Preparing for Recovery After Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty Recovery in Chicago

Knowing what to expect and being well-prepared helps blepharoplasty patients at my Chicago practice feel more confident about their eyelid surgery and the recovery process. Many cosmetic surgery patients express more concern about the recovery than the actual procedure, which is why I provide detailed post-op instructions and several tips before the operation.

I’ve spent much of my career involved in would healing and scar prevention research, leading to advanced surgical techniques that minimize trauma and speed up the healing process. Most of my blepharoplasty patients feel comfortable being seen in social situations within 7 to 10 days after the procedure. Typically, patients experience some bruising and swelling, but any discomfort is usually well-managed with over-the-counter medication.

I’ve performed thousands of blepharoplasty procedures in my career and complications are rare. I emphasize to patients that closely following my detailed post-op instructions helps greatly reduce the chances of complications. In addition to that, here are several other tips that help patients recover quickly and comfortably after eyelid surgery:

  1. Prepare meals ahead of time: Even when you have a spouse or partner to make your meals, having food ready to warm up can be a welcome respite. Your partner will be busy helping in other ways and will appreciate this advanced preparation.
  2. Have your spouse, friend, or other loved one drive you to and from the operation and your post-op appointments. If you live alone, ask someone to check in with you during the healing process.
  3. If you’re responsible for caring for your children or grandchildren, make sure you’ve coordinated with someone you trust to take over those duties. The same goes for taking care of pets.
  4. Having a comfortable resting area already set up when you arrive home from the operation helps immensely. Have your phone, TV remotes, iPad, water bottles, books, and anything else you’ll want within close reach.
  5. Buy extra ice packs, gel packs or even bags of frozen peas.   Applying ice to the surgical area helps minimize bruising. However, after the first 8 hours cooling is not necessary.
  6. Be open to any assistance offered by friends or family. Some patients want to “tough it out” and pride themselves on being independent.   Get out and walk around.  Sunglasses will generally allow you to feel comfortable in public within a couple of days.
  7. Sleep with your head elevated for several days.  An easy way to accomplish this is to put a sofa cushion underneath the mattress at the head of the bed.

Finally, don’t hesitate to contact my plastic surgery practice in Chicago by email or phone with any questions you have throughout your recovery. We are always glad to make ourselves available.

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