Double Eyelid Surgery Swelling Duration and Aftercare Tips

Hello.

This is Vibe Plastic Surgery.

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When you come in for a consultation,

the most common question we receive

is about swelling.

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For double eyelid surgery, depending on the type of surgery and aftercare,

there can be significant individual differences,

but you don't need to worry too much.

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How long does double eyelid surgery swelling last?

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Generally, it takes about 5-7 days.

This is the period when the swelling is at its worst.

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For larger lines, it takes 3-4 weeks.

For smaller lines, it takes 1-2 weeks.

You can expect it to take about this long.

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Aftercare tips for double eyelid surgery?

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You should apply cold compresses for the first 3 days after surgery,

and warm compresses after 3 days.

*The switch between cold and warm compresses is based on the 3-day mark post-surgery.

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Why use cold compresses?

The purpose is to constrict blood vessels and prevent further bleeding.

Therefore, it is very helpful for hemostasis in the early stages.

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Why use warm compresses?

Unlike cold compresses, the purpose is to dilate blood vessels

and improve blood circulation.

However, if you use warm compresses from the beginning, blood vessels will dilate,

which can cause minor bleeding,

worsen swelling,

and slow down recovery.

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What causes swelling to last longer?

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✔ If you have cold hands and feet

✔ If your body tends to swell easily

✔ If you have low physical activity (=people who are easily bothered)

✔ If it is a revision surgery

✔ If you enjoy eating spicy or salty foods

✔ If you consume alcohol before or after surgery

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(Want to know the effects of alcohol before and after plastic surgery?▼)

The correlation between alcohol and plastic surgery

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At our clinic, if necessary,

we provide reliable aftercare

such as deswelling laser treatments and scar injections.

If you are planning to get double eyelid surgery,

please get a consultation at Vibe Plastic Surgery.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the swelling most severe after double eyelid surgery?

The swelling is most severe for about 5 to 7 days after the surgery. After this period, it gradually begins to subside, and the recovery period takes about 1 to 2 weeks for smaller lines and 3 to 4 weeks for larger lines, depending on the size of the surgical line.

How should I apply compresses after surgery?

The method of applying compresses differs starting from 3 days after the surgery. For the first 3 days, you should apply cold compresses to constrict blood vessels and prevent bleeding, and after 3 days, it is good for recovery to apply warm compresses to dilate blood vessels and aid blood flow.

Can't I apply warm compresses from the beginning?

No, you should avoid applying warm compresses from the beginning. If warm compresses are applied immediately after surgery, blood vessels can dilate, leading to minor bleeding, which can actually worsen swelling and delay the recovery period, so caution is needed.

Are there any reasons why double eyelid swelling lasts particularly long?

Yes, swelling can last longer if you usually experience swelling in your body or have cold hands and feet. Additionally, if you have low activity levels, enjoy spicy foods, consumed alcohol before or after the surgery, or if it's a revision surgery, the recovery of swelling may be slower.

Does the hospital provide a post-operative care program?

Yes, VIBE Plastic Surgery provides reassuring post-operative care to help patients recover quickly. Depending on the individual's recovery status, customized care such as swelling laser and scar injections are provided as needed to reduce the burden of swelling and scars.