Blepharoplasty Recovery: A Day-by-Day Guide

Blepharoplasty recovery happens in stages: swelling and bruising are normal in the first days, stitches are removed within a few days, and screen use becomes possible again gradually as the swelling fades. This article explains practically what to expect day by day — the general principles are the same whether it was upper or lower blepharoplasty. Every patient heals at a different pace, so the timelines below should be treated as a general guide, with exact dates always confirmed with the surgeon who performed the procedure. The extent of the surgery — a skin incision alone, or also fat correction — directly affects how long recovery takes.

The first 24-48 hours after surgery

In the first 24-48 hours, swelling, bruising and mild discomfort around the eyes are expected. During this period:

• Keeping the head elevated (with extra pillows) reduces swelling
• Apply a cold compress over gauze, not directly on the skin
• Rubbing or pressing on the eyes is strictly off-limits
• Use any drops or ointment the doctor prescribed exactly as instructed

Avoid lying with the head completely flat, as this makes it easier for fluid to collect around the eyes and increases swelling. In the first nights, sleeping on your back with the head elevated is considered the most comfortable position.

Swelling and bruising: what happens day by day

Swelling usually peaks on day 2-3 and starts gradually easing from that point on. Visible bruising fades noticeably within 1-2 weeks, but it can sometimes take up to 3-4 weeks to disappear completely, especially under the eyes. Faint swelling, especially noticeable in the morning after waking up, can take 3-6 months to fully settle — this is a normal part of the tissue reaching its final shape. Asymmetry, meaning one eye healing at a slightly different pace than the other, is common in the first weeks and evens out on its own. Sunglasses are a convenient way to hide bruising, and no cream or lotion should be applied to the bruised area unless approved by the doctor.

When are the stitches removed?

Stitches are usually removed within 5-7 days, depending on the type of surgery. In some cases the doctor uses dissolvable stitches, and no separate removal is needed. During this period, the stitch area should be kept dry and not placed directly under running water, and when washing your face it should be cleaned carefully with gentle movements. When washing your hair, tilting the head back helps keep water off the face. General principles for caring for the stitch area are covered in more detail in scar care.

When can I look at screens (phone, computer) again?

To prevent dry eyes, it's best to keep screen time as short as possible for the first few days, since less frequent blinking irritates swollen tissue more. As swelling eases, usually after 2-3 days, you can gradually return to phone and computer use with short breaks. Lowering screen brightness and using artificial tear drops (only as prescribed by the doctor) improves comfort. Reading a paper book is usually more comfortable than a screen during this period, since blinking stays more natural while reading on paper. Sitting in a well-lit room and keeping the screen slightly below eye level also reduces irritation.

Returning to makeup and contact lenses

Makeup around the eyes is not recommended until the stitches are removed and swelling has noticeably eased. Contact lenses are resumed a bit later because the eye surface is still sensitive, since the motion of inserting and removing a lens can affect freshly healing tissue.

• Eye makeup: wait until stitches are removed and swelling has eased (usually 1-2 weeks)
• Contact lenses: wait until the eye surface has fully healed (usually 2-3 weeks)
• Glasses are a comfortable alternative during this period
• Clean your lens case and makeup tools before using them again

Only the surgeon who performed the procedure can confirm the exact date for each step, based on how recovery is progressing.

When to see a doctor

• A sudden change in vision or persistent blurriness
• Inability to fully close the eye
• Swelling that increases instead of easing, worsening redness or pus
• High fever
• Stitches opening earlier than expected or ongoing bleeding
• Persistent eye pain, light sensitivity or a foreign-body sensation in the eye

If any of these signs appear, contact the surgeon who performed the procedure without delay — these are not part of normal healing.

Frequently asked questions

How many days after blepharoplasty can I return to work?

This depends on the nature of the job, but most people return to their work routine once swelling and bruising have noticeably eased, usually within 10-14 days. For people who work at a computer, this timing matches the guidance for gradually returning to screens. Those working remotely sometimes start earlier, gradually from home, while physically being back in the office is usually planned a bit later. For physically demanding jobs, this period may be a little longer.

Do I need to wear sunglasses?

Yes, wearing sunglasses outdoors is recommended to protect against UV rays and wind, especially in the first weeks when the eye area is more sensitive. It's also a convenient way to hide bruising that hasn't fully faded yet.

When can I return to exercise?

Light walking is usually fine after a few days, but for heavy physical exertion, bending and intense workouts, waiting at least 2-3 weeks is recommended, since raised blood pressure can worsen swelling. Swimming pools and sea water should also be postponed until the stitches have fully healed, as this can raise the risk of infection.

What can I do to speed up recovery?

Following the doctor's instructions, avoiding movements that irritate the eyes, staying away from smoking, and using cold compresses correctly all support healing. Getting enough sleep and staying hydrated also have a positive effect on overall recovery speed. You can read about the difference between upper and lower blepharoplasty in upper vs lower blepharoplasty, and general information about the procedure is on the blepharoplasty page. You can book a consultation through Dr Plasty.

This article is for information only and does not replace a medical consultation.