An eye lift is an outpatient cosmetic surgery that generally takes no more than a couple of hours, according to MayoClinic.com. Eye lifts are performed to correct saggy lids associated with aging, hereditary conditions and certain medical conditions. An important consideration after eyelid lift surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is knowing what to expect after your procedure to ensure a safe, comfortable recovery.
Immediately After Surgery
After your surgeon removes fat and excess skin and closes the incision on your lids, you'll spend some time in a recovery room, according to MayoClinic.com, where you'll be monitored until it's safe for you to go home. Typical post-surgical procedures may include applying ointment to your eyelids, cold compresses or gauze, says the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Side Effects
Right after eyelid lift surgery, your eyes may tear up a lot, according to MayoClinic.com. Blurred or double vision or sensitivity to light may also be present. When you look in the mirror, you probably won't look like a million bucks; your eyes will be swollen, puffy and bruised, says the clinic. These symptoms may linger for a week or even longer. Using cold compresses can help curb swelling. The ASPS advises asking your surgeon what you can expect during your recovery period.
Pain Control
According to MayoClinic.com, the pain associated with an eye lift is generally not too severe. Your doctor may recommend a pain reliever to make you more comfortable, but the clinic cautions against use of medications that can cause bleeding, such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
Post-Surgical Cautions
Your doctor may recommend that you take certain precautions after your surgery. These may include avoiding swimming and intense physical activities, such as running and aerobic exercise, states MayoClinic.com. Also, don't lift more than 20 pounds. You may also be advised to sleep with your head higher than the rest of your body. The clinic advises following your doctor's recovery instructions, specifically with respect to keeping the surgical site clean and using eye drops, if these are recommended. Until your eyelids are completely healed, the ASPS notes that you must wear darkly tinted sunglasses with UV protection whenever you go outdoors.
Long-Term Effects
Follow-up with your doctor is necessary after an eye lift. After three or four days, your doctor will remove your stitches, according to the MayoClinic.com. The scars at the incision site may remain slightly pink for six months after your eye lift, says the National Institutes of Health. This scar should eventually fade and turn into a barely visible, thin white line. Eyelid lift surgery can give you dramatic results and a more youthful appearance. Some people may eventually experience subsequent eye droop after a blepharoplasty, while for others, results last a lifetime.
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