Upper Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgeries are typically not considered to be very painful. Most patients are able to stop prescription pain medications and use just Tylenol after 2-3 days. Some bruising around the eyelids may occur, which typically resolves 5-7 days after surgery.

For upper eyelid surgery, you’ll typically need two to three appointments with Dr. Shastri. The first is your initial consultation, where Dr. Shastri will assess your eyelids. Next is the surgery day itself, which is done on an outpatient basis, so you won’t need an overnight stay. After the procedure, you’ll have a follow-up appointment to ensure everything is healing properly, remove sutures, and address concerns. Depending on your recovery, additional follow-up visits may be needed, but Dr. Shastri will guide you through each step of the process.

You’ll start to notice some improvement in the appearance of your eyelids right away after upper eyelid surgery, but the final results typically become clear within 1 to 2 months. Swelling and bruising usually subside within the first few weeks, so you’ll see a noticeable difference as healing progresses.

Scarring from upper eyelid surgery is typically minimal and well-hidden. The incisions are made along the natural folds of your eyelids, so they are usually barely noticeable once healed. Over time, the scars will fade and become even less noticeable.

After upper eyelid surgery, give your body the time it needs to heal before resuming intense physical activity. Dr. Shastri recommends waiting at least two to three weeks before engaging in strenuous exercises, such as running, weightlifting, or anything that could increase blood flow to your face. However, light activities like walking can be resumed sooner.

Upper blepharoplasties can be performed alone but are often combined with lower blepharoplasty or other procedures such as brow lifts, facelifts, neck lifts, and chin implants. During the consultation, Dr. Shastri can review your images and help you determine a treatment plan that can comprehensively address all of your facial concerns.

Blepharoplasties are generally considered safe surgery with a relatively quick recovery time and limited pain. Risks and complications are rare but certainly are possible no matter how experienced a facial plastic surgeon may be. Risks include the following:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Scarring
• Asymmetry
• Temporary or permanent loss of sensation

During your consultation, Dr. Shastri will thoroughly discuss the risks and benefits and take all necessary precautions to minimize the risk of complications.

To find the right surgeon for your upper eyelid surgery in Chicago, start by looking for board-certified plastic surgeons with solid experience in eyelid procedures. Take time to review their qualifications, especially their experience with blepharoplasty. Scheduling consultations is key—this gives you the chance to discuss your goals and see if you’re comfortable with their approach. Don’t forget to ask to see before-and-after photos of past patients to get a feel for their work. Finally, checking patient reviews will help ensure you’re choosing a surgeon who delivers excellent results and has a great reputation.