Red/Purple Under Eyes - Normal After Upper Bleph?

Yes upper eyelid surgery can cause lower eyelid bruising.  Totally normal.  Do not over ice the eyelids to punish the bruise.  It will not make a bit of difference and you can harm your skin by over icing.  Try to be patient.  Follow the recommendations of your surgeons.  We are not your surgeons!  Please do not be tempted to order anything from the internet to make the bruise go away any time sooner.  These products are ineffective. 

It is perfectly normal for patients to have some bruising and swelling above and below the eyes after upper eyelid surgery (upper blepharoplasty). You should follow the directions of your surgeon regarding ice and other measures to prevent or reduce bruising and swelling. 

In my practice, I advise patients to ice for 15 minutes every hour (while awake) for the first three days. For the first two weeks, I ask them to sleep on three or four pillows to keep the head elevated. Supplements such as arnica montana and bromelain can also help to reduce bruising. They are also advised to avoid heavy lifting, straining, and vigorous exercise for two weeks. 

As for recovery time, patients are up and around the day after surgery and able to perform most normal activities within 1 - 3 days. Pain medication is taken for around 3 days on average and many patients begin working from home 3 to 4 days after surgery. Stitches are removed on day 5 or 6. In general, patients look good enough to return to work or social activities approximately 10 days after surgery, once the bruising has resolved. 

Best,

Dr. Mehta

Without pictures, it is impossible to give you specific advice.  However, two days after surgery, some swelling and bruising is expected.  Some patients worse that others and other patients better than some.  It sounds like you are doing everything right.  The swelling and bruising will go away quickly but at just two days post-op there is not need to worry.  If you do have any concerns, then you should contact your surgeons office and schedule a sooner follow up visit.

 

Good Luck.