Why Do My Eyelids Look Droopy?
Droopy eyelids are a common problem for many people, becoming even more common with age. Here, learn some of the common causes of droopy lids and what we can do to help.
Recovering from Eyelid Surgery
Every year in the United States, more than 350,000 eyelid surgeries are performed, either to correct vision issues associated with drooping lids or to improve the aesthetic appearance of the lids. Also called blepharoplasty, eyelid surgery consistently ranks among the top five cosmetic surgical procedures among Americans.
At Advanced Eye Center in Hialeah, Florida, Rodrigo Belalcazar, MD, uses advanced blepharoplasty techniques to correct functional issues and to help the eyes appear more alert and youthful. In this post, he offers a quick review of what to expect as you recover from your eyelid surgery.
Right after your procedure
Immediately after your eyelid surgery, you’ll stay in a recovery area for a little while so you can be monitored. Once you’re ready to go home, you’ll need to have someone on hand to drive you.
During this very early stage of recovery, you can expect some puffiness and mild discomfort in your lids. Your eyes may be extra sensitive to light, or they may feel dry or irritated. Your vision may be temporarily blurry.
Swelling around the eyes is also common, along with bruising. Some people say their eyelids feel numb immediately afterward. We’ll provide you with medicine to help you manage any discomfort, along with a special ointment to prevent infections and help your lids heal.
Plan to take a few days off during this time to give yourself plenty of time to rest. Keep your head elevated to reduce swelling, and follow your care instructions closely. While over-the-counter pain medicines may be helpful, only take them with Dr. Belalcazar’s approval, since these medicines may increase bleeding. If you have any questions, call the office and we’ll be happy to help.
During your recovery
Once you’re home, the real recovery begins. Resting during this period is essential, and you’ll also need to be vigilant about avoiding sun exposure in your eye area. Wearing sunglasses anytime you go outside is imperative. Adding a wide-brimmed hat is a good idea, too.
During the first 2-3 weeks, your bruising will subside. Don’t wear makeup or use contact lenses until Dr. Belalcazar says it’s OK. Most people return to work and other public activities within 5-7 days of their surgery.
Swelling can take a little longer to completely resolve. Using cold compresses and sleeping with your head elevated can help speed the process along. Don’t rub your eyes, since doing so could cause complications and prolong the healing process.
Avoid any strenuous activity during the first week or two of recovery. Dr. Belalcazar will let you know how soon you can return to your normal routine.
Eyelid surgery involves incisions, and that means you’ll have scars. However, Dr. Belalcazar uses special techniques to help hide blepharoplasty scars inside the lids or along the lid folds. Be sure to apply any creams or ointments he prescribes, which may help your scars fade.
The right treatment for your needs
While eyelid surgery is a safe, effective, and popular option for many patients, in some instances, Dr. Belalcazar might recommend an alternative treatment, depending on your needs and goals. For some patients, nonsurgical Plexr® treatment is a good choice. This treatment uses plasma energy technology to tighten loose skin without incisions or surgery.
If you have drooping lids, Dr. Belalcazar can help you find just the right solution to help improve your vision and appearance. To learn more about blepharoplasty and its alternatives, call 305-707-6011 or book an appointment online with Advanced Eye Center today.
You Might Also Enjoy...
How to Treat Eye Wrinkles Without Surgery
Your eye area is often the first to show the ravages of time. Fortunately, Plexr® offers a nonsurgical approach to smooth out wrinkles and lines and leave you looking refreshed and younger.
5 Unexpected Benefits of LASIK
LASIK is a popular eye surgery for millions of people who want clearer vision without glasses or contacts. But that’s just one of its benefits. Here, learn five more benefits you might not know about.
Reasons You’re Struggling to Drive at Night
Nighttime poses unique challenges for drivers, but for some people, those challenges can be worrisome. Worse, nighttime driving problems tend to affect all of us as we get older. Here’s why these issues happen and what we can do to help.
Say Goodbye to Sagging Skin Without Surgery
Plexr® is an innovative, noninvasive, skin-tightening system that helps tone and tighten skin without incisions, anesthesia, or injections. Here’s how it can help you enjoy smoother, more youthful-looking skin on your face, neck, and other areas.
Why Do My Eyes Always Look Red?
Red eyes can happen for lots of reasons. While redness is often a temporary issue, it can sometimes be a sign of a more serious underlying problem. Here’s what causes eye redness and how we can help.