After surgery moderate swelling of the eyelids and other facial areas is common and there is usually some discomfort following, which can be managed with medications. The skin may also feel dry and feel rough for a few months.
Immediately after surgery large, fluffy dressing is often applied and removed within one day after surgery and replaced with an elastic wrap. In some cases, drainage tubes will have been left under certain areas of the skin to reduce post-surgical swelling. After a few days, these and any stitches will be removed.
While you will be moving around in a couple of days, it is advised you to relax for a week or so. Any strenuous activity should be avoided until bruising and swelling subside, this can take four to six weeks. In terms of social activities, within two weeks the swelling should be reduced enough, however, many patients prefer to delay significant social activities for four weeks.