I cannot afford to miss more than 2 weeks of work when recovering from blepharoplasty procedure. Can a plastic surgeon describe the post-op recovery typical for patients.
Recovery usually takes 10 days. During that time patients notice swelling and bruising. Once the initial 10 days have passed, patients may return to normal activities. In this initial period, prescription prednisone can help reduce swelling. I also find Arnica-Montana effective in minimizing early post operative bruising. The final results of surgery though, may take up to three months to manifest.
I generally do some sort of Blepharoplasty or Ptosis repair every working day. I agree, of course, with my colleagues. Recovery time varies from patient to patient. Some of your recovery time is in your control, while other factors are not. With the definition of "recovery" meaning that there are no noticeable incision marks, swelling or bruising to the outward public, eye surgery in my office has a recovery rate generally of 7-10 days. I would estimate that this statement holds true for about 80% of my patients. The remaining 20% will need more time as each of us heal at our own rate. On the other hand, I have seen patients who have come in on a 5 day follow-up that show no signs of bruising or swelling.
Patients can certainly go back to work in 3 days, but if the goal of the patient is to be discreet, the 7-10 day rule generally holds up as long as the patient has been thorough in adhering to recovery protocol. This includes icing, and staying away from various medications and supplements before and immediately after surgery- ie: aspirin, vitamin E, fish oil etc.
It is, as my colleagues have pointed out, important that a patient refrain from strenuous activity during recovery as well. On the other hand, light activity is certainly encouraged. In general, if you're moving, you're healing with regard to such procedures.
Smokers beware. Healing time is significantly longer for those who smoke regularly and risk a higher rate of complications. I insist that my patients stop for at least 2 weeks before and after surgery if at all possible.
Lastly, I would mention a very real yet immeasurable factor in healing - your attitude. it is so apparent in my office, that those patients with a positive and healthy outlook on life simply heal faster! Stress and worry are intangible factors, but they do make a marked difference. This, of course, is nothing I can teach a patient. What I can do and feel it is my obligation is to make sure that the patient is nothing but comfortable and informed regarding an upcoming procedure. Moreover, that I am available to see and or talk to a patient regarding any concerns after surgery.
Recovery time after eye lid surgery depends on a number of factors.
The range for recovery based on the above variables can range from 3 to 14 days. Most patients can return to work after 7 days with camouflage makeup and return to light exercise by 14 days.
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