As we age, the anxiety and, yes, gravity we have endured for years begin to reveal themselves on our faces, primarily in our eyes, in the form of wrinkles. One way to fight the advances of aging is through facial rejuvenation, namely the lifting of the eyelids through surgery. For many, the recovery process for this type of procedure might be more concerning than the procedure itself.
Eyelid surgery, or, as it is technically called, Blepharoplasty, can help reduce sagging skin from around the eyes. This procedure doesn’t only appeal to cosmetic needs; many individuals seek it to help with vision, when the skin around the eyes has become an obstruction. While eyelid surgery is appealing to many, the unknown of the post-operative recovery and pain might cause some to reject it entirely. But rest assured–being well-informed and under supervision of a talented plastic surgeon like Dr. Klein are all it will take to recover from your surgery more vibrant and confident than ever.
As far as treatment is concerned, you may have a piece of adhesive taped near your eye, which you will be instructed not to remove. In the one to two weeks following the procedure, you may experience itchiness in your eyes, but not to worry; your surgeon might prescribe eye drops to treat this, as well as cleansing products to keep the incision sanitized, which will prevent future dryness. An icy compress can help to reduce swelling, as can keeping your head elevated. And, of course, keep an eye out for any changes in the incision, as this can be sign of infection.
For pain, your surgeon can prescribe medication, but most patients find that over-the-counter medication does the trick. You are generally advised to steer clear of pain medications that might increase bleeding. Discuss with your doctor any other medications that your might take regularly to ensure that they are safe for the recovery process.
Recovery for eyelid surgery is typically described as being “uncomfortable,” but nothing more than that, and it is a relatively speedy process. Of course, working with a plastic surgeon that is experienced and dependable can make the surgery and recovery seamless and easy. Dr. Klein is one of the most trusted plastic surgeons in North Carolina and will be here to help you every step of the way!
