Eyelid surgery recovery

Immediate Aftercare

Pain relief with paracetamol is usually sufficient after the procedure. We advise against driving on the day of the surgery and as long as your vision is impaired. Immediately after the procedure, cooling is important to reduce swelling and bruising. Use frozen peas in a bag with a gauze layer in between, especially during the first 24 hours. By placing the frozen peas in sandwich bags and tying them together, you can create a sort of "cooling mask." Don’t forget to place a gauze layer between the “cooling mask” and your skin.

Aftercare during the first few days

During the first few days after the eyelid correction, sleep with an extra pillow to keep your head elevated. Avoid sleeping on your stomach and strenuous activities such as lifting, bending, or straining. For mild pain, you may take aspirin-containing medication.

After 24 hours, you may gently rinse your eyes in the shower and pat them dry without rubbing. Any crusted eyelids can be cleaned with a damp cotton swab.

Aftercare for stitches and scars

The ends of the stitches should not be cut on your own. They will be removed by one of our doctors after one week. Once the stitches are removed and the scabs have disappeared, you may start using the ointment (scar cream). This scar cream can be applied gently on and around the eyes. Our advice is to dab softly and avoid rubbing. You will receive this scar cream from us during your first follow-up appointment.

We advise you not to expose the scars to UV sunlight and/or tanning beds for 3 to 6 months after the procedure.

Blurred vision

It is not uncommon to experience temporary blurred vision after an eyelid correction. This can be caused by swelling around the eyes, which affects the clarity of your vision. Blurred vision usually lasts a few days and will resolve on its own. It is important to be patient and avoid straining your eyes.

Tip: If the blurred vision persists for more than a week or is accompanied by other symptoms, contact your doctor.

Swollen eyes

Swollen eyes are a common occurrence after eyelid surgery. The swelling is usually most pronounced during the first 48 hours and will gradually decrease. It is important to get plenty of rest and take good care of your eyes in the first few days to minimize the swelling.

What you can do:

• Cold compresses can help reduce swelling, especially during the first 48 hours.
• Keeping your head elevated while sleeping also helps to reduce swelling.

Eyelid thickening and swelling

After an eyelid correction, your eyelids may temporarily feel thicker or appear swollen. This is due to the skin and tissues adjusting to the changes made during the procedure. This thickening is usually temporary and will decrease as your recovery progresses.

Tip: If the thickening persists longer than expected or is accompanied by pain or other symptoms, contact your doctor for advice.

Bruising

Bruising is common after an eyelid correction, particularly around the eyes. These bruises are usually harmless and will disappear on their own within two to three weeks, though they may be most noticeable in the first few days after the procedure.

What you can do:

• Use cold compresses to reduce the severity of the bruising.
• Avoid physical activities that can increase blood circulation, such as intense exercise or heavy household chores.

Dry eyes

After an eyelid correction, the eyes may temporarily feel drier. This is a common side effect during the recovery period, especially in the first few weeks after the procedure. Dry eyes occur because tear production is temporarily reduced or because the eyelids do not fully close when blinking or sleeping.

What can you do?

• Use preservative-free eye drops (available at pharmacies or drugstores).
• Apply an eye gel or ointment at night to prevent dryness during sleep.
• Avoid air conditioning and excessive screen time.
• Protect your eyes outdoors with sunglasses against wind and sun.