Swelling After Lower Blepharoplasty

Question

I recently had a bilateral lower blepharoplasty done 4 1/2 weeks ago. Swelling had resolved after a week or so, but over the past few days both, lids are getting puffy again. How long does swelling take to completely reslove? Do I need to go back to my surgeon as early as possible?

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

The swelling that you have experienced following your blepharoplasty is normal. I advise my patients that after surgery they will most likely experience some noticeable swelling that will subside within two to six weeks. Patients should know some minor swelling can remain for as long as six months, and their lid contours may continue to change. Final results may not be seen until the six month mark. There are several exercises that you can do to assist with healing as well. You may also want to massage the lids. I suggest discussing your concerns with your surgeon. Best of luck, Dr. Clevens

Amir Nakhdjevani, MBBS, MRCS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Lower Blepharoplasty unfortunately can cause a fair bit of swelling in patients, which does come and go.  I always advice my patients that any residual swelling should have gone after 3 months post op.  If you do have any concerns, please contact your plastic surgeon for a follow up, they have access and give you their advice.All The Best

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

It is common to see post operative swelling which seems to fluctuate for many months. Patients often note how the swelling is worse at different times of the day. This is nothing to be alarmed about. Usually it takes 6-12 months for the eyelids to completely heal. If there is any pain associated with the swelling then follow up in office with your surgeon.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Maximum swelling is usually at about 3-5 days and goes away over a few months. You should sleep with your head elevated and cut back on salt to help the swelling.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Swelling from lower lid surgery can wax and wane over the first month or so.  Exercise or sleeping on your stomach will cause temporary swelling but after a while, this temporary swelling will no longer occur.  It can take a month or so.

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

Eyelid swelling is extremely common following
blepharoplasty. Following surgery, the majority of the swelling has disappeared
in about a week, but small amounts may persist for up to a month. The swelling
is typically worse in the morning, after lying down all night. It tends to
improve during the day when the patient is in upright position.

It
appears that your swelling is probably normal and would be anticipated after
this type of procedure. Elevating your head at night might accelerate your
recovery. If the swelling fails to improve, make sure you discuss the issue
with your plastic surgeon.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Swelling is a normal component of the healing process. Gross and obvious swelling usually dissapates in a week or so. More subtle swelling, that can wax and wane, might take a good deal longer, even months.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

Eyelid swelling after Blepharoplasty is common and can have a variety of causes.
There is no immediate need to return to your physcian unless it is associated with infection, redness, drainage, fever, pain or visual disturbances.
Anticipate time for the healing process to subside which is usually a minimum of 3-4 months after surgery.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Even though it has only been four-and-a-half weeks since your blepharoplasty, the eyelids can remain puffy for two months after the surgery.  Hormones, altitude, air pressure changes, and salt intake can worsen this puffiness.  After two to three months, most of this should resolve.  A low-salt diet will help keep puffiness to a minimum as well. For many examples of a lower blepharoplasty, please see  the link below to our eyelid surgery photo gallery

Scott E. Kasden, MD, FACS · Answer

This doesn't sound worrisome, but your doctor can help this resolve sooner. I would recommend that you keep your head elevated when you sleep, and avoid raising your blood pressure or pulse. Allergy season may be starting where you are, so this may be kicking in.

Swelling After Lower Blepharoplasty

Answers (17)

More Eyelid Surgery Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (17)

More Eyelid Surgery Questions

Bloodshot Eyes After Blepharoplasty Surgery

Red, Dry Eyes After Blepharoplasty and CO2 Laser

Stitches Came off 2 Days After Blepharoplasty

Wearing Makeup After Blepharoplasty or Eyelid Surgery

Eye Bags and Swelling 8 Months Post-Blepharoplasty

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS