As we age, we often grow to become more comfortable in the way we look.

And although we find this inner-confidence to feel happy in the skin we’re in, whilst time goes by, we then have to deal with other changes to our appearance; lines and wrinkles.

For some, these lines and wrinkles can make people look older than they look, and certainly how they feel. So it has become a popular occurrence for them to turn to cosmetic surgery to, in some way, reverse the signs of ageing.

For most people, the area of the face that gives the most obvious tell-tale signs of ageing are the eyes.

The skin around the eye area is prone to losing its elasticity quicker than other areas of the face, and this can cause this part of the face to sag.

This gives off the look of heavy eye bags, which can make people look older than they are.

For those who experience heavy eye bags, and are uncomfortable with the way they look, or for those whose eye bags impact their vision, they can look to undergo eyelid surgery.

Eyelid surgery, otherwise known as an ‘eye lift’ or ‘blepharoplasty’, is now one of the most common cosmetic surgeries worldwide.

The cosmetic procedure consists of removing the excess skin and fat deposits from the eyelids to lift the eye area, achieving a natural, youthful look.

The procedure is very effective, helping to dramatically improve the look of the eye area.

But, of course, as with all surgery, the treatment does come with some side effects.

What can I expect during eyelid surgery recovery?

For those who undergo eyelid surgery, the most common side effect is swelling around the eye area.

Alongside this, the affected area may become bruised or swollen immediately after the surgery, which will, of course, be of some discomfort to the patient as they recover.

If you undergo the procedure, patients often notice the eyelid swelling will be worse just after you wake up, as the lack of movement as you sleep will increase the level of swelling.

Although this may cause some discomfort, it will become less noticeable throughout the day as you move around and sit up straight.

Patients often can experience swelling around the cheeks and jawline after eyelid surgery, and this can last for at least a few weeks after surgery.

In most cases, this improves after 2-3 weeks post-operation.

How should I look after myself after eyelid surgery?

In most cases, people who undergo eyelid surgery will experience at least one of these side effects, but there are ways in which you can benefit the recovery process.

When the procedure is complete, your surgeon will give you a list of things you should follow to aid in your recovery.

These include:

Wearing tinted sunglasses

By ensuring to cover your eyes with tinted sunglasses, you can reduce your exposure to sunlight.

Any form of eye operation can make you sensitive to light, so when you leave the hospital it is best to equip yourself with the correct eyewear.

It is also important to ensure you stay away from contact lenses for at least two weeks after your surgery, as this could cause unnecessary trauma to the eye area during the healing process.

Eat soft foods

The first few days after surgery, your doctor will recommend you only eat soft foods, such as yoghurt, soft fruit, well-cooked vegetables and pasta.

As you chew, this action moves all parts of your face, which will cause the eye area to be impacted too. This can, of course, be quite painful for the patient, so soft foods will help to avoid this as much as possible.

Avoid strenuous exercise

Your doctor will also be sure to recommend you avoid any strenuous exercise, including heavy lifting and rigorous exercise.

This is typically the norm after most surgical procedures.

Take plenty of rest

Just like any surgery, it’s important to take plenty of rest and not rush back into a normal routine.

Rest will help your body to heal, so it’s important to listen to your body, and realise when you’ve had enough for the day.

As you rest and relax, it is also recommended that you sleep with your head raised for at least two weeks.

This will help to prevent swelling, and typically your surgeon or doctor will recommend how long you will personally need to do this for.

Visit your doctor for check-ups

It’s also important that you visit your doctor for all the necessary check-ups, to ensure you’re on the road to recovery.

Most people will be able to go back to work, at their doctor’s discretion, between 10-14 days post-op, and this will be discussed as part of your check-up.

The swelling will take at least a few months to improve. But you will still be capable of working, unless strenuous lifting or activity is needed for your job, after this period has gone by.

With eyelid surgery being one of the most common cosmetic surgeries in the world, when undergoing the procedure, you can be confident that when working with a reputable surgeon they will be well-versed in the procedure.

If you’re considering eyelid surgery and would like more information on how to arrange a consultation, the team here at MedicoTrips can help you.

If you’d like to discuss your options, the MedicoTrips team can be contacted on +44 (0) 121 288 4552.