Eyelid Surgery Recovery

Eyelid surgery at Absolute Cosmetic is performed under light sedation (neurolept).  The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours, depending on whether upper, lower, or both eyelids are treated, and whether additional procedures—such as fat transfer or a thread lift—are included.

How You Might Feel Immediately After Surgery

After eyelid surgery, it’s normal to feel drowsy or groggy due to the light sedation used during the procedure. Most patients do not experience significant pain, but a feeling of tightness or pressure around the eyes is common in the first few hours. The area may feel slightly swollen, tender, or numb, and your vision might be a little blurry or watery—this is usually temporary and often related to the ointments applied during surgery.

You’ll need to rest with your head elevated and avoid any activity that strains the eyes. It’s also common to feel tired and emotionally sensitive in the hours following surgery.

While discomfort is generally mild and manageable, any severe pain, unusual swelling, or vision changes should be reported to our team immediately. You will be provided with clear post-operative instructions and Dr. Glenn Murray (MED0001196978) (MED0001196978)’s personal contact number for 24/7 support. This direct access ensures that any concerns can be addressed promptly by the doctor overseeing your care.

Post-Surgery Escort Requirement

For your safety, you must be collected by a responsible adult immediately after your eyelid surgery. This is a requirement at Absolute Cosmetic and is in line with best medical practice following sedation. You will not be permitted to leave the clinic alone, drive yourself, or take public transport after the procedure.

We also strongly recommend that this person stays with you overnight to assist with your initial recovery and monitor your wellbeing. If this arrangement cannot be made, your surgery may need to be rescheduled.

Day 1 Review

A post-operative review is scheduled the day after surgery, and is a key part of your recovery process. During this appointment, one of our experienced nurses or doctors will assess your initial healing, check for any early signs of swelling, bruising, or irritation, and ensure there are no concerns at the incision sites. Your dressing will be reviewed or adjusted if required, and you’ll be given the opportunity to ask questions about your recovery or appearance.

We will also go over your aftercare instructions in detail, including how to care for your eyes, what to avoid, how to apply any recommended topical treatments, and when to take any prescribed medications. You’ll be guided on how to sleep, bathe, and protect the area, and advised on what’s normal and when to seek further advice. This review ensures you’re supported and confident as you move into the first critical days of healing.

1 Week Review

Your Day 7 review is an important milestone in your recovery journey. At this appointment, your sutures are typically removed, and our team will carefully assess how your eyelids are healing. This visit allows us to check for any early signs of delayed healing, address concerns, and confirm that everything is progressing as expected.

Most patients begin to see a visible reduction in swelling and bruising by this stage, and the overall shape of the eyelids starts to settle. Depending on your comfort and appearance, you may feel ready to return to work, social activities, or low-impact daily routines after this point.

This review is also your opportunity to ask any questions—whether about skincare, returning to exercise, managing scars, or understanding what’s normal at this stage. It ensures we can provide you with personalised guidance, reinforce your aftercare plan, and help you feel supported as you transition from early healing into the next phase of recovery.

1 Month Review

A 1-month follow-up appointment is scheduled to monitor your longer-term healing and ensure you’re on track with recovery. By this stage, most swelling has subsided, and the early results of your eyelid surgery are becoming more visible. This review allows your practitioner to assess the position of the eyelids, the quality of the scars, and how the skin is settling overall.

We’ll take this time to evaluate your scar formation, skin texture, and overall outcome, and provide feedback on how things are progressing compared to your pre-operative photos. If suitable, we may discuss options for scar refinement, topical skincare, or laser resurfacing.

This is also a valuable opportunity to ask questions about your healing, long-term expectations, and what maintenance or treatments may benefit your skin moving forward. We also offer a 1-year review.

The first few weeks after blepharoplasty are essential for proper healing and the best long-term outcome. Below is a complete guide to help you take care of your eyes, reduce swelling, and avoid complications during this period.

What to Do During Recovery

Sleep with Your Head Elevated – Use two or more pillows or a wedge pillow to keep your head elevated at all times, including while sleeping. This helps reduce swelling and fluid retention around the eyes.

Apply Cool Compresses (First 48–72 Hours) – Gently apply a clean, cool compress around the eyes—not directly on the incision lines—to reduce swelling and soothe discomfort.

Take Prescribed Medications as Directed – Antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, or pain relief should be taken exactly as advised by your practitioner.

Attend All Follow-Up Appointments – Reviews at Day 1, Day 7, and around the 1-month mark are crucial. These allow your practitioner to monitor healing and advise on your personalised aftercare plan. Staying close to your treating doctor during the recovery period is especially important, as complications are best managed promptly by the practitioner who performed your surgery. For this reason, we strongly advise against undergoing surgery overseas, where consistent follow-up care and access to your original surgeon may not be available.

Protect Your Eyes from the Sun
Wear sunglasses outdoors, even on overcast days. Sun exposure can darken healing scars and affect long-term skin texture. Consider using a hat for extra coverage.

What to Avoid After Eyelid Surgery

No Rubbing or Touching the Eyes – The skin is delicate and healing—avoid rubbing, stretching, or applying pressure to the eye area.

Avoid Makeup and Skincare Around the Eyes (First 1–2 Weeks) – Only resume makeup or skincare treatments near the surgical area when approved by your practitioner, usually after suture removal.

No Strenuous Activity or Exercise – Avoid lifting, high-impact workouts, running, or bending for at least 2 weeks. This helps prevent increased blood pressure around the eyes, which can worsen bruising or swelling.

Avoid Swimming, Saunas, and Steam Rooms – Exposure to moisture, heat, or bacteria during early healing can irritate the eyes and increase the risk of infection.

Don’t Smoke or Vape – Smoking significantly impairs circulation and oxygenation of tissue, delaying healing and increasing the risk of complications. Avoid for at least 6 weeks post-op.

Avoid Alcohol – Alcohol may interfere with healing and increase the risk of swelling and bruising. It’s best to avoid it for the first 1–2 weeks.

Limit Screen Time – Rest your eyes as much as possible. Excessive use of phones, tablets, or computers can cause strain and slow the healing process.