Lower Blepharoplasty Recovery Guide

Immediately after surgery, it is normal to experience some swelling, bruising and tightness around the lower eyelids. The under-eye area may appear puffy and the skin can feel slightly tender during the first few days.

Some patients also experience:

• Mild watering of the eyes
• Temporary dryness or irritation
• Light sensitivity
• Slightly blurred vision caused by ointment or swelling

These symptoms are typically temporary and improve steadily as healing progresses.

Most patients return home on the same day as their procedure. We generally recommend arranging for someone to drive you home and assist during the first 24 hours while you rest and recover.

During the initial recovery period, it is important to:

• Rest with your head elevated
• Apply cold compresses as advised
• Avoid strenuous activity
• Follow all aftercare instructions provided by your surgeon

While swelling and bruising can initially appear quite noticeable, this is an expected part of the healing process and gradually improves over the following weeks.

Days 1-3

The first few days are usually when swelling and bruising are most noticeable.

Patients may experience:

• Puffiness beneath the eyes
• Bruising around the lower eyelids and upper cheeks
• Tightness when smiling or blinking
• Mild watering or dryness

Cold compresses, rest and sleeping with the head elevated can help minimise swelling during this period.

Most discomfort is generally mild and manageable with simple pain relief if required.

Days 4-7

By the end of the first week, many patients begin to notice early improvements.

Swelling often starts to settle and bruising may begin to fade, although the appearance can temporarily worsen before improving as bruising changes colour during the healing process.

The lower eyelids may still feel slightly tight or numb, which is a normal part of recovery.

Week 2

By the second week, many patients feel comfortable returning to work, social activities and other day-to-day routines.

Most bruising has significantly improved, although some residual swelling often remains.

At this stage, patients frequently notice that the appearance of under-eye bags has already improved considerably.

Weeks 4-6

The majority of swelling has usually settled by this point and the results become increasingly visible.

The lower eyelids continue to soften and settle, creating a smoother transition between the eyelid and cheek.

Many patients are enjoying a noticeably fresher and more rested appearance by this stage.

Months 2-6

Lower blepharoplasty healing continues subtly beneath the surface for several months.

Any remaining swelling gradually resolves and the final contour becomes increasingly refined.

Patience is important during this stage, as some of the most natural improvements develop gradually over time.

It is also normal for swelling to fluctuate during recovery. Many patients notice:

• More swelling first thing in the morning
• Variations throughout the day
• Temporary increases following physical activity

These fluctuations generally become less noticeable as healing progresses.

Sleeping with the head elevated and following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions can help support recovery.

The extent varies from person to person depending on factors such as:

• Individual healing response
• Skin type
• Surgical technique
• Medications and supplements

One feature that often surprises patients is that bruising may migrate downwards into the cheek area due to gravity. While this can appear alarming, it is usually a normal part of the healing process.

Most bruising improves significantly within the first two weeks, although subtle discolouration may occasionally take longer to resolve completely.

A feeling of tightness is also common, particularly when smiling or making facial expressions during the first few weeks.

Some patients may additionally experience:

• Dry eyes
• Mild irritation
• Temporary watering

Lubricating eye drops or artificial tears can often help improve comfort while healing continues.

Most of these symptoms improve naturally as recovery progresses.

Driving

Patients should avoid driving until they feel comfortable, their vision is clear and they can safely perform an emergency stop. Many patients feel ready to drive again within approximately one week, although this varies between individuals.

Returning to Work

Many patients return to desk-based or non-physical work within 7–14 days depending on bruising, swelling and personal confidence levels.

Exercise and Gym

Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, swimming and gym activity should generally be avoided for at least two to three weeks, as increased blood pressure can worsen swelling and bruising during the early stages of healing.

Wearing Make-Up

Most patients can usually resume wearing make-up around the eyes after approximately 10–14 days once healing has progressed appropriately. Your surgeon will advise when this is safe for you personally.

Contact Lenses

Contact lenses may need to be avoided temporarily while swelling and sensitivity settle.

Flying

Most patients can travel safely following recovery, although it is generally advisable to discuss specific travel plans with your surgeon before surgery.

There are several simple ways patients can help support a smooth recovery:

• Sleep with your head elevated during the first week
• Apply cold compresses as instructed
• Avoid rubbing or touching the eyes
• Wear sunglasses outdoors
• Avoid smoking where possible
• Follow all aftercare instructions carefully
• Attend follow-up appointments as advised

At Sapphire Eye Care, patients receive comprehensive aftercare guidance and ongoing support throughout the healing process.

Although lower blepharoplasty is generally very safe when performed by experienced surgeons, patients should contact their surgical team if they experience:

• Severe or worsening pain
• Sudden swelling
• Bleeding
• Significant vision changes
• Signs of infection
• Concerns about eyelid position

Most recovery symptoms are mild and expected, however prompt review is important if anything feels unusual or concerning.

Lower blepharoplasty involves delicate surgery around one of the most complex areas of the face.

Choosing a clinic with ophthalmic expertise is therefore extremely important.

At Sapphire Eye Care, patients benefit from:

• Consultant-led treatment pathways
• Specialist oculoplastic expertise
• Comprehensive aftercare support
• A strong understanding of both functional and cosmetic outcomes

Our consultants understand not only the appearance of the eyelids, but also the importance of preserving eye comfort, blink function and ocular health throughout recovery.