Can I Go Back to Work 4 Days After an Asian Upper Eyelid Surgery?

Morning Dai,

 

Typically you can return to work within 3 to 4 days.  HOWEVER, it is important to understand that whether you're having suture technique, partial incision, or full incision you will most likely still have some signs that you have had surgery such as swelling, occasionally bruising, or even visible sutures.  Some patients do experience some fatigue of their eyes after surgery that first week when reading or working at computer or even some dry eyes.  Best of luck

 

Chase Lay, MD

 

Dear dai1003,

Asian eyelid surgery (ie. Asian blepharoplasty, or Asian double eyelid procedure) creates a crease in the upper eyelid that enhances the overall shape and appearance of the eyes.

There are several techniques for performing Asian eyelid surgery, including non-incision, partial incision, and full incision methods. The non-incision and partial incision methods are associated with a quicker recovery, but I believe that they lead to shorter lasting and less natural appearing folds. For these reasons, I recommend a full incision technique to most patients.

After Asian eyelid surgery, there is bruising and swelling. Most of the bruising and swelling disappears over the course of a few weeks, although some patients may recover more quickly and others more slowly. The upper eyelid crease begins very high and takes a few months to settle down and look natural. Most patients return to work in 1-2 weeks. Returning to work earlier (eg. four days) is certainly possible if you are able to tolerate having heavy, swollen eyelids and possibly sutures in place. Wearing eyeglasses can help disguise your eyes until your recovery is complete.

Asian eyelid surgery is a very delicate procedure and requires special knowledge and expertise. Please see an experienced Board Certified surgeon for an evaluation.

Warmest wishes,

Larry Fan, MD