Recovery after eyelid surgery is generally shorter and more comfortable than after many other cosmetic operations, but the first week still calls for planning. Knowing what is normal at each stage helps you to plan time off work, your stay and your journey home. This guide describes a typical timeline after blepharoplasty in Antalya, along with practical advice for each stage.
How long does it take to recover from eyelid surgery?
Most people feel ready for everyday activities and desk work within 7–10 days, once the stitches are out and bruising is fading. Residual swelling settles over 2–3 months, and scars continue to mature for up to a year.
Recovery is often slightly longer after lower eyelid surgery, or when upper and lower lids are treated together, because swelling and bruising tend to be more pronounced.
What happens day by day in the first two weeks?
| Time after surgery | What is typical |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Tightness, mild soreness, blurred vision from ointment; cold compresses |
| Days 2–3 | Swelling and bruising peak; eyes may feel dry or watery |
| Days 4–5 | Swelling begins to ease; bruising turns yellow-green |
| Days 5–7 | Stitches removed; incisions look pink |
| Days 7–10 | Many return to desk work; light make-up may soon be possible if wounds have closed |
| Days 10–14 | Most bruising has faded; social activities feel comfortable again |
Bruising may also spread to the cheeks, and the white of the eye can occasionally become swollen or show a small red patch. These usually resolve on their own.
What helps reduce bruising and swelling?
Simple measures in the first few days make a noticeable difference.
- Apply cold compresses gently for short periods in the first 48 hours.
- Sleep with your head raised for at least a week.
- Avoid bending forward, heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 2–3 weeks.
- Do not smoke, and avoid alcohol in the early days.
- Take only medicines approved by your surgeon; some painkillers and supplements increase bleeding.
- Use prescribed eye drops and ointments as directed.
When can I use screens, read or watch television?
Reading, phones and television are usually possible within a few days, but your eyes will tire quickly. Short sessions with frequent breaks are kinder on dry, swollen eyes. Blinking less while concentrating on a screen also makes dryness worse, so lubricating drops can help.
When can I wear make-up and contact lenses again?
Eye make-up is usually postponed until the stitches have been removed and the wounds have fully closed, typically around 10–14 days. New products are recommended to reduce the risk of infection.
Contact lenses are generally avoided for about 2 weeks, or longer if the eyes remain dry or irritated, as inserting them stretches the lids. Glasses can usually be worn from the start, and sunglasses are helpful outdoors.
How long should I stay in Antalya, and when can I fly?
Most patients from the UK are advised to stay in Antalya for about 5–7 days. This allows the stitches to be removed and healing to be checked before you fly.
Flying itself does not damage healing eyelids, but the dry cabin air can make the eyes feel gritty. Pack your lubricating drops in your hand luggage, wear sunglasses to shield your eyes and to cover bruising, and drink plenty of water. If you have a history of blood clots, discuss this at your consultation.
When can I go back to work and exercise?
Desk-based work is often possible after about 7–10 days, although some people prefer to wait until bruising has faded completely. Jobs involving physical exertion, dust or heat may require longer.
- Walking: encouraged from the first day.
- Light exercise: usually after about 2 weeks.
- Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting: usually after 2–3 weeks.
- Swimming: generally after about 2–3 weeks, once the wounds have fully healed.
Which symptoms need urgent attention?
Most discomfort after eyelid surgery is mild. However, the following symptoms should be reported immediately:
- sudden, severe or increasing pain in or behind the eye
- rapidly increasing swelling, especially on one side
- a hard, bulging eye or reduced vision
- heavy bleeding
- signs of infection such as fever, spreading redness or discharge
Very rarely, bleeding behind the eye can occur and requires urgent treatment. After returning to the UK, contact the clinic first; if symptoms are severe, seek urgent local medical care straight away.
When will I see the final result?
You will see a clear difference once the bruising fades after about two weeks, but the final appearance develops over 2–3 months as residual swelling settles. Scars may look pink at first and gradually soften and fade over 6–12 months.
For an overview of the procedure itself, its risks and who it may suit, visit the blepharoplasty page. Suitability is always decided at a medical examination.
Frequently asked questions
How should I sleep after blepharoplasty?
Sleep on your back with your head raised on two or three pillows for at least the first week. This helps fluid drain away from the eyes and reduces morning swelling. Avoid sleeping on your side or face, which can put pressure on the incisions. Some people find a travel pillow helpful to stop them turning over during the night.
Can I wash my hair and face after eyelid surgery?
Gentle washing of the hair is usually possible after a day or two, preferably leaning back so that water and shampoo do not run over the eyes. The face can be cleaned carefully around the incisions, avoiding rubbing. Follow the specific wound-care instructions you are given, as these may vary depending on the type of stitches and the approach used.
Is it normal for my eyes to water a lot after surgery?
Yes. Watering is common in the first days and weeks, often because swelling temporarily affects how tears drain or because the eye surface is irritated. Paradoxically, dry eyes can also cause watering. It usually improves as swelling settles. Using prescribed lubricating drops helps. If watering is accompanied by pain, redness or reduced vision, contact your surgeon.
Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery · Medical Director, AYT Clinic
This page is for general information only and does not replace a medical consultation. Suitability, risks and expected results are assessed individually during an examination.