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Post-Operative Care Following Eyelid Reduction (Blepharoplasty) at MACS Clinic

Posted on: 5 Aug 2025

Undergoing eyelid reduction, also known as blepharoplasty, is a recognised effective way to improve your appearance by removing excess skin and fat from the upper or lower eyelids. Proper post-operative care is essential to optimise your healing.

Here is a comprehensive guide to your post-operative care following eyelid reduction surgery at MACS Clinic:

💠 1. Managing Swelling, Bruising & Discoloration

Swelling and bruising are normal after blepharoplasty and typically peak within the first few days. To minimise swelling, bruising, and reducing chance of bleeding, you are advised to:

Rest in a semi-sitting position (approximately 45 degrees) for the first 3 to 5 days
Use cold compresses or specialised ice packs to the eye area regularly during the first 48 hours
Avoid strenuous activities which increases blood pressure for first one week after the procedure.

MACS Clinic advises specially designed ice packs with a clever feature — they have an opening in the centre of the ice pack covering the eye that allows you to see while wearing them. This means you can read, watch TV, and even wear your spectacles (for both reading and distance vision) during your recovery. These innovative ice packs help you return to daily activities earlier, increasing your comfort and reducing recovery-related frustration.

💠 2. Wound Care & Hygiene

Dissolvable stitches are used during the procedure, so in most cases, stitch removal is not required
You are encouraged to shower from Day 1, as there are no dressings covering the suture lines
It is advised to apply an antimicrobial spray or antibiotic ointment gently along the suture line to promote healing and prevent infection

💠 3. Medications

You will be prescribed a broad-spectrum antibiotic to be taken for 5 to 6 days as a preventative measure (prophylaxis) to minimise chances of infection
Pain is usually minimal, and most patients do not require painkillers
- If necessary, Paracetamol or Co-dydramol may be taken to ease any discomfort

💠 4. Lifestyle Considerations

Smoking is strictly discouraged — it can significantly impair healing.

You should stop smoking at least 15 days prior to surgery and continue to avoid smoking until your eyelids have fully recovered.

💠 5. Follow-Up Appointments

To ensure your recovery is progressing well, we schedule two key follow-up appointments:

1 week after surgery – to monitor early healing
6 weeks after surgery – to assess the result and address any concerns

Mr. Shailesh Vadodaria, our senior consultant plastic surgeon is always available for video follow-up appointments, allowing flexibility and comfort during your recovery journey.

🔹 11. Monitor for Signs of Infection or Complications

Watch for:

Increasing redness, warmth, or swelling after the first few days
Pus-like discharge from incision lines
Fever or chills
Any visual disturbances

👉 If you experience any of the above, contact MACS Clinic immediately for further evaluation.

🔹 12. Scar Management (if needed)

In most cases, blepharoplasty scars are nearly invisible after healing.
If recommended by your surgeon, you may begin using silicone gel or scar-reducing creams after 3–4 weeks post-surgery.

🔹 13. Stay Hydrated & Nourished

Eat a nutritious, low-sodium diet to support healing and reduce fluid retention.
Stay well-hydrated, but avoid alcohol during the early recovery phase.

🔹 14. Mental & Emotional Wellbeing

Swelling, bruising, and asymmetry are normal early in the healing process — don’t panic.
Allow yourself time to heal and adjust emotionally. Your final results typically become visible by 6 to 12 weeks post-op.

✅ Final Thoughts

Following these post-operative instructions closely will significantly improve your comfort, enhance healing, and ensure you achieve good outcome from your eyelid reduction procedure.

For further information or to book your consultation, please contact us at MACS Clinic.