Ptosis of the upper eyelid is the drooping of the upper lid, either on one side or both sides. It can be linked to wearing contact lenses, allergic conjunctivitis, injury, and certain medical conditions affecting muscles or nerves. Ptosis can also be present from birth. However, in most cases, increasing age appears to be the primary cause.
For many patients, the extent of ptosis fluctuates throughout the day, often worsening in the evening. If the upper lid droops over the pupil, it can lead to vision loss, especially in the upper part of the area of vision. Surgery is usually the best treatment for most patients experiencing visual problems due to ptosis. However, some patients also explore eyelids workouts for droopy eyelids, especially when the ptosis is mild.
Similar to other types of surgery, recovery time is involved with droopy eyelid surgery. If you are considering this surgery as a solution for ptosis, review this guide to understand what recovery entails after ptosis surgery.
What is the Recovery Process After Droopy Eyelid Surgery?
The results of droopy eyelid surgery typically last between 5 to 7 years before requiring a follow-up procedure. This timeframe allows ample opportunity to assess how beneficial the initial surgery was for you. Older patients may need revision surgery sooner than younger patients. After observing the long-term consistency of your initial results, your doctor can determine if revision surgery is needed.
It is important to recognise that eyelid surgery carries inherent risks. The most frequent side effects patients might encounter post-surgery are:
- Dry and irritated eyes
- Formation of scars
- Potential injury to the eye muscles
- Skin discolouration
- Difficulty in closing the eyes or other related issues
- Potential need for additional surgery to address any issues
Also, anticipate experiencing several common symptoms in the weeks immediately following the procedure, such as:
- Excessive tearing of the eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Double vision
- Pain
- Discomfort
- Swelling and bruises
- Puffiness around the surgical area
How to Enhance Recovery After Droopy Eyelid Surgery?
To ensure a smooth recovery process after your blepharoplasty, there are specific behaviours you can adopt. Many patients have found the following tips helpful in achieving a complete recovery with minimal complications:
- Follow the prescribed regimen of eye drops and ointments.
- Apply cold compresses to the area where the surgery was performed.
- Keep your head elevated above your chest while sleeping in the immediate aftermath of the procedure.
- Consider wearing prescription sunglasses if you expect to be exposed to significant sunlight.
- Use pain-controlling anti-inflammatory drugs.
Furthermore, it’s important to avoid certain activities to prevent complications during your recovery. Try to avoid the following:
- Engaging in strenuous and stressful physical activity
- Rubbing your eyes
- Smoking tobacco
- Wearing contact lenses for approximately two weeks after your initial procedure
- Using aspirin, ibuprofen, or other NSAID anti-inflammatory
Be attentive to any troubling symptoms that may indicate a risk of serious health issues related to your surgery. The following symptoms call for quick medical attention:
- Chest pain
- Unusual heart palpitations
- Severe eye pain
- Vision problems
- Bleeding
What are the Aftercare Instructions Following Ptosis Surgery?
After the ptosis surgery, your vision may be blurry due to the thick ointment applied to keep your eye moist. A padded dressing might be placed on your eyelid to reduce swelling, and it should be left on for the first day. You can remove it at home following the provided instructions. The nurse will help clean your eyelids before you leave the hospital.
Once you’re home, follow the given instructions. You will be prescribed ointment and/or eye drops to prevent dryness, which is common after surgery and can cause irritation. Starting on the fifth day after the surgery, you should gently wash your eyelids to clean the sutures and make it easier to remove them.
After a week, you will need to visit the clinic for a follow-up appointment to check the healing progress and your eyelid’s position. Then, you will need to return to the clinic within the next 12 weeks for a proper assessment of the surgical result once the swelling and bruising have gone down. The stitches may be removed during the first follow-up appointment at the clinic or may dissolve on their own, depending on the type used.
Conclusion
Droopy eyelid surgery presents a highly effective solution for people suffering from ptosis, providing functional and cosmetic advantages. By gaining insights into the right aftercare following the surgery, patients can confidently navigate their eye care journey. Given the unique nature of each individual’s experience with ptosis, your doctor will tailor a personalised treatment plan and offer specific guidelines based on your unique requirements.
If you’re considering undergoing Ptosis surgery in Leeds, consult with an experienced surgeon to understand the options and get a tailored recovery plan for optimal results.
