Brusing and Swelling After Blepharoplasty and Mid-Face Lift

Question

Three and 1/2 weeks ago, I had a lower Blepharoplasty and a mid-face lift. I am still swollen and bruised under my eyes. Why is it taking so long to go away? When will it go away? Also I just read about Arnica, so I just now started taking it with Bromelain. Will this help with my bruising and swelling since I did not start it right away?

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

It's not unusual for patients to experience swelling and bruising following combination facelift and blepharoplasty surgery. These problems are often related to the extent of the surgical dissection. Both bruising and swelling have usually resolved within two to three weeks of surgery, but occasionally last for longer periods of time.It's difficult to make a specific recommendation without pictures or a physical examination. In general terms, bruising and swelling can be minimized by avoiding strenuous activity, elevating the head, ice compresses and low salt diets. Although both Arnica and Bromelain are popular, there's no scientific data to support their use.It's important for patients who have severe bruising and swelling to maintain close contact with their plastic surgeon. Your surgeon should be able to reassure you and minimize your anxiety.

Young R. Cho, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question for sharing your concerns with us. Swelling and bruising in the tissues will return to normal as time passes by. Between the first and second week, much of your swelling and bruising will dissipate, but in your case, it may take longer as you also had a mid face lift.  Lymphatic massage maybe an option to help clear the swelling and firmness at a faster pace. I would make sure that you continue to follow up with your plastic surgeon during this period of time.

Andrew Miller, MD · Answer

When a cheeklift is performed, the dissection is carried through several tissue planes to right on top of the bone. This affects the usual drainage of the face which in turn prolongs the swelling. It will certainly continue to improve with time, but arnica will probably not help at this point.

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

Everyone is different, so it is difficult to give you an accurate estimation of how long swelling and bruising takes to go away.  However, after midface lift, you should expect an extended time for swelling and possibly bruising.   Taking the Arnica Montana may help and it won't hurt - so, you might as well do it.  Good luck with your recovery.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

Bruising is expected after eyelid and facial surgery and it usually resolves after 7 to 10 days.  Persistent bruising and discoloration of the soft tissues can occur.  There is really no magic cure as this will ultimately resolve on its own.  Occasionally alternating warm and cool compresses can help as well as on over the counter herbal product, Bromelean.  The usual antibruising dose is 500 mg twice a day between meals.

Brusing and Swelling After Blepharoplasty and Mid-Face Lift

Answers (10)

Answer: Everyone is different, but it may take time for the swelling to resolve

Answer: Everyone is different, but it may take time for the swelling to resolve

Answer: Facial bruising after surgery

Answer: Facial bruising after surgery

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Brusing and Swelling After Blepharoplasty and Mid-Face Lift

Answers (10)

Answer: Everyone is different, but it may take time for the swelling to resolve

Answer: Everyone is different, but it may take time for the swelling to resolve

Answer: Facial bruising after surgery

Answer: Facial bruising after surgery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.