Introduction
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is one of the most effective ways to restore a youthful, refreshed look to the eyes. But for many patients, the decision to move forward comes with a big question: “What will recovery be like?”
At the EyeFACE Institute in Toronto, we believe recovery is just as important as the procedure itself. Our oculoplastic surgeons and care team provide detailed guidance so patients know what to expect every step of the way.
This guide walks you through the week-by-week recovery process after eyelid surgery, from the first 24 hours to the weeks that follow. While every patient heals differently, this timeline reflects what most experience during their journey.
The First 24–48 Hours: Rest and Ice
The first two days after surgery are all about rest and swelling control.
- Swelling and bruising: Most patients notice puffiness around the eyes immediately after surgery. This is normal and expected.
- Vision: Blurred or watery vision can occur due to swelling or ointments.
- Pain level: Usually mild; most describe it as soreness or tightness rather than sharp pain.
- Care routine: Cold compresses and keeping your head elevated (even while sleeping) help reduce swelling.
At EyeFACE Institute, patients receive clear aftercare instructions before leaving the clinic, including when to use compresses, how to clean the area, and when to apply prescribed ointments.
Week 1: Bruising Peaks, Then Begins to Fade
The first week is often the most visible stage of recovery.
- Day 3–4: Swelling and bruising typically reach their peak.
- Day 5–7: Both gradually start to fade. Stitches (if used) are usually removed by the end of the week.
- Comfort: Many patients feel tightness in the eyelids. Mild dryness or tearing is also common.
- Daily activities: Light walking is fine, but avoid strenuous exercise, bending, or lifting.
- Social visibility: Most patients still prefer staying home this week, as bruising is noticeable.
Patient tip: Sunglasses are your best friend when stepping outside — they protect healing eyelids from sunlight and help conceal bruising.
Week 2: Visible Improvement
By the second week, most patients notice a significant change.
- Swelling: Reduced by about 50% compared to Week 1.
- Bruising: Fades to lighter shades of yellow or green.
- Stitches: If dissolvable, they’ll continue to fade away.
- Comfort: Tightness lessens, but mild sensitivity around the eyelids may remain.
- Work/social life: Many patients feel comfortable returning to work (especially desk jobs) by the end of Week 2, often with the help of concealer makeup.
Patients at EyeFACE Institute often describe Week 2 as the turning point — when they feel “presentable” again.
Week 3: Returning to Normal Routines
By the third week, your recovery becomes less noticeable to others.
- Appearance: Most bruising is gone, and swelling continues to subside.
- Activity level: Light exercise can usually be resumed, though high-impact activities should still be avoided.
- Makeup: At this point, many patients can comfortably apply eye makeup again (after approval from their surgeon).
- Vision and comfort: Eyes feel much less tight or heavy, and daily routines (like driving or reading) feel normal.
Patient tip: Keep using sunscreen around the eyes — even small amounts of UV exposure can affect scar healing.
Week 4: Subtle Refinement
At one month, most patients feel “back to normal,” though subtle healing continues.
- Swelling: About 80–90% resolved. Only you (and your surgeon) may notice the remaining puffiness.
- Scars: Incision lines start blending into the natural eyelid crease.
- Energy levels: Most people are fully back to their usual routines, including moderate workouts.
- Results: The eyes look brighter, more open, and refreshed, though final results are still developing.
Weeks 6–8: Confidence Returns
Around the six-to-eight-week mark, patients see their true results emerge.
- Appearance: Eyes look rejuvenated, and scars are minimal.
- Swelling: Nearly gone, though a trace may linger in the mornings.
- Social life: Patients often feel completely confident attending events, photoshoots, or travel by this point.
- Exercise: Full physical activity can typically be resumed.
At EyeFACE Institute, this is when patients often come for follow-up photos, comparing their before-and-after transformation.
3–6 Months: Final Results
Healing is essentially complete by the three-to-six-month mark.
- Incisions: Continue to fade until they are almost invisible.
- Swelling: Gone entirely.
- Results: Patients enjoy natural, youthful-looking eyes without the heaviness, bags, or drooping they once had.
- Longevity: Eyelid surgery results often last 10–15 years, depending on genetics, lifestyle, and skincare.
What’s Normal vs. When to Call Your Surgeon
During recovery, it’s normal to experience:
- Swelling and bruising.
- Mild discomfort or tightness.
- Temporary blurred vision.
However, you should contact your surgeon if you notice:
- Severe pain that doesn’t improve with medication.
- Sudden vision changes (like double vision or loss of sight).
- Excessive bleeding or pus from incisions.
- Signs of infection (fever, severe redness, spreading swelling).
At EyeFACE Institute, patients are encouraged to reach out anytime with concerns. Direct post-op care is part of our commitment to safe, smooth recoveries.
Recovery Tips for the Best Results
- Sleep elevated for the first week.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol — both slow healing.
- Follow your medication schedule exactly.
- Be gentle with skincare around the eyes.
- Use sunglasses outdoors to protect delicate healing skin.
Why Recovery Support Matters at EyeFACE Institute
Choosing the right surgeon isn’t just about surgical skill — it’s about the aftercare process.
At EyeFACE Institute in Toronto:
- Patients receive a custom recovery plan tailored to their procedure.
- Follow-ups ensure healing is on track.
- The team provides around-the-clock support for concerns.
- Results are monitored closely to achieve the most natural outcome possible.
Call to Action
Thinking about eyelid surgery but wondering what recovery will be like?
At EyeFACE Institute Toronto, our specialists guide you through every step — from consultation to final results — with safety, comfort, and natural outcomes as our top priorities.
- Visit us at our Toronto clinic
- Book Consultation
- Call to schedule your consultation: (647) 351-6501
