Plastic Surgeon in Hertfordshire

Lower Eyelid Surgery Aftercare: Recovery Tips and Timeline

Jul 14, 2025

Key Takeaways

  • Lower blepharoplasty recovery typically follows a predictable pattern, with most swelling and bruising peaking at 48-72 hours post-surgery and gradually improving thereafter.
  • The first 48 hours are critical for recovery—focus on rest, cold compress application, medication management, and keeping your head elevated.
  • Sleep with your head elevated at 30-45 degrees and on your back for at least the first week to minimize swelling and protect surgical results.
  • Protect your eyes from sun exposure, avoid contact lens use for at least two weeks, and use artificial tears as recommended to combat dryness.
  • Resume light activities within 7-10 days, but avoid strenuous exercise for 2-3 weeks and swimming for 4-6 weeks.
  • Watch for warning signs of complications, including increasing pain, excessive asymmetrical swelling, unusual discharge, or vision changes.
  • Complete healing occurs gradually—while most visible recovery takes place within 2-3 weeks, final results emerge over 3-6 months as tissues settle.

Table of Contents

Understanding Lower Blepharoplasty Recovery: What to Expect

Lower eyelid surgery, or lower blepharoplasty, is a sophisticated procedure designed to rejuvenate the under-eye area by addressing excess skin, fat deposits, and wrinkles. While the surgical technique itself is crucial, proper recovery care is equally important for achieving optimal results. At our London clinic, we emphasise comprehensive aftercare to ensure the best possible outcome for our patients.

The recovery journey following lower eyelid surgery varies from person to person, but generally follows a predictable pattern. Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort, swelling, and bruising during the initial recovery phase. These symptoms are completely normal and gradually subside over time. Understanding what to expect during this healing process can help alleviate anxiety and ensure you’re prepared for each stage of recovery.

It’s important to note that while visible improvements will be noticeable within weeks, the final results of your blepharoplasty procedure may take several months to fully manifest. The delicate tissues around the eyes require time to heal completely and settle into their new position. Patience during this process is essential, as rushing recovery through non-compliance with aftercare instructions may compromise your results or lead to complications.

The First 48 Hours: Critical Post-Op Care Instructions

The initial 48 hours following your lower eyelid surgery are crucial for establishing the foundation of a smooth recovery. During this period, your primary focus should be on rest, medication management, and proper wound care. Most patients return home the same day as their procedure, so having a responsible adult to assist you during the first 24 hours is essential.

Immediately after surgery, you’ll likely experience some discomfort, tightness, and sensitivity around the treated area. Your surgeon will prescribe appropriate pain medication to manage any discomfort. Take these medications exactly as directed, neither exceeding the recommended dosage nor skipping doses to prevent pain from escalating. If you’ve been prescribed antibiotics, complete the entire course even if you feel well.

Cold compress application is vital during this period. Apply cold compresses or ice packs wrapped in a clean cloth to the surgical area for 15-20 minutes every hour while awake. This helps reduce swelling and minimise bruising. Be careful not to apply ice directly to the skin or place excessive pressure on the surgical site. Keep your head elevated at all times—even during sleep—to minimise fluid accumulation around the eyes.

Wound care is straightforward but important. Your surgeon may have placed small strips or stitches along the incision lines. Keep these areas clean and dry, and avoid touching them unnecessarily. If you notice excessive bleeding, severe pain, or unusual discharge, contact your surgeon immediately as these may indicate complications requiring prompt attention.

Managing Swelling and Bruising After Lower Eyelid Surgery

Swelling and bruising are inevitable aspects of lower blepharoplasty recovery, but their severity and duration can be significantly reduced with proper management techniques. Most patients experience peak swelling around 48-72 hours post-surgery, with gradual improvement thereafter. Bruising typically appears as purple-blue discolouration initially, then transitions to yellow-green before fading completely.

Cold compress application remains your primary tool for swelling management during the first 72 hours. After this initial period, you may switch to warm compresses if recommended by your surgeon, as these can help improve circulation and accelerate the resolution of bruising. Apply warm compresses for 15-20 minutes several times daily, ensuring the compress is comfortably warm but not hot.

Dietary modifications can significantly impact swelling reduction. Foods rich in salt cause fluid retention, potentially exacerbating swelling. Limit sodium intake and focus instead on fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme with natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling. Staying well-hydrated is also essential, as proper hydration helps flush toxins and reduce inflammation.

Arnica montana, available as oral supplements or topical gels, is often recommended for its potential to reduce bruising and swelling. While scientific evidence varies, many patients report benefits from its use. Always consult your surgeon before taking any supplements, as some may interfere with healing or interact with prescribed medications. Remember that while these measures can help manage swelling and bruising, some degree of these symptoms is normal and will resolve naturally with time.

How Should You Sleep After Lower Eyelid Surgery?

Proper sleeping position following lower eyelid surgery is crucial for minimising swelling and protecting your surgical results. For at least the first week post-procedure, you should sleep with your head elevated at approximately 30-45 degrees. This elevation helps prevent fluid accumulation around the eyes, which can exacerbate swelling and potentially compromise healing.

The most effective way to maintain this elevated position is by using multiple pillows or a wedge pillow specifically designed for post-surgical recovery. Some patients find that sleeping in a recliner chair provides the most consistent elevation. Regardless of your chosen method, ensure that your head remains higher than your heart throughout the night. This position utilises gravity to reduce pressure and fluid build-up in the delicate tissues around your eyes.

Beyond elevation, sleeping on your back is strongly recommended. Side or stomach sleeping can place direct pressure on the surgical site, potentially disrupting sutures or causing asymmetrical swelling. To prevent accidentally rolling onto your side during sleep, some patients find it helpful to place pillows alongside their body as physical barriers.

Quality sleep is essential for healing, yet many patients struggle with discomfort during the early recovery period. Establishing a calming bedtime routine and ensuring your sleeping environment is cool, dark, and quiet can help improve sleep quality. If you’re having significant difficulty sleeping, consult your surgeon about safe sleep aids that won’t interfere with your healing process. Remember that these sleeping position requirements are temporary—most patients can gradually return to their preferred sleeping position after 2-3 weeks, once initial healing is complete.

Eye Protection and Vision Care During Recovery

Protecting your eyes during the recovery period is paramount to achieving optimal results from your lower eyelid surgery. The delicate tissues around your eyes are particularly vulnerable during healing, requiring specific care measures to prevent complications and ensure comfort. Most patients experience temporary visual changes such as blurriness or sensitivity to light, which typically resolve within the first week post-surgery.

Sun protection becomes critically important during recovery. UV exposure can worsen swelling, delay healing, and potentially lead to hyperpigmentation of incision sites. When venturing outdoors, even on cloudy days, wear dark, wraparound sunglasses that provide full UV protection. Additionally, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to the surrounding facial areas, being careful to avoid getting the product directly in your eyes or on incision sites until fully healed.

Contact lens wearers must temporarily switch to glasses for at least two weeks following surgery. The manipulation required to insert and remove contacts can place pressure on healing tissues and potentially introduce infection. Your surgeon will advise when it’s safe to resume contact lens wear based on your individual healing progress.

Digital eye strain can exacerbate discomfort during recovery. Limit screen time during the first week, and when computer use is necessary, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Using artificial tears as recommended by your surgeon can help combat dryness, which is common after blepharoplasty. Avoid rubbing your eyes, even if you experience itchiness during healing, as this can damage delicate tissues and compromise your results.

Activity Restrictions: When to Resume Normal Routines

Following lower eyelid surgery, adhering to activity restrictions is essential for proper healing and optimal results. While recovery timelines vary between individuals, general guidelines can help you navigate the return to your normal routines safely. Most patients can resume light daily activities within 7-10 days, but more strenuous activities require a longer hiatus.

During the first week post-surgery, focus on rest and recovery. Light walking around your home is encouraged to promote circulation, but avoid any activity that increases blood pressure or places strain on the face. This includes bending over, lifting objects heavier than 2-3 kg, and household chores requiring exertion. When bending becomes necessary, bend at the knees rather than the waist to minimise pressure in the eye area.

Exercise restrictions are particularly important. Cardiovascular activities that increase heart rate and blood pressure should be avoided for at least 2-3 weeks, as they can exacerbate swelling and potentially lead to bleeding complications. When you do resume exercise, start with gentle walking and gradually increase intensity over several weeks. Weight training, high-impact activities, and swimming typically require a 4-6 week hiatus, with your surgeon providing personalised guidance based on your healing progress.

Returning to work depends largely on your occupation and comfort level with visible recovery signs. Office workers can typically return within 7-10 days, while those with physically demanding jobs may need 2-3 weeks off. If your work involves significant computer use, consider reduced hours initially and implement frequent breaks to prevent eye strain. Social engagements can generally be resumed after 2 weeks, though residual bruising may still be present and can be camouflaged with makeup once your surgeon approves its use—typically around the 10-14 day mark.

Preventing Complications: Warning Signs to Watch For

While complications following lower eyelid surgery are relatively uncommon, being vigilant about potential warning signs ensures prompt intervention if issues arise. Understanding the difference between normal recovery symptoms and those requiring medical attention is crucial for a smooth healing process. Most complications, when identified early, can be effectively managed without long-term consequences.

Infection, though rare, presents with increased redness, warmth, yellow or green discharge, and worsening pain rather than improvement. Maintaining scrupulous hygiene around the surgical area and completing your full course of prescribed antibiotics significantly reduces infection risk. If you notice these symptoms, contact your surgeon immediately, as prompt treatment with appropriate antibiotics is essential.

Excessive or asymmetrical swelling that worsens after the first week rather than improving may indicate a hematoma (blood collection) or unusual fluid accumulation. While some asymmetry during healing is normal, significant differences between eyes or sudden increases in swelling warrant immediate medical evaluation. Similarly, vision changes such as double vision, significant blurring that doesn’t improve, or visual field defects require urgent assessment.

Eyelid malposition, including lower lid retraction (pulling down) or ectropion (outward turning of the lid), may become apparent during recovery. Early identification of these issues allows for conservative management with massage techniques or eye exercises before surgical revision becomes necessary. Excessive tearing or conversely, unusual dryness that persists beyond the first few weeks should also be reported to your surgeon, as these may indicate issues with tear duct function or ocular surface healing that require specific interventions.

Complete Healing Timeline: Week by Week Progress

Understanding the typical healing timeline following lower eyelid surgery helps set realistic expectations and provides reassurance during your recovery journey. While individual healing varies based on factors such as age, overall health, and surgical technique, most patients follow a predictable progression of healing milestones.

Days 1-3: The immediate post-operative period is characterised by moderate swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Your eyes may feel tight, and vision might be temporarily blurry due to ointments and swelling. Cold compresses and head elevation are crucial during this phase. Most patients require pain medication during these initial days.

Days 4-7: Swelling typically peaks around day three and begins to subside thereafter. Bruising may appear more pronounced as it begins to track downward with gravity, often appearing worse before it improves. By the end of the first week, discomfort should be minimal, though tightness and sensitivity around the incisions remain normal. Some patients may have their stitches removed during this period if non-dissolving sutures were used.

Weeks 2-3: Most visible bruising resolves during this period, though some yellow discolouration may persist. Swelling continues to decrease significantly, revealing more of your results. Many patients feel comfortable returning to social activities and work during this time. Sensitivity around the incision sites gradually diminishes, though occasional itching may occur as nerves regenerate.

Weeks 4-6: By this stage, most residual swelling has resolved, though subtle swelling that’s noticeable only to you may persist, particularly in the mornings. Incision lines begin to mature and fade from red to pink. Most activity restrictions are lifted by the six-week mark, allowing return to normal exercise routines and more strenuous activities.

Months 3-6: During this period, any remaining subtle swelling resolves completely. Scar maturation continues, with incision lines becoming less noticeable. The final results of your surgery become fully apparent as tissues settle into their new position. Sensation around the lower eyelids returns to normal as nerve healing completes.

Remember that patience is essential during the healing process. While you’ll see progressive improvement each week, the final, refined results of lower eyelid surgery emerge gradually over several months. Following your surgeon’s specific aftercare instructions optimises this timeline and helps ensure the best possible outcome from your procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does swelling last after lower blepharoplasty?

Swelling after lower blepharoplasty typically peaks around 48-72 hours post-surgery and begins to subside thereafter. Most visible swelling resolves within 2-3 weeks, though subtle swelling may persist for up to 3 months. Complete resolution of all swelling, including microscopic tissue swelling, occurs by 6 months post-surgery. Cold compresses during the first 72 hours and proper head elevation significantly reduce swelling duration.

When can I wear makeup after lower eyelid surgery?

Most surgeons allow makeup application around the eyes approximately 10-14 days after lower blepharoplasty, once incisions have adequately healed. Begin with new, clean products to minimize infection risk, and avoid pulling or tugging on the delicate eyelid skin during application and removal. Mineral-based makeup is often recommended initially as it’s less likely to irritate healing tissues. Always confirm timing with your specific surgeon before resuming makeup use.

Is lower blepharoplasty recovery painful?

Lower blepharoplasty recovery typically involves mild to moderate discomfort rather than severe pain. Most patients describe feelings of tightness, pressure, and sensitivity around the eyes during the first week. Prescription pain medication is usually only needed for the first 2-3 days, after which over-the-counter analgesics like acetaminophen are sufficient. Cold compresses significantly reduce discomfort, and pain that increases rather than decreases after the first few days should be reported to your surgeon.

When can I exercise after lower eyelid surgery?

Exercise after lower blepharoplasty should be resumed gradually according to this timeline: light walking is encouraged immediately to promote circulation; gentle cardio like stationary cycling can begin after 2 weeks; moderate exercise can resume at 3 weeks; and strenuous activities including weight training, high-impact exercises, and swimming should be avoided for 4-6 weeks. Activities that increase blood pressure can exacerbate swelling and potentially cause bleeding complications if resumed too early.

How do I reduce the risk of scarring after lower blepharoplasty?

To minimize scarring after lower blepharoplasty: follow all post-operative care instructions precisely; keep incisions clean and protected; avoid sun exposure on the incision sites for at least 6 months; apply silicone-based scar products as recommended by your surgeon (typically starting 2-3 weeks post-surgery); maintain proper nutrition rich in vitamins A, C, and zinc to support healing; and avoid smoking, which significantly impairs wound healing and increases scar visibility.

When will I see final results from my lower eyelid surgery?

While initial improvements are visible once major swelling subsides around 2-3 weeks post-surgery, final results from lower blepharoplasty emerge gradually. Most patients see approximately 70% of their results by 6 weeks, 90% by 3 months, and 100% by 6 months when all tissue healing is complete and scars have fully matured. Patience during this healing timeline is essential, as the delicate tissues around the eyes require time to settle into their new position.

What should I eat to promote healing after blepharoplasty?

Optimal healing after blepharoplasty is supported by a nutrient-rich diet including: protein sources like lean meats, eggs, and legumes to rebuild tissues; vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruits and bell peppers to promote collagen formation; zinc-containing foods like nuts and seeds to support immune function; omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish to reduce inflammation; and adequate hydration with 8-10 glasses of water daily. Avoid high-sodium foods that increase swelling and limit alcohol consumption which can exacerbate bruising.