We all want a speedy recovery from our plastic surgery procedures. Eyelid surgery recovery often intimidates our patients because it deals with such a sensitive area of our bodies. While post-operative care instructions always help you with the basic recovery principals, Dr. Vu feels it’s important to share his favorite blepharoplasty recovery tips to make your blepharoplasty recovery a breeze.
What is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a surgical cosmetic procedure in which excess skin and fatty deposits are removed from the upper and lower eyelid area. Patients often opt to undergo blepharoplasty to improve the appearance of sagging, drooping upper eyelids and puffy, tired-looking under-eyes. Blepharoplasty helps our patients look less tired, bored and uninterested and provides them with a more youthful-looking, alert appearance.
What Can I Expect From Blepharoplasty?
During your surgery, Dr. Vu will make incisions either in the natural fold in the upper eyelid or at the lower lash line. Through this incision, Dr. Vu will be able to remove any pads of excess fat and trim away extra skin and tissue from the area. Following your blepharoplasty, you may experience mild swelling and bruising, which typically subsides within a few weeks. Most patients can return to work in just seven to 10 days following their procedure.
How Can I Speed Up Blepharoplasty Recovery?
Are you impatient to get better and see your results? You’re not alone. Here are five tips Dr. Vu recommends to help you have a quick and easy blepharoplasty recovery.
Ice Regularly
Following your blepharoplasty, icing your eyes is critical to reducing your swelling and bruising. It’s important you always use some sort of a barrier, like a cloth, between your ice and treated area. While icing often is important, make sure to stick to guidelines set by your doctor’s post-operative care instructions. Over-icing your incisions may cause permanent skin damage.
Have Pain Medication on Deck
Make sure you have your pain medication close-by following your procedure. Having your medication within arm’s reach can help you keep on a regular schedule and reduce any discomfort you may feel after your blepharoplasty.
Eye Drops are Essential
Having surgery performed on such a sensitive area can cause some discomfort, including dry eyes. Having eye drops to rehydrate your eyes regularly can keep you from extra irritation. Ask Dr. Vu which drops he recommends before your blepharoplasty, and stock up so you have them available as soon as you need them.
Protection is Key
Protecting your eyes and skin from the sun plays a major role in your blepharoplasty recovery. Consider buying new UV ray-blocking sunglasses and investing in a medical-grade SPF cream to keep your skin protected at all times.
Are you interested in learning more about how you can benefit from eyelid surgery? Call us today to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Vu.
