How Long Does Blurry Vision Last After Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, a plastic surgery procedure focusing on the eyelid, is becoming increasingly popular due to its impact on puffiness or skin folds—which can be a bother for some people. You must know the recovery process and post-operative care guidelines when considering an eyelid surgery.

If you are planning to have eyelid surgery, you may be worried about your vision being impaired. While this is true for some people, most patients find that their eyesight is only affected for a few days after surgery. In fact, the blurry vision usually clears up within a few hours of surgery.

What is the cause of blurry vision post-blepharoplasty?

A variety of factors can contribute to blurry vision after blepharoplasty. First, the surgery and the use of anaesthesia can cause swelling and inflammation in the eye area. Additionally, post-operative care lubricating drops and ointments administered to your eye or eyes, together with the reduction of blinking rate, may cause your eyes to feel drier than usual, making your vision blurry. 

How long does it take for my sight to return to normal?

After eyelid surgery, it may take about two to three weeks for your vision to return to normal. During the first few days, you may have blurry and double vision caused by eyelid swelling that is usually temporary. Complete recovery takes about two-four weeks, wherein you may experience some minor bruising beneath your eyes.

Doctor’s Note: Eye surgery and blepharoplasty are not the same. Eyelid or blepharoplasty surgery does not correct or improve your sight but is mainly to fix or treat a surgical condition of your eyes or their surrounding structures. It can only affect how your eyelids fall, which may improve your peripheral vision, and does not impact the eyes themselves.

Post-operative care instructions for rapid recovery

• Use an ice pack to reduce swelling. 
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyelids.
• Get more sleep. 
• Avoid physical exertion.
• Steer clear of smoking and alcohol.

Contact a qualified surgeon for more information

For more information about eyelid surgery, contact Australia’s leading facial plastic surgeon, Dr Jack Zoumaras, from Sydney’s Artiste Plastic Surgery. He has extensive experience in cosmetic surgeries, including upper eyelid and lower eyelid blepharoplasty, that significantly improve the patient’s appearance. He is the current Chairman of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons, NSW Chapter, and a Vogue Face expert. Schedule an appointment today.