San Antonio Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery is the third most popular plastic surgery procedure in the United States, according to statistics compiled by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Upper and lower blepharoplasty offers many benefits; surgery of the upper lids involves the removal of excess skin, while surgery of the lower lids involves the redistribution of fat and the removal of excess fat, muscle, and skin. The procedure is safe and effective. However, eyelid surgery does result in some temporary side effects and a short recovery period for our San Antonio plastic surgery patients.

The Day of Surgery

Most eyelid surgery procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that you will be able to return home after surgery. Patients should have a friend or family member available to pick them up after surgery and help them get settled at home. We recommend that patients stay in bed and rest when they get home from surgery.

Temporary Side Effects

Patients may experience the following side effects immediately following surgery and for up to two weeks after surgery.

• Redness
• Swelling
• Pain
• Skin dryness
• Tightness of the skin
• Excessive tearing
• Slightly blurry vision
• Sensitivity to light

These symptoms can be alleviated with use of pain medication, ointment on the incisions, cold compresses, eye drops, daily naps, dark sunglasses, and by keeping the head elevated.

What to Avoid after Surgery

After patients undergo eyelid surgery, there are certain activities that they should avoid; any action that will dry out the eyes should be avoided for about a week, including:

• Watching TV
• Reading
• Computer use
• Wearing contact lenses

Actions that increase blood flow to the eyes should be avoided for three to four weeks after surgery, including:

• Crying
• Sports
• Bending over
• Lifting heavy objects

Our San Antonio eyelid surgery patients begin to notice an improved, rejuvenated appearance within two or three weeks of surgery. Following our post-surgical instructions help to ensure that your recovery is as quick and comfortable as possible. If you are interested in undergoing eyelid surgery, contact the practice of Constance Barone, MD, today.