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Eyelid lift

• Overview
• Recovery
• Risks

Alternative Names:

Blepharoplasty

Expectations after surgery:

Scars may remain slightly pink for 6 months or more after surgery. They will fade eventually to a thin, nearly invisible white line. The more alert and youthful look usually lasts for years. These results are permanent for many people.

Convalescence:

You can usually leave the hospital the day of surgery. Before you leave, a doctor or nurse will cover your eyes and eyelids with ointment and a bandage. Your eyelids may feel tight and sore as the numbing medicine wears off. However, the discomfort is easily controlled with pain medication.

Keep your head raised up as much as possible for several days. Place cold packs over the area to reduce swelling and bruising.

Your doctor may recommend eyedrops to reduce burning or itching.

You should be able to see well after 2 to 3 days. Do not wear contact lenses for at least 2 weeks. Keep activities to a minimum for 3 to 5 days, and avoid strenuous activities that raise the blood pressure for about 3 weeks. This includes lifting, bending, and rigorous sports.

Your doctor will remove the stitches 2 to 7 days after surgery. You will have some bruising, which may last 2 to 4 weeks. You may notice increased tears, increased sensitivity to light and wind, and temporary vision changes (such as blurring or double vision) for the first few weeks.

References:

Bosniak S. Reconstructive upper lid blepharoplasty. Ophthalmol Clin North Am . Jun 2005; 18(2): 279-89, vi.

Hoenig JA. Comprehensive management of eyebrow and forehead ptosis. Otolaryngol Clin North Am . Oct 2005; 38(5): 947-84.

• Review Date: 2/22/2007
• Reviewed By: Manju Subramanian, MD, Assistant Professor in Ophthalmology, Vitreoretinal Disease and Surgery, Boston University Eye Associates, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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