Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
Eyelid surgery, which is clinically called blepharoplasty, involves a basic recovery period like most other cosmetic surgery procedures. Patients should be aware about the estimated recovery time and should know what to expect during the recovery period. An experienced facial plastic surgeon will discuss all aspects of eyelid surgery during the initial consultation, including the expected recovery process.
As a board certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Trang Vo-Nguyen (Dr. V) provides eyelid surgery among various other procedures. She receives patients from in Chantilly, Northern Virginia, Loudoun County, Fairfax, Prince William, Fauquier, Arlington, Middleburg, Leesburg, Manassas, Warrenton, and surrounding communities.
Immediate Post-op Condition
The patient may receive eyelid surgery as an outpatient procedure or, in some cases an overnight stay at the hospital may be involved. The surgeon will determine the appropriate environment for immediate recovery according to the circumstances of the case. Cold compresses and lubricating ointment may be applied following the surgery. In some cases, the eyes will be gently covered with bandages.
The surgeon will provide clear instructions regarding how to care for the eyes during the recovery period. Medications may be prescribed to promote early healing, reduce the risk of infection and manage the pain. The patient will also be provided with a date for first follow-up visit to the surgeon’s office. Bruising, swelling, irritation or dry eye conditions may occur during the initial healing period, which can be managed with ointment, medication and cold compresses. Eye drops may be used to prevent dry eyes.
First Few Weeks of Recovery
During the first week of recovery, the patient should avoid activities that strain the eyes, including reading, watching TV, using computer, or wearing contact lens. These activities can result in dry eyes. Bruising and swelling can be minimized by keeping the head in a raised position during the first few days. Sutures may be removed in about five to seven days. After the first week, most patients will be ready to resume their regular activities or return to work.
Dr. V strongly advises her patients in in Chantilly, Northern Virginia, Loudoun County, Fairfax, Prince William, Fauquier, Arlington, Middleburg, Leesburg, Manassas, Warrenton, and other areas to wear dark sunglasses for at least the first two to four weeks. This will protect the eyes against irritation caused by sun and wind. Eyes may get tired easily during the first few weeks, so frequent naps will help.
Activities such as bending, heavy lifting, sports or exercises should be avoided for about three to four weeks following eyelid surgery. This will help avoid the possibility of increased blood flow to the eyes. The surgeon will advise the patient a suitable time frame when vigorous exercises or activities may be resumed.
Length of Recovery Period
Full recovery following blepharoplasty will usually take several weeks. Swelling and redness occurring after the surgery will gradually disappear. Most patients will be able to go back to their workplace in about seven to 10 days. Gradually, the eyes will appear younger and more alert, which will make the patient feel better and more confident.
For more infomation please contact Dr. V. Dr. Trang Thuy Vo-Nguyen, known to her patients as “Dr. V,” is a board certified facial plastic surgeon providing the latest surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures in Northern Virginia, Leesburg, Loudoun, Fairfax, Warrenton, Fauquier, Arlington, Manassas, Middleburg, Prince William, and other areas. https://thevirginiainstitute.com/contact-us/
