What Are the Side Effects of Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery?

Dr. David Passaretti has helped numerous patients in and around Fairfield, CT look their absolute best, removing wrinkles and fighting signs of advanced age. One great option for achieving all of this is cosmetic eyelid surgery (aka blepharoplasty or eyelift), which can have a major impact on your overall appearance.

We'd like to take a moment to consider the surgery as well as what side effects patients can expect after the procedure has been completed.

About Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery

Cosmetic eyelid surgery is a procedure that can be performed in order to reduce the drooping, sagging, and puffiness of the upper eyelid or the lower eyelid. During the procedure, an incision is carefully made that allows surgeons to remove loose skin and improve the overall appearance of the eye area.

The results of cosmetic eyelid surgery can be quite dramatic. Patients who undergo the procedure will look refreshed and rejuvenated, and will generally look much younger and well rested.

Surgical Side Effects Are Natural and Part of Healing

All surgeries involve a few side effects as part of the recovery process. Let's take a moment to consider these right now.

Soreness and Discomfort

Soreness and discomfort around the eyes are very common side effects related to cosmetic eyelid surgery. Thankfully this soreness is manageable as long as you take your pain relievers as recommended by your surgeon.

Bruising and Swelling

Bruising and swelling are both common parts of the recovery process as well. In general, bruising will be its most serious in the first two weeks after surgery. Swelling around the eyes will typically be most noticeable in the first week or so, steadily going down after that.

Eyelid Irritation

Since an incision is made on the eyelid area, it's not uncommon for the eyelids themselves to feel irritated or itchy. Typically patients will be given a special medicated ointment that helps alleviate the irritation and keep the eyelids properly moisturized as well.

Dry Eye

In addition to irritation of eyelids and the skin around the eyes, it's not uncommon for patients to also experience dry or itchy eyes. In order to alleviate the dryness of the eyes and the itchiness that you may experience, it's a good idea to have liquid tears/lubricating eye drops on you at all times.

A Word on Post-Surgical Scarring

Scarring is to be expected after undergoing any sort of surgical procedure. Thankfully with cosmetic eyelid surgery, the scars are small and well hidden. For upper eyelid surgeries, the incision is hidden in the natural crease of the lid. For lower eyelid surgery, the incision is hidden beneath the lower eye lashes. In both cases, scarring is minimal, healing is typically excellent, and the scars are often not visible.

Attend All Follow-Up Visits as Scheduled

In order to ensure that there are no serious complications, it's important that patients attend all follow-up visits as scheduled. All of these follow-ups will ensure that you are recovering properly and that your healing is free from any difficulties or troubles.

Learn More About Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery

To learn more about cosmetic eyelid surgery and how it can help you achieve all of your aesthetic goals, be sure to contact our cosmetic plastic surgery center today. Dr. David Passaretti and the entire team here look forward to your visit and discussing your options for aesthetic enhancement in greater detail.