What's the recovery like for Lower Blepharoplasty?
Everything you need to know about Lower Blepharoplasty recovery — timeline, tips, what to avoid, and when to call your provider.
Typical downtime: 10–14 days before returning to social activities
Recovery timeline
Days 1–3
Significant bruising and swelling under the eyes. This is normal. Cold compresses help. Keep head elevated.
Days 4–7
Bruising transitions from dark purple to yellow-green. Swelling begins to reduce. Lower lids may feel tight. Sutures (if external) removed around day 5–7.
Days 7–14
Most patients are presentable with concealer. Return to light work typically possible. Lower lid position stabilizes.
Weeks 4–6
Most swelling resolved. Scar (if external) is pink and continues fading.
Months 3–6
Final result fully visible. Subtle residual swelling and scar maturation complete.
Recovery tips
- Sleep with your head elevated for the first 2 weeks
- Use cold compresses gently — avoid direct pressure on the lower lid
- Lubricating eye drops may be needed for dryness in the first few weeks
- Arnica supplements or gel can reduce bruising duration
- Protect incision lines from sun with SPF 50+ for at least 6 months
What to avoid
- Eye makeup for at least 2 weeks
- Contact lenses for 2 weeks
- Strenuous exercise for 3 to 4 weeks
- Rubbing or pressing on the lower eyelids
- Reading or screen time for the first 48 hours
When to call your provider
- Sudden severe pain or pressure in the eye — possible hematoma
- Any vision changes, including blurring or double vision
- Inability to close the eye (lower lid retraction)
- Signs of infection: increasing redness, warmth, discharge, or fever
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Browse all Lower Blepharoplasty providers →Frequently asked questions
How long is recovery after lower blepharoplasty?
Most patients are presentable by day 10 to 14. Bruising and significant swelling resolve within 2 to 3 weeks. Final results are visible at 3 to 6 months.
Will I have visible scars after lower blepharoplasty?
Transconjunctival lower blepharoplasty (incision inside the lid) leaves no external scar. External-incision lower bleph leaves a fine line just below the lash line that typically fades to near-invisible within 3 to 6 months.