For the best possible outcome after your eyelid surgery, it is important to give your eyes the proper time to rest. Dr. Henderson will work with you to create the best possible recovery period plan, creating a timeline that will work with your schedule, help the healing process and give dramatic results.

Since each patient is unique, and heals at their own rate, each recovery process will have its own timing, as the body moves through the stages of healing. Though patients heal at varying speeds, they generally pass through the same stages, with similar effects at each stage, and knowing these stages can be very helpful when planning for your procedure.

The Recovery Period Immediately After Your Eyelid Surgery in Scottsdale/Phoenix

After your eyelid surgery, you may receive a lubricating ointment on your eyes, after which a cold compress will be applied. In some cases, it may be necessary for your eyes to be covered loosely with gauze for protection. You will want to keep your eyes rested and out of the sunlight for the first few days, though the specifics of your process will be determined by Dr. Henderson.

During these first few days, it may be helpful to keep your head elevated to minimize swelling. You may want to sleep sitting up, or at least with several pillows beneath your head to prevent unnecessary fluid retention. Most patients are discouraged from using hot or cold compresses during this time unless directed to do so by Dr. Henderson.  

Long-Term Scottsdale/Phoenix Eyelid Surgery Recovery

After a few days, your eyes should be returning to a fairly normal appearance, though you should be careful not to rush the healing process, as giving your body plenty of time to heal is important for a full recovery. Within several weeks, your final appearance should start to be clear, as the final traces of swelling diminish and the eyes assume their new shape. Incision lines, on the other hand, may take up to several years to fully fade into the natural lines of the eye. During this time, it is very important to keep the eyes protected from sun with sunglasses, hats and sunscreen as needed. 

Eyelid surgery is expected to have lifelong effects for most patients, though in some rare cases it may be necessary to have a touch-up or revisionary procedure. Though the results will be permanent, the natural aging process will continue to occur, and new signs of aging may develop at the surgical sites. Continued sun protection of the surgical sites is crucial for the best possible long-term results. Dr. Henderson will be able to suggest a number of additional ways to create the most profound results, and keep your eyes looking as youthful as possible for many years to come. 

For more information about getting eyelid surgery in Scottsdale/Phoenix, or to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Henderson, please visit the contact page.

Photo by Fredbouaine on Flickr.