How long does recovery take after eyelid surgery?

Recovery after eyelid surgery goes smoothly for most people, but it does happen in stages. In the first days swelling and bruising are normal, after which things quickly look calmer and fresher.

How quickly you recover varies per person and per treatment. Even so, for most people the course is quite predictable, so you can prepare well for the period after the procedure.

Knowing what to expect makes recovery a lot calmer. You will not be alarmed by the swelling or bruising in the first days, because you know this is part of it and fades on its own in the weeks that follow.

In this guide we take you step by step through the recovery, from the first day to the final result. That way you know what to expect and what to look out for at each stage.

The first few days after the treatment

Straight after eyelid surgery the eyelids are swollen and bruising may develop. This is part of normal recovery and no cause for concern.

Cooling with a cold compress and keeping your head slightly raised help limit the swelling. Especially in the first two days, this makes a noticeable difference to how quickly the swelling goes down.

Deliberately take it easy in the first days and avoid exertion, bending over and heavy lifting. A slightly pulling or tight feeling around the eyelids is very common at this stage.

When do the stitches come out?

With upper eyelid surgery the stitches are usually removed after about one week. This is done at a follow-up appointment at the clinic.

The area may then still feel somewhat sensitive or tight, which is normal. Removing the stitches itself is usually not very painful and is quick.

After that the scar slowly fades in colour and becomes less and less visible. From then on you may usually also start caring for the area again carefully, following the advice.

Swelling and bruising: what to expect

The swelling and bruising are usually most noticeable in the first week and then visibly decrease. You see small improvements every day during this stage.

After about one to two weeks the bruising has largely gone for most people. You can limit swelling and bruising by following the aftercare advice carefully.

Mild, fluctuating swelling may persist for a while and then gradually fades. It is normal for things to look a little better at one moment than at another.

When can you work and exercise again?

Many people can return to work after about one week, depending on the type of work and how visible the recovery is. Office work is often possible sooner than physically demanding work.

If you work in a dusty or physically demanding environment, a little more time is sometimes wise. A lot of customer contact can also be a reason to wait a bit longer until the bruising has gone.

Sport, sauna and intensive exertion are usually discouraged for a few weeks to prevent swelling. Build up activities gradually and follow the advice you received with the treatment.

Is recovery different with lower eyelid surgery?

With onderooglidcorrectie recovery may feel a little longer, because the area is more sensitive and the skin there is thinner.

Bruising under the eye can stay visible a little longer than with the upper eyelid. The eyes may also feel somewhat swollen or tired in the first days.

Here too, the swelling gradually goes down and the result becomes visible step by step. Patience is important, because the lower eyelid in particular needs a little more time to settle completely.

What should you pay attention to during recovery?

Protect your eyelids from bright sunlight and wear sunglasses when you go outside if needed. Sun on a fresh scar can cause permanent discolouration.

Do not rub your eyes and keep the area clean according to the instructions. Also see the Treatment conditions for the arrangements around your treatment and recovery.

Preferably sleep on your back with your head slightly raised for the first few nights. Make-up on the scar can usually only be used again once the stitches have been removed.

When will you see the final result?

Most of the swelling is gone after a few weeks, but the final result continues to mature for longer. Over the weeks, your appearance becomes more and more natural.

A pleasing, natural look is usually visible after about two to three months. During that period, your eyes gradually look fresher and more open.

After that, the scar continues to fade quietly and becomes less and less noticeable over the course of the year. This is why you can only assess the full final result after a few months.

If you are in a hurry because a special occasion is coming up, allow plenty of time. Ideally, plan eyelid surgery a few months before an important event, so that the swelling has fully gone down.

Which tips speed up your recovery?

Rest in the first few days is the most important factor. Take it easy, do not plan demanding appointments and give your body room to recover. Fatigue and exertion can make the swelling worse.

Cooling helps limit swelling and bruising during the first two days. Also keep your head slightly raised, including while you sleep, so that fluid can drain from the area more easily.

Avoid bending over, heavy lifting, exercise and the sauna in the first weeks. Alcohol can also temporarily increase swelling and bruising, so be cautious with it in the first few days.

Follow the aftercare advice carefully and keep the area clean. Protect the scar from the sun. Together, these simple habits make a noticeable difference to how smoothly you recover.

Recovery and aftercare at Kliniek het Bolwerk

At Kliniek het Bolwerk you receive clear aftercare advice that suits your treatment and recovery. Good guidance after the procedure is just as important as the treatment itself.

During the consultation, Dr. David Jairath discusses what you can expect in each phase. This way you know in advance what your recovery is likely to look like.

You will also know what to look out for and when to get in touch. Would you like to know more about recovery or have your situation assessed? Book an appointment.