TL;DR:
- Blepharoplasty improves the appearance and function of the eyelids by removing excess skin and fat.
- Lasts 1-3 hours; local anesthesia for upper eyelids, intravenous for lower eyelids.
- Recovery: return to work after 7-9 days, full healing may take several months.
- Recommendations after surgery: avoid sports (4 weeks), lenses (1 week), makeup (2 weeks), sun, swimming and saunas.
- A diet rich in vitamins and minerals promotes healing.
- In case of problems: consultation with surgeon, possible surgical adjustments.
Eyelid plastic surgery is a step toward a younger appearance for many of us. But what happens once we've made up our minds? In the article "Eyelid plasty day by day – what's worth knowing?" you'll learn about the entire process – from the procedure itself, to recovery, to recommendations that will help you enjoy the results for as long as possible. Read on to know more and be well prepared for your transformation!
What does upper and lower eyelid plastic surgery look like?
Eyelid plasty, also known as blepharoplasty, is a procedure that improves the appearance and function of the eyelids. It removes excess skin, fat and sometimes muscle. The procedure can affect both the upper and lower eyelids, and is popular for its rejuvenating effects.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure itself usually takes between one and three hours, depending on whether one or both eyelids are operated on. The duration of the procedure also depends on the individual characteristics of the patient and the complexity of the operation. It is important to reserve a full day for the procedure and the first few hours afterwards, because although the surgery is not very time-consuming, it requires follow-up afterwards.
Is the procedure performed under anesthesia?
For upper eyelid plasty, local anesthesia is usually used. The patient is conscious, but feels no pain. Local anesthesia allows for a shorter recovery time and less risk of complications. For lower eyelids or simultaneous surgery on both eyelids, additional intravenous anesthesia is often used to make the patient more comfortable. This makes the procedure less stressful.
You can read more about whether blepharoplasty is for you here.
What does recovery from eyelid plasty include?
Reconvalescence after eyelid plasty is crucial for optimal results. Certain recommendations must be followed after the procedure to minimize the risk of complications and speed up healing.
When can you return to work?
Most often, patients can return to work after 7-9 days if they do sedentary work. For more physically demanding work, this time can extend to 3-4 weeks. It is worth remembering that for the first few days after surgery there may be swelling and bruising, which gradually subsides.
How long does the swelling go down?
Swelling after eyelid plasty usually begins to go down after about 1-2 weeks. During this time, it is recommended to avoid contact with water, use cold compresses and sleep with the head elevated higher to reduce swelling. However, it can take up to several months for the swelling to completely subside, depending on the patient's individual predisposition.
During recovery, it is important to avoid wearing contact lenses, makeup, as well as sun exposure and intense physical activity. Following the doctor's recommendations and taking care of oneself will help achieve the best results and minimize the risk of complications.
What are the recommendations after upper and lower eyelid correction surgery?
After eyelid plastic surgery, proper post-operative care is key to speed up healing and minimize the risk of complications. The care tips are simple, but following them is of paramount importance for the final result.
Can makeup be used after surgery?
Definitely no. For at least two weeks after surgery, avoiding makeup is essential to avoid irritating fresh wounds and scars. Early use of cosmetics can lead to infection and delay the healing process. After this period, if the skin is healing well, one can gradually return to using makeup, starting with hypoallergenic products.
How to take care of eyelid plastic surgery scars?
Eyelid plasty scars are a natural part of the healing process, but proper care can significantly affect their appearance. Regular use of antibacterial ointments and avoidance of sun exposure are recommended. Wearing sunglasses is key to protect delicate skin from harmful UV rays. If there are any doubts about the condition of the scars, it is best to consult a doctor.
Remember that following post-surgery recommendations is the foundation for a quick recovery and the desired results.
What factors affect the healing process after eyelid surgery?
The healing process after eyelid plastic surgery depends on many factors that can affect the speed and quality of recovery. Knowledge of these can help prepare for surgery and optimize the healing process.
What are the most common factors affecting healing?
The most important factors affecting healing after eyelid plasty are the patient's age, health status, and adherence to postoperative instructions. Younger people usually heal faster than older people, although individual differences can be significant. Health status, especially the presence of chronic diseases like diabetes or hypertension, can slow the healing process. It is also crucial to avoid stimulants like alcohol and cigarettes, which can negatively affect tissue regeneration.
How can diet help the healing process?
Diet plays an important role in the healing process after eyelid surgery. Eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, vitamin A and zinc, can significantly speed up recovery. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish and lean meat are foods to include in the daily diet. Avoiding highly processed foods and those rich in sugars can also help speed recovery.
Following diet and lifestyle recommendations after eyelid plastic surgery is key to getting the best possible results. By taking care of these aspects, you support your body in the healing process and increase the chances of a quick and successful return to full function. Read more about eyelid procedure safety.
What should you not do after eyelid plasty?
After eyelid plasty, or blepharoplasty, it is extremely important to follow the doctor's instructions to ensure the best possible results and minimize the risk of complications. Therefore, it is important to know what to avoid after the procedure.
Can you play sports after the procedure?
No, you cannot do sports after eyelid plastic surgery for at least 4 weeks. Physical activities can increase blood pressure, which in turn can lead to bleeding and prolong the recovery period. Even light exercise, such as yoga, can affect healing, so it is advisable to wait until the doctor approves a return to physical activity.
What are some other activities to avoid?
Avoiding certain activities after eyelid plasty is key to proper healing. The following should be avoided:
- Wearing contact lenses: For the first week after surgery to minimize the risk of infection.
- Makeup: For a minimum of 10 days to prevent irritation and infection.
- Swimming in pools or the sea: For 2-3 weeks, avoiding chlorinated or salt water is important to avoid irritation.
- Sauna and hot tubs: High temperatures and humidity can delay healing, so it is best to avoid these areas for the first month after treatment.
- Direct sun exposure: For about 6 weeks, as UV rays can affect scar healing. It is advisable to wear dark sunglasses to protect the eyes.
Following these recommendations is key to ensure a smooth recovery process and the best possible aesthetic results.
How long do eyelids take to heal after correction?
Eyelid healing after plastic surgery is a step-by-step process that requires patience and strict adherence to medical recommendations. Typically, full recovery takes 2 to 4 weeks, although complete tissue healing can take several months. It is crucial to avoid factors that can delay the healing process, such as wearing contact lenses, makeup, swimming or sun exposure.
When do red scars disappear?
Red scars from eyelid plastic surgery begin to disappear gradually, usually within a few weeks to a few months after surgery. It is important to follow the doctor's instructions, which may include using scar creams and avoiding the sun. These scars often fade and become less noticeable over time, especially if the patient takes care of the skin as directed by the specialist.
Can scarring be expected after the stitches are removed?
Yes, scarring can be expected after the sutures are removed, although they are usually small and hidden in the natural folds of the eyelids. The sutures are usually removed 5-7 days after the procedure. It is important not to irritate the operated area and to follow the doctor's care instructions, which can help minimize the visibility of the scars. If the scars are very visible, additional cosmetic treatments are possible to improve their appearance. You can read more about the treatment here.
What to do in case of failed eyelid plasty?
Unsuccessful eyelid surgery can be frustrating and cause a lot of stress. When the result of the procedure does not meet expectations, it is important to take the appropriate steps as soon as possible.
What are the most common complications?
The most common complications after failed eyelid plasty include asymmetry, excessive skin removal, eyelid closure problems and visible scarring. Asymmetry can cause differences in the appearance of the eyelids, which is especially noticeable when smiling. Excessive skin removal leads to difficulty closing the eyes, and visible scarring can be aesthetically unacceptable.
How can a failed procedure be repaired?
Repairing a failed procedure requires consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon, who will assess the situation and suggest appropriate solutions. Possible corrective methods include additional surgeries, such as skin grafts or scar corrections. In some cases, less invasive treatments, such as laser therapy or fat injections, can improve the appearance and function of the eyelids.
It is important not to delay action and to consult a surgeon as soon as possible after noticing problems. The sooner the repair process begins, the better the chance of satisfactory results.
Conclusion
Eyelid surgery can change your appearance for the better. The procedures are quick and may require anesthesia. Recovery from surgery usually takes several weeks. It is important to take care of the scars and avoid certain activities. Healing time depends on various factors, such as diet. If the surgery fails, there are ways to fix it. It is worth investing in your health and beauty.
