Eyelid Lift Surgery in Columbus

Benefits

Blepharoplasty can offer a range of meaningful improvements, both aesthetic and functional, including:

• A more rested, alert, and youthful appearance
• Reduction of drooping or “hooded” upper eyelid skin
• Improvement of under-eye bags and puffiness
• Smoother, more even eyelid contours
• Improved peripheral vision in cases where excess upper eyelid skin obstructs sight
• Long-lasting results, as the removed skin and fat do not return

Many patients find that eyelid surgery enhances not only how they look, but how refreshed and confident they feel. Patients often say they finally look as energized as they feel inside.

Who Is a Good Candidate

You may be a good candidate for blepharoplasty if you’re bothered by sagging, puffy, or tired-looking eyelids and are in good general health. Ideal candidates typically:

• Have realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
• Are non-smokers, or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
• Do not have serious eye conditions such as glaucoma or dry eye syndrome that could complicate healing
• Are bothered by excess upper eyelid skin, under-eye bags, or both
• Seek either a cosmetic refresh, functional vision improvement, or both

During your consultation, Dr. Bernacki will conduct a thorough evaluation, including a review of your medical history and a discussion of your aesthetic goals, to help determine whether blepharoplasty is the right choice for you.

Post-Operative Instructions for Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift) Surgery

Introduction

The following instructions are designed to guide you through your recovery after eyelid lift surgery. Please read through them carefully. We’ll also review your care instructions with you personally. Following these guidelines closely will help you achieve the best possible results. Blepharoplasty involves surgery of the upper and/or lower eyelid and can typically be performed as an ambulatory (outpatient) procedure when these simple guidelines are followed.

Aftercare

Diet — Most patients are able to resume a normal diet the evening of surgery. If you feel queasy or nauseated, start with clear liquids or soup and advance as tolerated. Some constipation may occur as a side effect of pain medication; an over-the-counter laxative such as Milk of Magnesia or a stool softener is recommended. If needed, Dulcolax or a glycerin suppository (available over the counter) can also help.

Activity — Some mild activity is good for the recovery process. Walk at least 300 yards daily (broken into short trips is fine) to help prevent blood clots but avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling anything over 5 lbs, or vigorous exercise for 2 weeks. Check with Dr. Bernacki before resuming strenuous activity. Additionally patients should:

• Rest with your head elevated on several pillows at a 30–40 degree angle; sleep on your back with your head elevated for the first 2 weeks
• Apply cool compresses over your eyes every 2–3 hours for 20–30 minutes during the first 4 days (never place anything frozen directly on the skin)
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes; eyeglasses are fine as needed; wait 2 weeks before reinserting contact lenses (only if eyes don’t feel dry)
• Avoid sun exposure for 6 weeks, then apply SPF 30+ when outdoors
• Avoid hot tubs or saunas for at least 6 weeks

Wound Care

You may shower the day after surgery, avoiding direct spray of water on your face. Baby shampoo is recommended, as it’s gentle on the eyes.

You may have steri-strips on your upper eyelids, please keep these dry. They may appear blood-stained shortly after surgery, which is normal. It’s also common to wake up with crusting on your eyelashes; gently clean this away with warm water.

Pain Control

Take your prescribed narcotic pain medication as instructed, with food (even just a few crackers) to help prevent nausea. Please don’t drive until you’re no longer taking narcotics and are free of significant pain.

Avoid aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications (like Motrin or Aleve) for 2–3 days after surgery, these can increase bleeding risk. Tylenol is safe to use immediately after surgery and may be alternated or used in place of prescribed medication.

When to Call Us (Emergencies)

Normal surgical pain and swelling should gradually improve 2–3 days after surgery. Signs of possible bleeding include sudden increased swelling, drainage of blood from the wound, severe bruising, or a sudden onset or increase in pain. A small or moderate amount of blood-tinged drainage from incisions or drain sites is common and not usually a concern; if you suspect active bleeding, applying direct pressure to the site can help.

Wound healing issues such as separation of the skin edges or an open area at the surgical site can be managed with a dressing change and proper wound care. Keep the area clean, apply a gauze dressing, and contact our office to discuss next steps at 614-682-5095. Most issues are easily resolved and don’t require significant intervention.

Please contact us promptly if you experience any of the following:

• Nausea lasting 4 hours or more that doesn’t respond to medication
• Persistent, uncontrolled bleeding
• Sudden enlargement and/or one-sided pain with bruising
• A fever of 101.5°F or higher lasting more than a few hours and not responding to medication
• Shortness of breath or Chest pain that’s notably worse on one side
• Leg swelling

If a situation feels urgent, please call 911 or go directly to the nearest emergency room and let our office know as well.

Follow-Up Care

Your follow-up visit is typically scheduled 7–10 days after surgery. If this hasn’t already been arranged, please call our office at 614-682-5095 to schedule.

Please note: Dr. Bernacki does not refill narcotic prescriptions. Once your prescription is finished, please transition to the over-the-counter options above. In some cases, antibiotics may also be prescribed.