How Long Does It Take to See the Final Results of Blepharoplasty?

Posted February 10, 2025 in Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

Blepharoplasty, more commonly known as eyelid surgery, was the most popular facial cosmetic procedure in 2023, as more than 120,000 patients chose to enhance the appearance of their eyes by removing excess skin, fat, and muscle from their upper or lower eyelids. Whether performed for aesthetic reasons or to improve vision obstructed by sagging eyelids, one of the most common questions patients have is: How long does it take to see the final results of my blepharoplasty? In this blog, we will explore the different phases of blepharoplasty recovery, factors that influence healing, and actions you can take to optimize results so you know what to expect from blepharoplasty recovery.

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Understanding the Blepharoplasty Recovery Timeline

The healing process after blepharoplasty varies from person to person, but understanding the general timeline of your eyelid surgery recovery can help you manage your expectations and ensure a smooth post-surgery experience. The healing process after blepharoplasty often takes patience, as it occurs in multiple stages. Here’s a general breakdown of what to expect:

The First Few Days After Blepharoplasty Surgery

Immediately following blepharoplasty, patients can expect swelling and bruising around their eyes, as well as temporary blurry vision due to ointments or swelling. You will likely experience mild discomfort and a feeling of tightness around your eyes, as well as dry eyes or excessive watering.

After surgery, it’s crucial to follow Dr. Brian Boyd’s postoperative care instructions, which may include using cold compresses, keeping your head elevated, and avoiding strenuous activities.

The First Two Weeks After Blepharoplasty Surgery

Swelling and bruising typically peak within the first 48 hours after surgery, gradually subsiding over the next week or two. Residual bruising can be gently covered with light makeup after two weeks. Dr. Boyd will usually remove your sutures around five to seven days after surgery, and you will be able to return to work and other non-strenuous activities after 10 to 14 days. If you wear contacts, you can typically resume wearing them two weeks after surgery.

The First Month After Blepharoplasty Surgery

By the end of the first month of recovery after your blepharoplasty, the majority of swelling and bruising has resolved, allowing you to see a much-improved eyelid contour. However, some residual puffiness may still be present, particularly in the morning. Your incisions will still be pink and visible but will continue to fade over time.

Three to Six Months After Blepharoplasty Surgery

Between three and six months after your eyelid surgery, your eyes will look more natural as residual swelling continues to dissipate. The incision lines will gradually fade into thin, barely noticeable scars, which are typically hidden in the lower lash line or natural creases of the eyelids.

Six Months to One Year After Blepharoplasty Surgery

Your final blepharoplasty results are fully evident! You will see significant improvements in the appearance of your eyes within the first month or two after your blepharoplasty, but it often takes up to a year for swelling to disappear entirely and for scars to lighten. At this point, you will enjoy a refreshed and rejuvenated appearance, with smooth eyelids and unobscured vision. Few people will notice the scars and the rejuvenation is obvious.

Factors That Affect Blepharoplasty Healing Time

Several factors affect how quickly patients heal after blepharoplasty, including:

Individual Healing Response

Everyone’s body heals at a different rate based on age, genetics, and overall health.

Extent of Surgery

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty generally has a quicker recovery time than lower eyelid blepharoplasty. Combining upper and lower eyelid surgery or combining blepharoplasty with other cosmetic procedures (such as a brow lift) may extend healing times.

Postoperative Care

Following Dr. Boyd’s instructions to the letter is vital when it comes to successful healing and beautiful blepharoplasty results.

Lifestyle Choices

Healthy lifestyle choices help promote faster healing after blepharoplasty, so it is essential that you stay hydrated, eat a nutrient-rich diet to promote tissue healing, and engage in gentle movement to encourage circulation. You must avoid nicotine use and alcohol consumption, as these can delay healing, exacerbate swelling, and cause complications as you heal.

Tips for a Better Blepharoplasty Recovery

To ensure a smooth recovery after blepharoplasty surgery, you should:

• Get plenty of rest
• Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes
• Sleep with your head elevated
• Use cold compresses to help reduce swelling and bruising
• Use all prescribed eye drops and ointments
• Give your eyes a break by limiting screen time
• Limit sun exposure and wear sunglasses when you’re outside
• Avoid strenuous activities and exercise until cleared by Dr. Boyd

Most importantly, be patient with the healing process. Your blepharoplasty results will be worth the wait!

When to Contact Your Surgeon During Blepharoplasty Recovery

While most patients recover from eyelid surgery without complications, as with any surgical procedure, complications are possible, including:

• Severe or worsening pain
• Excessive bleeding
• Redness, warmth, or discharge (signs of infection)
• Sudden vision changes
• Persistent swelling beyond the expected timeline

If you experience any of the above symptoms, contact Dr. Boyd immediately.

Learn More About Blepharoplasty in the South Bay

If you’re tired of looking tired and want to rejuvenate your eyes with blepharoplasty surgery, it’s time to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Boyd. Dr. Boyd is a board-certified plastic surgeon skilled and experienced in creating the delicate nuances of gorgeous blepharoplasty results. To discover if you’re a good candidate for blepharoplasty surgery, call our office today at (310) 597-4734 or complete the online contact form.