What to expect afterwards
Pain medication may be needed to help with any discomfort as the anesthetic wears off.
Following a local anesthetic, people usually feel ready to go home after a short rest in a chair or on a bed.
If the procedure is performed under a general anaesthetic, a longer rest will be needed. A drip may be put in the arm to prevent dehydration until the person starts drinking enough fluid.
Once home, further painkillers may be taken if needed. Applying a cold compress, such as a custom cold pack or a bag of frozen peas, can help to reduce the swelling and bruising. Here are some important things to remember while recovering from a blepharoplasty:
- Avoid bending over for a few days – both will help reduce swelling use any ointment provided as instructed.
- Avoid applying eye make-up until a couple of days after the stitches have been removed, or as advised by Dr. Haight.
- Avoid wearing contact lenses for one week (they may still feel uncomfortable for a while after that).
- Avoid driving until vision has returned to normal and the bandages have been removed.
Deciding to have the operation
Blepharoplasty is a commonly performed and generally safe operation. For most people, the benefits in terms of relief of their symptoms or improved appearance are much greater than any disadvantages. However, in order to give informed consent, anyone deciding whether to have this procedure needs to be aware of the possible side-effects and the risk of complications.