rest with your head elevated

Days 4 to 7

  • Swelling and bruising begin to improve noticeably
  • Sutures are typically removed between days 5 and 7
  • You may start to see early results as the swelling subsides
  • Avoid wearing eye makeup during this phase

Weeks 2 to 3

  • Most bruising has resolved and can be concealed with makeup if needed
  • Swelling continues to decrease
  • Many people feel comfortable returning to work and social activities
  • Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting

Weeks 4 to 6

  • The majority of swelling has subsided
  • Incision lines are healing and beginning to fade
  • You can generally resume normal activities, including exercise

3 to 6 Months

  • Scars continue to mature and become less noticeable
  • Final results are fully visible
  • The incision in the upper eyelid crease typically becomes very discreet once fully healed

Aftercare Tips

Following your surgeon's aftercare instructions is essential for a smooth recovery:

  • Protect your eyes from the sun — Wear sunglasses when outdoors and apply SPF to the surrounding skin once it has healed
  • Use prescribed eye drops — To keep the eyes lubricated if dryness occurs
  • Avoid rubbing your eyes — This can disrupt the healing process
  • Sleep with your head elevated — For at least the first week to help reduce swelling
  • Avoid contact lenses — For approximately 2 weeks after surgery, or as advised by your surgeon
  • Skip eye makeup — For at least 7 to 10 days after surgery
  • Attend all follow-up appointments — Your surgeon will monitor your healing and address any concerns

Potential Risks

As with any surgical procedure, blepharoplasty carries potential risks, including:

  • Dry eyes or excessive tearing
  • Temporary blurred vision
  • Asymmetry between the two sides
  • Difficulty closing the eyes fully (typically temporary)
  • Scarring
  • Infection (rare)
  • Changes in sensation around the eyelids

Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you during your consultation and explain how they are managed.

Finding a Qualified Surgeon

Eyelid surgery requires precision and a thorough understanding of the delicate anatomy around the eyes. When choosing a surgeon:

  • Look for experience specifically in eyelid procedures
  • Ask about their training and qualifications
  • Review before and after photos of their previous blepharoplasty patients
  • Ensure they take the time to understand your goals and answer your questions

Pirk can help connect you with qualified surgeons across Australia who perform blepharoplasty procedures.

Disclaimer: Pirk is not a medical provider. We are here to support your decisions and help connect you with qualified, registered health practitioners. All procedures are performed by qualified surgeons or registered health practitioners, and any medical advice should always come directly from your treating provider. We guide you through the journey, but all medical decisions are made between you and your surgeon.