When Can I Wear Makeup After Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery has become increasingly popular as it rejuvenates your look. Fine lines, wrinkles, skin sagging, hollowness, and dark circles can make you look tired and much older than you are. Eyelid surgery can refresh tired, aged eyes. Before moving forward with the procedure, many patients ask about the recovery process. It is smooth and fairly fast compared to other cosmetic surgeries. Some patients ask, when can I wear makeup after eyelid surgery? Below you will find helpful information about the recovery timeline after eyelid surgery.

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Eyelid surgery offers amazing results, but it is important to be patient with the recovery process. Many patients are concerned about the residual bruising and want to get back to their makeup routine. Your surgeon will let you know when you can resume some of your normal routine, such as makeup application. However, it depends on several factors. This includes your healing progress and incision closure. Skin sensitivity, swelling, and surgical technique also play a role. Understanding what happens at each stage throughout recovery can help you feel more prepared for the weeks ahead.

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In general, most patients can carefully apply makeup away from the incisions within one to two weeks. However, full eyelid makeup takes more time. You may need to wait until three or more weeks after surgery. This includes makeup products like eyeliner, mascara, and eye shadow. Your Double Board-Certified Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon will evaluate your incisions at your follow-up visit to assess your recovery progress. When you are ready, they will clear you for your partial or full makeup routine.

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You may want to risk wearing makeup to feel better, but this is a major mistake. Honoring the recovery process is important for a variety of reasons. Below are the risks associated with wearing makeup too soon after eyelid surgery.

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Makeup brushes, sponges, and products carry bacteria. This is the case even if they look clean. Introducing bacteria into a fresh incision significantly increases your risk of infection. This is a major problem, as an infection can slow down the healing process. It also requires additional treatment and can impact the look of your final results.

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Cosmetic products often contain ingredients that can irritate your skin. This includes fragrances and preservatives. Applying these products near a healing incision can cause redness, itching, and increased swelling. This irritation can prolong the recovery process. It can also make it harder for your surgeon to monitor your healing.

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Makeup application can impact your final results and increase the risk of scarring. This is because applying makeup can lead to tugging or rubbing during the application process. When this is done on or around the incision site, it can make scarring much worse. This includes scars that are wide, red, or even dark. Allowing the incision to fully heal is one of the best ways to reduce visible scarring after surgery.

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The surgery itself takes just an hour or two. However, the recovery process is a major part of the process. How you care for yourself and your incisions after surgery has a major impact on the results. Below is the general recovery timeline after eyelid surgery, including what to expect.

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Eyelid surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, so you get to go home the same day. You will notice swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort during the first few days. Your eyes may feel tight and sensitive during this time. To help manage your symptoms, take your medication as prescribed. You should also use a cold compress and keep your head elevated. This can reduce swelling and help manage pain. Rest is one of the best things you can do for yourself during this time.

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Swelling and bruising generally peak after the first few days. You will notice them gradually go down as you recover. Bruising generally transitions from deep purple or blue to green and yellow. This is a good sign as you heal. If sutures were used, they are generally taken out within the first week. While you should continue to rest, gentle movement can help with the recovery process. Light walking improves blood circulation and promotes optimal healing.

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Most patients get back to their routine by the ten- to fourteen-day mark. Bruising is often completely gone or very mild. Swelling continues to go down with proper rest and care. In many cases, you will have a follow-up appointment with the surgeon by this point. You must attend this appointment. They will assess your recovery progress and make any necessary modifications.

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In most cases, patients are fully back to their entire routine. This includes makeup application, as long as your surgeon clears it. However, you should still avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting. Many patients get back to this by the one-month mark. However, you should address this directly with your surgeon. It is also advisable to avoid bending over, as it can put pressure on your incisions. The best thing you can do is take your time and be patient with the recovery process.

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​You will notice results from eyelid surgery right away. However, it can take a few months to see your final results. This is because the initial swelling goes down fairly quickly. However, there will be residual swelling in the area for months. Attending all of your follow-up appointments allows your surgeon to monitor your progress. You should also continue to follow their aftercare instructions to ensure your long-term results.

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Eyelid surgery can address the signs of aging around the eyes. If you are interested in refreshing your look, contact Dr. Sarah Avila and her team today to schedule your consultation!

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