
Are you considering eyelid surgery? If yes, then it’s recommended that you know the period of recovery post surgery and the appropriate way to look after yourself during this phase.
Also known as blepharoplasty, eyelid surgery is usually recommended for rectifying eye problems. However, it is not uncommon for some people to go through blepharoplasty in order to make their eyelids more attractive. During corrective surgery, excess skin, fat, or tissue may be removed, and eyelid muscles and tendons may require reinforcement in order to function properly.
Surgery for Treating Eye Defects
This surgery has helped many from succumbing to deadly eye diseases such as cancer. This procedure helps in the removal of cancerous lumps and tumors. Secondly, this procedure also helps rectify drooping eyelids which obstruct the vision of the patient. It also helps rectify eyelid defects such as twitching and excessive mucous and tear discharge, both of which occur because of the weakening or damage of eyelid muscles or nerves. Blepharoplasty also helps in the reconstruction of damaged eyelid among children with birth defects or people with injuries and burns.
Surgery for Looking Younger
The surgery was initially developed in order to remove cancerous lumps and other unwanted growths and infections from under the eyelids. However, many opt for this procedure in order to reduce pockets/bags of fat that get accumulated in the upper and lower eyelid. Adults of all age group go in for this type of cosmetic surgery, so as to make themselves look younger and more attractive. This surgery is often done along with other cosmetic procedures such as brow lifts, face lifts, and wrinkle treatments. An eyelid usually takes about 2-4 weeks to heal after surgery, during which time, the patient needs to give plenty of rest to their eyes.
Aftercare Measures
The incision heals rapidly because the surgery is done using laser technique, which ensures that the incision’s diameter is precise. Following are some measures you can take to make a quick recovery.
- During the first few days, the eyelid will be sore and swollen, because the incision will still be fresh. Applying the prescribed ointment and eye drops as per directions should help alleviate the inflammation and prevent infection and puss.
- Eye drops also prevent the eyes from becoming excessively dry and ensure timely healing.
- Applying ice pads on the eye will numb the pain and reduce swelling.
- You doctor may ask you to sleep with a few pillows under your head as this provides greater relief.
- Keep dust and direct sunlight away by using black tinted glasses.
- Do not wear contact lenses during this period.
- It is better to not stress the eyes by reading, working on the computer, or watching TV during the first 5 days after surgery.
- Doctors also advice not to exercise or exert the body too much because any rise in blood pressure may cause the stitches to burst open.
- Following the doctor’s advice on proper eyelid surgery aftercare can help avoid complications such as tearing of the stitches or onset of infection.
Post Surgery Side Effects
Some people experience adverse side effects such as severe pain after the numbing effects of local anesthesia have worn off, bleeding eyelids, and pus formation. While some experience severe itching, burning, and profuse eye watering.
Scars and bruises may also appear after this surgery but these fade within some months and can be covered with makeup until then.