You can reduce swelling after blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) by keeping your head elevated, using cold compresses as directed, avoiding strenuous activity, and carefully following your DC facial plastic surgeon’s postoperative instructions.
As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon at Potomac Plastic Surgery, I’m sharing my top tips for minimizing swelling after blepharoplasty:
Apply Ice to Eyes
This is most useful during the first 48 hours. However, every surgeon has a preference based on the procedure and each specific patient. I advise cosmetic patients to keep fresh, clean ice packs over surgical wounds while awake only for the first 2 days. After the first 2 days, ice does help control swelling, but it is much less effective. I still recommend using ice for the first week, as tolerated.
Keep Your Head Elevated
Sleeping on top of several pillows or in a chair helps reduce facial swelling after cosmetic surgery. I also advise you to avoid bending over, heavy lifting, straining, and other strenuous activity (including sex) for at least 2 weeks following blepharoplasty and other types of facial plastic surgery. This activity restriction helps reduce swelling and contributes to smooth healing during the early recovery period.
Some plastic surgeons also prescribe a steroid pill, such as prednisone, to control postprocedure swelling and help in recovery.
Follow Your Blepharoplasty Aftercare Instructions Closely
Following your blepharoplasty aftercare instructions closely is one of the most effective ways to reduce swelling, support proper healing, and protect your surgical results. I provide personalized postoperative guidance based on the specific eyelid procedure performed and individual healing factors.
Aftercare instructions for traditional or Asian eyelid surgery (double-eyelid surgery) may include:
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When and how to use cold compresses
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Proper head elevation while resting or sleeping
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Activity restrictions to avoid increased swelling or pressure
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Medication and ointment use to support healing
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Signs of normal healing versus when to contact your surgeon
Carefully following these instructions helps minimize unnecessary swelling, reduces the risk of complications, and allows the eyelids to heal as smoothly and predictably as possible.
Although most swelling after eyelid surgery resolves in a couple of weeks, it typically takes longer for the final swelling to go away. Speak with your eyelid surgeon and ask when you should stop using ice packs.
Ready to Speak With a Blepharoplasty Expert?
Whether you’re pursuing traditional upper or lower blepharoplasty, or specialized Asian blepharoplasty, a consultation at Potomac Plastic Surgery is an essential next step in assessing your surgical candidacy. I encourage you to request a consultation using the online form or by calling us at (202) 800-2085 to schedule an appointment.
This blog post was originally published in June 2009 and updated in March 2026.
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