How Long Does It Take to Recover from Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure, meaning you return home the same day. Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable the healing process is. There is some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort, especially during the first week, but pain is usually minimal and controlled with over-the-counter medication and simple home remedies like cold compresses.
The majority of patients find that recovery is faster and easier than anticipated—especially when following their surgeon’s instructions.
What to Expect Week by Week After Your Eyelid Surgery
Immediate Recovery: Day of Surgery
After the procedure, you will rest in a recovery area before heading home the same day. Your vision may be slightly blurry from lubricating ointments, and mild discomfort is common. Cold compresses can help minimize swelling. Keep your head elevated, avoid strenuous movement, and use prescribed medications as directed.
Initial Recovery Period (Days 1–7)
Swelling and bruising peak within the first three days. Continue using cold compresses, avoid bending or heavy lifting, and rest as much as possible. Sutures are generally removed within 5–7 days. Light activities may be resumed, but avoid vigorous exercise, swimming, or exposure to dust and wind.
Weeks 2–3: Post-Surgical Adjustments
Swelling and bruising subside significantly. Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities. Makeup can typically be applied to conceal any discoloration once incisions have healed.
Weeks 4–6: Intermediate Healing Phase
Gradually return to more strenuous activities, but always follow your surgeon’s advice. Eyelids continue to settle, and incisions fade. Some residual swelling or numbness may persist but is usually mild.
Months 2–6: Long-Term Results and Full Recovery
Visible results are apparent within a few weeks, but the final outcome—where scars mature and swelling fully resolves—generally takes 3–6 months. Be patient with the healing process. Protect your eyes from sun exposure, and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments for optimal results.
Recovery Differences: Upper, Lower, and Quad Blepharoplasty
Recovery time and experience can vary depending on whether you have upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both (often called “quad blepharoplasty”).
Upper blepharoplasty
It typically involves less swelling and bruising, with most patients feeling comfortable returning to normal activities within 7-10 days. Because incisions are hidden in the eyelid crease, scars heal quickly and discreetly.
Lower blepharoplasty
Lower blepharoplasty addresses under-eye bags and puffiness, often results in a bit more swelling and bruising, especially during the first two weeks, since the lower eyelid area is more delicate and prone to fluid retention. Recovery may also take slightly longer, and patients might experience temporary tightness or mild dryness.
Quad blepharoplasty
It’s where both upper and lower eyelids are treated in one procedure, combines elements of each recovery experience. Patients can expect a bit more initial swelling and bruising, and a slightly longer downtime (about 10–14 days before most social activities), but the majority return to normal routines within two weeks. Regardless of the type, following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions and allowing time for gentle healing ensures the best possible results.
- Use cold compresses during the first 48 hours to minimize swelling.
- Keep your head elevated, even while sleeping.
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions on cleaning incisions and using prescribed ointments or drops.
- Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for at least 2 weeks.
- Don’t smoke and minimize alcohol, as these can impair healing.
- Wear sunglasses to protect sensitive eyes from sun and wind.
Tips for a Smooth Eyelid Surgery Recovery
When Can You Resume Normal Activities?
Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how quickly they can return to their regular routines after blepharoplasty, but the timeline for resuming specific activities varies depending on the nature of your job, the extent of your surgery, and how smoothly your healing progresses. In general, you can expect to return to desk work or other non-strenuous jobs within 7 to 10 days, once swelling and bruising have diminished to the point that you feel comfortable being seen in public. Wearing makeup to conceal any residual discoloration is typically permitted after 10 to 14 days, as long as the incisions have healed sufficiently and your surgeon gives the go-ahead—this helps protect the delicate eyelid skin during its early healing phase. While light activities, such as gentle walking, are encouraged soon after surgery to promote circulation, it’s important to avoid more strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or activities that could raise your blood pressure for at least two to three weeks, as these could increase swelling or risk bleeding. If you wear contact lenses, you’ll generally need to wait about two weeks before resuming use, allowing the eyelids ample time to recover and minimize irritation; always check with your surgeon before reinserting lenses. Finally, you can usually drive once your vision is clear, your eyelids move comfortably, and you are no longer taking prescription pain medications that could impair your reaction time. By listening to your body and following your surgeon’s individualized recommendations, you’ll enjoy a safe, steady return to the activities you love.
Conclusion
Recovery from blepharoplasty is a straightforward process for most patients, with noticeable improvements in just one week and final, beautiful results in a few short months. By following your surgeon’s advice and caring for yourself during the early stages, you can enjoy a smooth recovery and long-lasting eyelid rejuvenation.
Have questions about eyelid surgery recovery? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Jayaram to get answers personalized to your needs and lifestyle.
Dr. Ann Jayaram
April 24, 2025
