Eyelid surgery is a relatively minor procedure, and if performed by a qualified cosmetic surgeon, it will involve minimal risk of post-operative complications. However, eyelid surgery will require the patient to follow certain precautions during the recovery. The patient should be prepared to follow the surgeon’s instructions for safer and faster recovery.
Dr. Paul McCluskey is a well-established plastic surgeon providing eyelid surgery and other surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures. At the time of initial consultation, Dr. McCluskey will educate the patient about various aspects of eyelid surgery, including the recovery process. He provides this procedure to patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations.
Recovery Process
The cosmetic surgeon will usually perform eyelid surgery as an outpatient procedure, but an overnight hospital stay may be required in exceptional cases. The right environment for immediate post-surgical phase will be determined according to the surgeon’s assessment and the patient’s needs. Most patients will be required to stay at home for about one week after the eyelid surgery.
After a week, most patients can go back to their workplace or resume their normal activities. However, full recovery after eyelid surgery can take several weeks. If traditional sutures have been used, the surgeon may remove them at the end of first week. During the early phase, the patient should give sufficient rest to the eyes. Redness and swelling in the first week will be more conspicuous, but will progressively subside.
Exertion to the eyes can occur due to watching TV, working on computer or reading during the early recovery period. Patients should avoid this because it can increase the blood flow to the eyes and delay full recovery. As the bruising and swelling gets resolved, the patient will be able to notice a rejuvenated upper face appearance.
The eyes will appear more youthful and alert as the full results of blepharoplasty are gradually established. If the patient was facing partial vision obstruction due to saggy upper lids, the problem will not be eliminated. Patients in Atlanta, GA and nearby areas have an opportunity to receive eyelid surgery from experienced plastic surgeon Dr. McCluskey.
Temporary Side Effects
Redness and swelling around the incision areas are a common initial side effect. The patient may feel soreness, itching and dryness in these areas, and the eyes may tear excessively. The surgeon may prescribe mild pain meds and a topical cream to keep the patient comfortable while these temporary side effects last.
Some patients may also experience temporary blurred vision, while some others may feel sensitivity to light. As long as the patient follows the surgeon’s post-operative instructions, these effects will resolve quickly.
Aftercare
In the first two to three days after the eyelid surgery, the patient may use cold compresses over the eyes. This will help to reduce the swelling. If the patient suffers from dry eyes, appropriate eye drops may be prescribed by the surgeon. The patient will be required to protect the eyes against sun and wind exposure for the first few weeks after the eyelid surgery.
For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit: