For many people, the mere mention of surgery is enough to bring thoughts of pain and discomfort to mind. That’s not surprising considering that most medical and cosmetic surgeries too considerably longer to perform, required the use of archaic techniques and practices and involved long and painful recoveries.
Thankfully, that’s no longer the case. Anyone tired of being misunderstood, mistreated, or looking older than they are in spirit because of baggy, droopy, heavy eyelids should consider eyelid surgery at our clinic. Is it painful? No, it’s not. Here’s why:
The skin on the eyelids is the thinnest on the body and it’s full of sensitive nerve endings. Though the sound of surgery on this area may seem frightening, Dr. Hershcovitch takes exceptional precautions to ensure each eyelid surgery patient has a painless and comfortable experience, from start to finish.
How Is Pain Prevented During Eyelid Surgery?
Patients may receive general anesthesia which puts them to sleep or a local anesthetic that allows them to stay awake during their procedures. The type of pain prevention/sedation used is dependent on the procedure type and the surgeon’s recommendations. The procedure is minimally invasive, so there are no big or deep incisions. The surgeon uses tiny, superficial incisions to further minimize the risk of any pain, bruising, discoloration, or pain during and after the procedure.
Many same-day blepharoplasty procedures take two hours or less to complete. Procedures involving extensive work or multiple procedures may take longer and generally require the use of general anesthesia.
Is Blepharoplasty Recovery Painful?
The procedure itself is not painful. Overall postoperative eyelid surgery discomfort tends to peak in some patients within the first 36 hours before gradually residing. Though eyelid surgery is minimally invasive, it, just like any surgery is a stressful event for the body to go through. The following symptoms are also common during recovery and often resolve within the first two weeks.
- Sensitivity to light
- Eye puffiness
- Bruising around the eyes
- Eye fatigue
- Blurry or double vision
- Eyesight spots or floaters
- Eye Itchiness
Certain over-the-counter anti-inflammatories and pain relievers are effective at reducing pain and inflammation but should be avoided without proper guidance and clearance from Dr. Herschcovitch. Also, the removal of eyelid surgery stitches is relatively painless. Most patients describe it as a slight pulling or tugging on their eyes. Patients who undergo minor eyelid revisions may receive dissolvable sutures instead.
Preventing Discomfort After Eyelid Surgery
Cold or warm compresses are also effective at reducing swelling and discomfort and providing greater peace of mind. Dr. Hershcovitch may also prescribe an antibiotic ointment or medicated eye drops and other medications to minimize the risk of infection and complications and facilitate comfort during recovery. Limit activities that strain the eyes, such as reading or using digital screens for prolonged periods. To further reduce the likelihood of pain, eye fatigue, and muscle soreness after eyelid surgery, patients should rest, maintain a proper diet, increase hydration, comply with all recovery instructions, and attend all follow-up appointments.
Transform Those Eyes With Blepharoplasty
Dr. Hershcovitch performs eyelid surgery on both the upper and lower lids, also known as upper and lower blepharoplasty, respectively. Patients can opt for one or both procedures depending on their cosmetic goals and treatment recommendations. Blepharoplasty can also be combined with other plastic facial and anti-aging procedures.
Call (818) 206-2539 Dr. Hershcovitch, MD, our double-board certified facial plastic surgeon, to learn if eyelid surgery is right for you.
