What's the recovery like for Upper Blepharoplasty?

Everything you need to know about Upper Blepharoplasty recovery — timeline, tips, what to avoid, and when to call your provider.

Typical downtime: 7–14 days — you may not be able to fully close your eyes at first, and that is expected

Recovery timeline

Days 1–3

Bruising and swelling peak and the eyes feel tight and puffy. The unsettling part: you may not be able to fully close your eyes (lagophthalmos), and they may feel dry and light-sensitive. This is normal early swelling. Cold compresses and head elevation help.

Days 4–7

Bruising turns from purple to yellow and swelling drops noticeably. Sutures usually come out at day 7. The incision can look its worst — red and a little crusty — right before it starts to fade.

Days 7–14

Most bruising resolves; presentable with concealer or sunglasses. Incision lines are pink and visible. Most people return to light work.

Weeks 4–6

Swelling fully resolves and the final result appears. Incision lines keep fading over 6 to 12 months.

Things nobody tells you

You may not be able to fully close your eyes for the first few days (lagophthalmos) — swelling causes it and it resolves.
Dryness and light sensitivity are common early on, which is why lubricating drops are part of aftercare.
The incision often looks its worst around day 5 to 7, right before it starts to fade.

Recovery tips

Not fully closing your eyes for the first few days (lagophthalmos) is common from swelling and resolves as it settles
Use lubricating drops as directed — dryness and light sensitivity are normal early on
The incision often looks worst around day 5 to 7 before it fades — do not be alarmed
Keep your head elevated and apply cold compresses wrapped in cloth, never ice directly
Sleep on your back if possible for the first week

What to avoid

Eye makeup for at least 2 weeks, until sutures are out and incisions are healed
Contact lenses for 2 weeks — glasses only
Strenuous exercise or anything that raises blood pressure for 3 weeks
Aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood thinners (unless prescribed) for 2 weeks post-op
Direct sun on incisions for 6 months — use SPF 50+

When to call your provider

Sudden increase in pain, pressure, or swelling in one eye — possible hematoma
Vision changes, blurring, or double vision
Inability to close the eyes that worsens or persists beyond the first several days
Signs of infection: increasing redness, warmth, discharge, or fever above 101°F

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Frequently asked questions

Is it normal that I can't fully close my eyes after upper blepharoplasty?

Yes — temporary incomplete closure (lagophthalmos) from swelling is common in the first days. Use lubricating drops to protect the eye and it resolves as swelling subsides. Closure that worsens or persists should be reported.

Why are my eyes so dry and light-sensitive?

Swelling and the healing incisions commonly cause temporary dryness and light sensitivity. Lubricating drops and sunglasses help, and it improves over the first couple of weeks.

When will it look normal?

Most people are presentable by day 7 to 10, with the final result at 4 to 6 weeks once swelling fully resolves.

This recovery guide is general education, not medical advice, and does not replace your provider's instructions. Healing varies by person and procedure — always follow the aftercare guidance from your own licensed provider and contact them with any concerns.