Blepharoplasty, also known as an eye lift, is a form of cosmetic surgery in which loose skin, fat and muscle are removed from the upper and lower eyelids. According to the University of Michigan Department of Plastic Surgery, eye lifts can reduce wrinkles, puffiness and drooping around the eyes. Following correct recovery procedures after an eye lift can help ensure you heal correctly and don't experience complications.
Preparation
Take at least one week off for recovery time. Your eyes will be bruised and swollen for approximately one to two weeks. You won't be able to cover up the bruises with makeup until the stitches are removed, which is usually within five to seven days of the surgery. Once the stitches are removed, you'll be able to apply makeup to the bruises if you need to go back to work.
Medication
Only take pain medication that your doctor prescribes. The University of Michigan Department of Plastic Surgery advises against taking aspirin or any products containing aspirin. Take the pain medication prescribed for you as directed. Avoid drinking alcohol for three weeks after your eye lift because it could cause you to retain water and prevent the swelling from subsiding.
Physical Activity
Start walking as soon as you can after your surgery. Walking will help circulate your blood and prevent blood clots. Proper blood circulation can also help reduce swelling. Wait three days before doing anything that could strain your eyes, such as watching television, working at a computer or reading.
Do not perform any strenuous actions that will raise your blood pressure. Even bending over or lifting objects can raise your blood pressure and potentially complicate proper healing. Avoid any activity (except walking) for three to five days after your eye tuck. You can perform light activities after that, but wait three weeks before doing strenuous activities, such as sports or cardiovascular exercise.
Diet
Eat a healthy, well balanced diet of lean protein, whole grains, dairy, fruits and vegetables. According to the University of Michigan Department of Plastic Surgery, you may experience constipation because you won't be able to be as physically active. Eat raw fruit every day to help alleviate constipation and drink approximately 64 oz. of water to prevent dehydration.
Incisions
Properly clean and care for your incisions to promote healing and minimize scarring. Do not lie flat during the first week of healing because it prevents the swelling around your incisions from going down. Prop your head with at least two pillows when in bed. Place a cold saline compress over the incision area for the first 24 hours to minimize bruising and swelling. Wash the incisions twice a day with soap and warm water. Once the doctor removes the stitches, keep the area covered with sunblock with SPF 30 or higher whenever you go outdoors because the area will be sensitive to sunlight.
Complications
Seek immediate medical attention if your eyes begin to become more bruised or swollen over the first two days of recovery. The area should slowly go down, so increased swelling could be a sign of a complication. Check your incisions often and contact your doctor if they start leaking yellow or light green fluid. Do not ignore any unusual symptoms, such as rash or fever, as they could mean your body is not healing properly from the surgery.
