Ptosis, commonly known as a drooping eyelid, occurs when the upper eyelid falls lower than its normal position, sometimes obstructing vision. Ptosis surgery involves tightening the levator muscle that lifts the eyelid to correct this condition and improve both function and appearance. Healing happens in distinct stages, requiring patience and careful adherence to post-operative instructions. This timeline breaks down the recovery process.
Immediate Post-Surgery Experience
The first 48 to 72 hours following the procedure represent the acute phase of recovery, where initial swelling and bruising are most pronounced. Patients should expect the surgical area to feel sore or tight, and the eyelids may appear heavy. Mild pain is common but manageable with over-the-counter medication.
Temporary blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light, and watery or dry eyes are frequent symptoms due to surgical manipulation and lubricating ointments. You will likely need someone to drive you home and assist with care during these first few days.
To minimize swelling, apply a cold compress for 10 to 15 minutes at a time during the first three days. Keep your head elevated, even while sleeping, using extra pillows to lessen blood flow to the surgical site. Limit screen time to avoid eye strain and apply any prescribed antibiotic drops or ointments to prevent infection.
Navigating the First Two Weeks
The period from day three to day fourteen marks the transition to functional recovery as initial symptoms begin to subside. Swelling and bruising, which may have worsened slightly initially, will start to improve rapidly around the third day. Most patients see a significant reduction in noticeable bruising and swelling within seven to twelve days.
Sutures are typically removed between five and ten days after the operation, though some techniques use dissolvable stitches. Once sutures are out, clean the surgical site gently as advised by the doctor. Many patients feel comfortable returning to light, non-strenuous work, such as desk jobs, within a week.
To protect the healing tissue, avoid wearing eye makeup and contact lenses for about two weeks to reduce the risk of irritation or infection. Activities that increase eye pressure, such as heavy lifting or straining, should also be avoided during this time.
Return to Normal Activities
The timeline for resuming strenuous activities begins around the third week. Gentle exercise, such as walking, is safe after the first week, but more intense activities like heavy lifting or vigorous exercise should be avoided for approximately three to six weeks. Avoid swimming for about four weeks to minimize the risk of infection from waterborne bacteria.
While initial improvements in eyelid position are visible within the first few weeks, subtle swelling can linger for several months. The final aesthetic result is usually realized between three and six months post-surgery, once all residual swelling has resolved. The incision line, often placed within the natural crease of the eyelid, will continue to fade and become discreet during this period.
Variables That Affect Healing
The overall healing time varies among individuals, influenced by several factors beyond the standard timeline. The specific surgical approach used is a major determinant of recovery speed. For instance, an internal approach (Muller’s muscle-conjunctival resection) for mild ptosis often results in a faster recovery than an external approach (levator muscle repair) used for more severe cases.
A patient’s overall health also plays a significant role in recovery speed. Conditions like diabetes can slow the healing process, and smoking should be avoided entirely as it interferes with wound healing. Adherence to post-operative instructions, such as using ice packs and prescribed medications, directly affects the speed and quality of the final result.