Upper eyelid surgery recovery is often quicker and more manageable than many patients expect, but understanding what happens week by week can help you plan your downtime. Because the skin around the eyes is delicate, it’s normal to have questions about swelling, bruising, and when you can safely return to work, exercise, and daily activities.
In this post, we outline a general eyelid surgery recovery timeline so you know what to expect during each stage of healing and how long recovery typically takes.
How Long Is Eyelid Surgery Recovery?
Most patients recover from eyelid surgery within 1 to 2 weeks, when swelling and bruising significantly improve and normal daily activities can be resumed. Full healing continues over the following weeks as residual swelling resolves and incision lines fade.
- Upper eyelid surgery: Initial recovery is often quicker, with many patients feeling comfortable returning to routine activities within about a week.
- Lower eyelid surgery: Swelling may take longer to fully resolve, with recovery progressing more gradually over several weeks.
Upper Eyelid Surgery Recovery Timeline
While each person’s recovery varies, here’s a general timeline of what to expect:
Week 1
You will experience bruising, swelling, and discomfort the first few days after your procedure. Surprisingly, eyelid surgery is considered one of the least painful plastic surgeries.
- Swelling and bruising usually peak on day 3 or 4.
- Most upper eyelid surgery patients report a postsurgical rating of 4 on a 1-to-10 pain scale.
- Most patients use over-the-counter medication, but your plastic surgeon will advise you on what pain relievers you can take.
- Ice packs also help decrease discomfort and swelling during this first week.
- Refrain from any strenuous activities or lifting during the first 2 weeks.
You can return to work after a few days if you feel ready, but it’s better to take 5 to 7 days to let your body heal.
Weeks 2 & 3
At 2 weeks after upper eyelid surgery, you should start to see the results of your blepharoplasty, with your eyes looking more open and refreshed.
- Swelling and bruising around your eyes will have decreased significantly.
- Makeup can be applied to cover any residual bruising or hyperpigmentation from the incision.
- Most patients can return to light to moderate exercise.
Week 4
You should be enjoying most of your eyelid surgery results and showing off your new youthful look.
- You can resume cleansing your face and using your usual skincare products.
- Most patients can return to their full exercise routines and weightlifting.
Will I Have Scarring After Eyelid Surgery?
Yes, some scarring after eyelid surgery is expected, but it is typically minimal and fades well over time. Additionally, your plastic surgeon will strategically place the incisions so your scars are barely visible. You can see how concealed the scars are by looking at our patients’ before-and-after pictures.
A board-certified and experienced facial plastic surgeon can help you achieve optimal results with minimal scarring.
Tips for a Smooth Eyelid Surgery Recovery
You can take several steps to promote your smooth and speedy recovery.
- Follow your plastic surgeon’s recommendations.
- Do not rub or tug at your eyelids until they are fully healed.
- Refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol; they can slow the healing process.
- Skip strenuous workouts and heavy lifting.
- Protect your eyes from the sun until your incisions are fully healed.
- An American Academy of Ophthalmology reminder: Disclose all prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements to your plastic surgeon before surgery.
Recovering from eyelid surgery is usually not as daunting as it seems, and your board-certified facial Recovering from eyelid surgery is not as intimidating as it may seem, and your board-certified facial plastic surgeon will guide you through the process. If you are ready to rejuvenate your eyes/appearance with eyelid surgery, request a consultation or call us at (980) 949-6544 to schedule an appointment.
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