I have lots of swelling after upper and lower blepharoplasty, is this normal healing? (Photos)

Question

I had upper and lower blepharoplasty two weeks ago. I am feeling very regretful about the eyes. It looks as though the shape of my eyes have changed and I am getting a lot of swelling under and at the tops of my cheeks, my nose also seems swollen. I was led to believe in a few days and no none would notice I had anything done, I would look "refreshed". I see my surgeon in two days and will address my concerns, I am just wondering if this healing process is normal? Thanks in advance.

Andrea Marando, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations for your recent procedure. I would not be concerned at this stage being you still in the early post-operative period. The degree of swelling varies from patient to patient, but it settles in time. On average 2 to 3 weeks are sufficient in the vast majority of cases. Your surgeon will be the best person to advice you, based on the pre-operative photos and the operative technique used. Make sure you share with your surgeon your concerns and listen to his/her advice.I am confident you will be fine. Andrea MarandoPlastic and Cosmetic Surgeon, Manchester, UK

James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and posting your photographs. Your eyelids are healing at the expected rate. It typically takes two weeks for bruising and selling not to be obvious.Good luck,

Adam Goodwin, MBBS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Swelling after any surgery is normal. Especially as 2 weeks. This swelling will take 6-12 weeks to start to dissipate and will inevitably alter the effectiveness of your result until lit resolves. Be patient and you will soon start to see why you had this surgery. Ice in a towel and anti-inflammatories will hjelp in the meantime. Hope that helps. Adam Goodwin

Armand V. Simone, MD · Answer

Unfortunately many patients are often mislead and not given the reality of the healing process and the time it takes for surgical areas to return to 'normal'.  The bottom line is that you are extremely early in the healing process which takes 8-12 months to heal. Looks like you're doing fine for the most part ...keep the faith ---and be patient -hopefully you will be happy with the final result.
Armand Simone, MD  FACS  New York,NY
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Darab Hormozi, MD · Answer

It is not unusual to have sweeling 2 weeks after eyelid surgery.  There is also a component of numbness at the lid margin which gives a bigger feeling of swelling and heaviness. It does take time for the numbness to wear off and the swelling to subside.  Talk to your surgeon but these are normal at 2 weeks.

I have lots of swelling after upper and lower blepharoplasty, is this normal healing? (Photos)

Answers (5)