Recovery typically includes some swelling and bruising for the first two weeks, with most patients returning to work within 5 to 10 days. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities and to protect their eyes from sunlight and wind. Full recovery and final results may take several weeks to months, during which time patients should follow their surgeon's care instructions closely.
While blepharoplasty is generally safe, it carries potential risks like temporary blurred or double vision, infection, bleeding, and difficulty closing the eyes completely. More severe but rare risks include permanent loss of vision. Asymmetry and other minor complications might require further surgery.
The procedure involves making incisions in the natural creases of the eyelids for upper blepharoplasties or just below the lash line for lower blepharoplasties. Through these incisions, excess tissue is removed or repositioned, and the incisions are then closed with fine sutures. Techniques vary depending on the specific conditions being addressed and whether fat needs to be removed or redistributed.