3 weeks post upper blepharoplasty still have significant swelling, is this normal? (Photos)

Question

I am 46 yrs old and had upper blepharoplasty 3 weeks ago with a TCA Peel to face/under eyes. I have had a lot of swelling more so on my right side and still have swelling in upper cheek area that. I sleep upright, low sodium, I don’t drink/smoke. I’m concerned that the lids are still swollen and scars a little ropey not allowing lids to fully roll back into the creases. Any suggestions? My surgeon is a specialist in Oculofacial Plastic and Orbital Surgery and says things will settle down.

Brian S. Glatt, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It is still very early in your healing process.  Majority of patients are still swollen 3 weeks following this procedure.  It is common for swelling to last several weeks following surgery.  Judging from your photographs you are healing nicely.  Your eyelid scars will also undergo several phases before complete healing at a one year mark.  I encourage you to continue following all post-operative instructions and scheduled follow-up visits with your board certified surgeon.

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

Thank you for sharing your question and posting your photographs. It is normal to have swelling at this point in your recovery process. Some degree of swelling lasts 6 months. I hope this helps.Good luck,

Charles Nduka, MD · Answer

At 3 weeks, it is normal to still experience some degree of swelling. Usually, swelling may persist for 3 months and then start to subside as you heal. You may also experience bruising and some sharp pains every now and then.

Michael Hall, MD · Answer

It is normal to have residual swelling after upper blepharoplasty that can last for a few months.  Based on your pictures, you appear to be healing appropriately for three weeks.  The swelling and appearance of the scar will continue to fade.  I typically tell people 3 months is the average time frame when most of the swelling has resolved.  I would recommend you bring your concerns to your surgeon since they may recommend topical treatments in the interim to facilitate the healing process.  Best of luck.

Jeffrey Schiller, MD · Answer

From the photos you look like a normal healing process for three weeks. Please be patient. That appears to be on track.

David Cheung, MBChB, Bsc(Hons), FRCOphth · Answer

Hi there. Greetings from the UK. Yes that looks pretty normal and looks pretty good. I agree the medial corner of the left upper lid skin fold looks slightly less defined and higher but that often improves as any scar tissue becomes thinner allowing the fold to fold better. I would recommend bringing your concerns to your Oculoplastic surgeon. They may recommend using an antiscarring prepararation such as topical silicone gel. Best WishesDavid

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3 weeks post upper blepharoplasty still have significant swelling, is this normal? (Photos)

Answers (6)

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