Eyelid surgery is a popular cosmetic procedure. Here are some tips on how to manage pain after eyelid surgery and recover post-surgery.
Feeling pain after eyelid surgery? Don’t fret. Along with swelling and blurred vision, pain is perfectly normal and should subside as you recover.
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is one of the most popular types of cosmetic surgery. More than 209,000 procedures took place in 2017 alone.
This intervention is less invasive than breast augmentation or tummy tucks, but still carries risks.
Although one can attempt different methods to recover faster and minimize the discomfort, it’s best to wait for a professional opinion. Your doctor will make recommendations based on your specific needs.
In the meantime, there are still a few generally advised strategies to manage pain after eye surgery and prevent complications.
Knowing What to Expect
Over time, eyelids lose their firmness and flexibility. The muscles supporting them weaken and the skin becomes looser. This may lead to droopy eyelids, sagging eyebrows, baggy eyes, and poor vision.
Blepharoplasty can fix these issues and rejuvenate your look. When done right, it can take years off your face and improve your vision.
All types of surgery carry risks and may cause pain or discomfort in the first few days. Blepharoplasty is no exception. After the procedure, you may experience:
- Blurred or double vision
- Mild to moderate pain
- Bruising and swelling
- Light sensitivity
- Puffy eyelids
- Tired eyes
- Itchy eyes
According to a study published in the Annals of Plastic Surgery, pain tends to peak around 4.4 hours after surgery. Likewise, swelling peaks at 17 hours, blurred vision at 8.7 hours, and bruising at 33.6 hours.
The pain is typically mild to moderate and can last for up to seven days.
How to Relieve Pain After Eyelid Surgery
Depending on the circumstances, your doctor may prescribe pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs within the first few days after surgery.
Beware though, that not all pain medications are safe. Some drugs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, may increase bleeding and affect recovery. Don’t take any medications without your doctor’s approval.
For every hour on the night after the procedure, you may need to apply ice packs or cold compresses on your eyes. This helps reduce pain and swelling.
Makeup products, eye serums, face creams, and other cosmetics contain chemicals that may damage the skin around your eyes; Avoid them for two weeks or so. If you wash your hair, make sure to keep water, shampoo, and soap out of your eyes.
Your doctor may also recommend antibiotic ointments and eye drops. Use them as prescribed. These medications prevent infections and ensure a smooth recovery.
Give Your Eyes a Well-Deserved Break
Your body needs time to fix damaged tissues. That’s why it’s recommended to get plenty of sleep and follow a balanced diet after the intervention.
Also, take some time off from exercising and doing house chores. Your doctor will likely recommend avoiding heavy lifting, high-impact aerobics, jogging, and other intense activities for around a week.
Stop smoking and limit your exposure in the first few weeks after surgery. Don’t drive until you’re no longer taking any narcotics and/or other pain relievers.
Refrain from using the computer, reading, and watching TV for more than a couple of minutes, as your eyes will get tired easily.
Get Rid of Sagging Eyelids and Feel Like Yourself Again
Now that you know what to do after eyelid surgery, it’s time to decide whether the procedure is right for you. Discuss your options with a qualified surgeon. Don’t be afraid to ask questions so you know what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
Pain is part of the recovery process. If you follow the doctor’s recommendations, you should feel better within a few days.
Make sure you check out our guide to learn more about this procedure and what it entails!