Ptosis Recovery Time Varies by Individual

As time passes, aging naturally sets in. The main cause of aging is ultraviolet rays, which rapidly reduce moisture levels and alter collagen. One of the representative symptoms is decreased elasticity, which leads to deep wrinkles. In particular, the area around the eyes is the thinnest part of the skin, making it especially vulnerable to aging.

When it comes to aging around the eyes, drooping of the upper eyelids can make the face look sleepy or partially block the field of vision, reducing not only appearance but also functional vision. For this reason, one of the most commonly chosen procedures among middle-aged people is upper blepharoplasty.

Among the procedures most commonly chosen by middle-aged people to address this issue, upper blepharoplasty is a representative surgery. After checking the degree of eyelid drooping, the procedure is performed using either a non-incisional or an incisional method.

In the case of the non-incisional method, tiny openings are made below the double eyelid line, the eyelid skin is tightened to form the line, and the muscles are adjusted. The incisional method, on the other hand, carefully assesses the degree of eyelid drooping and the condition of the skin, then meticulously analyzes and designs the amount of tissue that needs to be removed. By removing part of the eyelid skin, fat, and muscle tissue, this method can improve eyelid drooping and reveal the previously covered eye.

Recently, actor Song Kang-ho appeared in public with a clearer eye shape after undergoing the upper blepharoplasty mentioned above. For celebrities, a tight schedule can significantly affect post-surgery plans, but upper blepharoplasty is a procedure that allows for relatively quick recovery.

So today, let’s take a look at the recovery period for upper blepharoplasty. The recovery period usually varies depending on the individual’s skin condition and the surgical method, so it is recommended to follow the care methods that suit you.

First, when the non-incisional method is used, the procedure tightens the muscles with threads without making a skin incision, so suture removal is not necessary. Because it does not create a large wound on the skin, swelling and bruising are minimal, and recovery is possible in about 1 to 2 weeks. After surgery, cold compresses are recommended for 3 days, followed by warm compresses, and getting enough rest may help reduce swelling.

When the incisional method is used, suture removal usually takes about 7 to 10 days from the day of surgery, and during this period you must be careful not to let water get into the surgical area and cause inflammation. Since tissue removal can cause significant swelling for at least 3 days, it is better to use cold ice packs to prevent further swelling and to rest sufficiently. However, in cold weather like these days, if cold compresses are difficult, it is fine not to use ice for long periods and instead repeat them several times at 5 to 10 minute intervals.

After a certain period has passed and the stitches have been removed, simple face washing and showering become possible. However, strenuous exercise, saunas, jjimjilbangs, and other places with excessive heat should be avoided for at least 3 months, as this can help the recovery process. After suture removal, the wound area remains exposed, so it is best to apply the eye drops and ophthalmic ointment prescribed by the hospital consistently for the instructed period and frequency to aid recovery and prevent the wound from opening. The prescribed eye drops and ophthalmic ointment can help prevent secondary infection in the surgical area and reduce postoperative swelling.

In addition, even after suture removal, compresses should continue in the same way. For one week after suture removal, it is good to alternate between cold and warm compresses, and after that, using only warm compresses without cold compresses may help blood circulation and reduce swelling.

For both non-incisional and incisional methods, alcohol and smoking should be avoided for at least one month, and touching the surgical area should be avoided. Also, when sleeping, it is recommended to keep the face higher than the heart and chest, and to sleep on your back. In addition, if the surgical area suddenly swells, severe pain occurs, or bleeding happens, you should contact the hospital promptly, or visit the emergency room in urgent situations.

Ptosis surgery is helpful not only aesthetically, but in many cases it is performed for therapeutic purposes, improving quality of life by reducing eye fatigue and improving vision. However, explanations about side effects, proper care methods, and accurate information should go hand in hand so that the results can be maintained without major problems in the future. Since the recovery period can vary depending on the condition of the eyelids, skin thickness, body type and recovery ability, and postoperative care methods, it is recommended to receive accurate consultation and proceed with the surgical method and design through consultation with an experienced specialist.

#Baba Plastic Surgery #Ptosis #Middle-Aged Eye Surgery #Upper Blepharoplasty #Eye Surgery