What to Expect After Eyelid Lift Surgery

As plastic surgery has become more accessible and effective, more and more people are investing in their face. As of 2020, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) has become the second most popular procedure behind nose jobs (rhinoplasty), and patients are getting younger and younger. No matter your age, if you’re unhappy with your eyelids, a blepharoplasty can deliver dramatic results with little downtime. 

At Laughlin Plastic Surgery in Annapolis, Maryland, Dr. Daniel Laughlin performs eyelid lifts to give you more confidence, make your entire face look more youthful, and even fix problems with drooping eyelids that are obstructing your vision.   

An overview of blepharoplasty  

Before any surgery can take place, you’ll need to make sure you and your surgeon are on the same page. At Laughlin Plastic Surgery, Dr. Laughlin approaches each patient differently, discussing their unique concerns and expectations for the surgery. 

He and his team can pinpoint what you’d like changed about your eyelids, and help you visualize your goals. You might seek out an eye lift for any number of reasons, including: 

• To remove excess tissue blocking your sight 
• To tighten the skin around the eyes 
• To reduce bags under the eyes 
• To make it easier to apply makeup 
• To give your eyes a less hooded appearance 

During a blepharoplasty, Dr. Laughlin makes very tiny incisions along existing folds to prevent visible scarring. Then he removes excess tissue like skin, fat, and muscle until the area is contoured to your liking. Finally, the incisions are closed using medical adhesive or tiny stitches, and left to heal naturally. 

What to expect after eyelid lift surgery 

Blepharoplasty operations typically don’t require an overnight stay, so you should be able to go home that evening to recover in comfort. You will require downtime, especially if your line of work requires in-person visits or video calls. 

Like with any surgery, you’re going to experience some swelling and tenderness after the procedure. Dr. Laughlin will prescribe pain relief to manage discomfort, and you can also use over-the-counter painkillers and ice packs to alleviate inflammation. 

Don’t worry too much about how your eyes look in the days following surgery. Puffiness and bruising are to be expected, and will abate as your body heals. The appearance of the incisions should gradually become less noticeable until they’re indistinguishable from the natural creases of your eye. 

What not to do following surgery 

If you want your incisions to heal properly, it’s important that you follow your surgeon’s instructions and take time off. Avoid strenuous activities or exercise, and stop wearing contact lenses for at least a week or more. 

Itching is common post-op; in fact, it’s actually the sensation of your skin repairing itself. Resist the urge to itch, as this will only inflame the area and increase the risk of scarring. Should something concern you during your recovery, Dr. Laughlin will be there to take questions and give advice. 

Considering eyelid surgery? For a professional consultation, call Laughlin Plastic Surgery at 410-205-5629, or visit the contact page for more options.