How Long Does Tightness Last After Eyelid Surgery?
Dr. Roberto Garcia | 01/05/2021
As you begin counting down to your upcoming eyelid surgery, it can certainly be exciting to imagine your new and improved look. However, it is also important to think about the time after surgery and start preparing for a successful and comfortable recovery. This includes knowing what possible side effects to expect and how long they may last. Double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Roberto Garcia and the expert team at Contoura Facial Plastic Surgery in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL are committed to providing exceptional patient care and service, including postoperative monitoring and follow-up, to ensure a speedy recovery and stunning result. Learn more about what to expect during blepharoplasty recovery here, including how long you may experience certain side effects, such as tightness around the eyes.
What is blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a highly beneficial procedure designed to improve or correct certain cosmetic and/or functional complaints related to the upper and lower eyelids, including:
- Excess skin on the eyelids
- Droopy eyelids
- Hanging upper eyelids
- Obstructed field of vision due to hanging eyelids
- Bulging fat under the eyes
- Puffiness under the eyes
- Tired or worn-out appearance
How is eyelid surgery performed?
Because everyone has their own unique set of concerns, goals, and anatomic features, blepharoplasty is custom-tailored to meet the needs of each patient. Depending on your case, you may need either upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both. In most cases, blepharoplasty is performed on both eyes to ensure the closest possible symmetry and most aesthetically pleasing result possible. Generally speaking, eyelid surgery involves the following:
- Upper blepharoplasty: During upper eyelid surgery, a tiny incision is placed in the crease of the upper eyelid, and the surgeon trims excess skin to create a refreshed, more youthful appearance.
- Lower blepharoplasty: Lower eyelid surgery requires a precise and delicate incision along the lower lash line, allowing the surgeon to remove bulging fat and excess skin for a smoother, more rested look.
Eyelid surgery in Jacksonville, FL is typically performed while the patient is under general anesthesia and can take up to 1 – 3 hours to complete, depending on the complexity and nature of the case. The majority of patients are able to return home to begin their recovery the same day, though patients undergoing a combination facelift plus eyelid surgery may require an overnight stay.
How long is eyelid surgery recovery time?
Almost immediately after blepharoplasty, patients should expect some level of discomfort, bruising, and swelling. Most men and women are able to resume the majority of their daily routines, including going to work, after about 1 – 2 weeks. Strenuous physical activity may be restricted for longer, however.
After about two weeks, the majority of bruising and swelling will have resolved, though some patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or tightness for a while longer.
During your initial consultation and preoperative appointments, Dr. Garcia will thoroughly discuss eyelid surgery aftercare and help you better understand what to expect during your recovery period.
How long should I have eyelid tightness after blepharoplasty?
In addition to eyelid numbness, temporary tightness around the eyes after blepharoplasty is an expected side effect. This may feel strange or even frightening at first, but rest assured that this is a normal postoperative effect that should subside with time. The majority of patients report tightness after eyelid surgery to last for about two weeks, though numbness or a change in eyelid sensation may last longer. Dr. Contoura will evaluate your healing and recovery process during your follow-up appointments to ensure everything is progressing appropriately. If you have any concerns about prolonged or exaggerated tightness after blepharoplasty, don't hesitate to call your surgeon.
Turn back the clock and freshen up your look with blepharoplasty in Jacksonville, FL
As one of the most prominent and captivating features of the face, the eyes deserve to sparkle and stun. If you are frustrated by hanging eyelids or puffiness under your eyes that make you look older or more tired than you actually are, you may be a fantastic candidate for blepharoplasty. To learn more about the transformative benefits of Jacksonville, FL eyelid surgery, call the knowledgeable team at Contoura Facial Plastic Surgery in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL to schedule your private in-office or virtual consultation with double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Roberto Garcia today. We look forward to helping you achieve the gorgeous look you've always wanted!