Eyelid Surgery Recovery: 10 “Bleph Besties”
When it comes to recovery, it’s smooth sailing for most patients who undergo eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty. Very few report complications, and most people are back in public in one to two weeks looking more alive and youthful than they have in years.
That doesn’t mean you don’t need to plan for a few changes to your usual routine after your procedure. Here’s a list of 10 recovery aids, or “bleph besties,” you should think about having on hand.
- Pillows: Having plenty of pillows around after facial plastic surgery is a must. Not only will you need to get some rest for a few days, you will also want to elevate your head as much as possible to help keep swelling at bay. Soft, comfortable pillows will be your best friends for a few days post-op.
- Ice/cooling masks: While you rest, you should apply ice packs, cooling eye masks or even bags of small frozen vegetables much as you can. These will help reduce the feeling of tightness and soreness, and they also help minimize swelling.
- Eye drops: The extra moisture eye drops provide while your lids heal is both a comfort and a healing aid. Most patients use eye drops for at least several days; many use them for a few weeks or more.
- Anti-bruising aids: Most plastic surgeons recommend using an over the counter remedy such as Arnica Montana to help keep bruising to a minimum.
- Non-aspirin pain relievers: Your plastic surgeon will prescribe pain medication in case you need it for the first few days after surgery. Some patients don’t require prescription pain medication at all. In any case, having non-aspirin pain relievers on hand is essential as aspirin thins the blood and can contribute to bruising.
- Q-Tips: Q-Tips are great for helping you clean and care for your incisions for the first few days following surgery.
- Laxatives: Your plastic surgeon will advise you against any kind of straining after surgery, and that means in the bathroom too. Since your system may be “off” due to medication and diet changes, it’s a good idea to have a laxative on hand just in case.
- Music and movies: Sore eyes will not last long after surgery, but reading will not be the first leisure activity you’ll undertake and you will want to avoid the computer screen at first. Make sure to have soothing music on hand to encourage you to take it easy and a supply of movies or other programs you can watch while you relax.
- Sunglasses: Even if you never wear sunglasses, chances are you will need a pair after surgery for a while. Your eyes may still be a little sensitive the first time you go outside, and you need to protect your skin while healing is underway.
- Helpers: Last but definitely not least, you will need to gather a supporter or two to help you right after surgery. You’ll need someone to take you home after the procedure, and someone to stay with you for at least one night to make sure all is well. If you have young children and/or pets to care for, you might want some help at home for a few days, as bending and lifting will be prohibited.
Don’t worry that you need to get answers to your eyelid surgery questions all on your own. When you choose a reputable, experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon to perform your eyelid surgery, his or her entire staff will ensure you are ultra prepared for the experience. In fact, that’s one good measure for choosing the right surgeon—put yourself in the hands of one you know will support you every step of the way.
