your exact recovery will depend on the procedure performed, your anatomy, and overall health. That said, most patients find comfort in having a general idea of what the healing journey looks like. Below are typical timelines for some of the most common surgeries Dr. BOal performs.
UPPER EYELID SURGERY (UPPER BLEPHAROPLASTY)
- Day One to Two: Mild swelling and tightness; vision may be slightly blurry
- Days Three to Five: Peak swelling/bruising; cold compresses and eye drops as directed
- Days Five to Seven: Sutures (if used) may be removed; most patients feel ready to resume light activities
- Week Two: Swelling greatly reduced; makeup may be worn if cleared by Dr. Boal
- Week Six+: Final results become visible as incisions fade and skin settles
LOWER EYELID SURGERY (LOWER BLEPHAROPLASTY)
- Days One to Three: Bruising and puffiness under the eyes; use of lubricating drops or ointment
- Week One: Gradual improvement in swelling; some tightness or dryness may persist
- Weeks Two to Three: Most bruising resolves; patients typically resume work and social activities
- Month Two+: Smoother contours and brighter under-eye appearance become apparent
BROW LIFT
- Days One to Two: Mild pressure or discomfort; forehead feels tight or numb.
- Week One: Swelling and bruising improve significantly.
- Week Two: Results begin to show, and most patients resume social activities.
- Months One to Three: Full lifting effect and incision fading continue to improve.
MOHS RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
- Day of Surgery: Minimal discomfort due to local anesthesia
- Days One to Five: Swelling and bruising around the repair site; sutures may be visible
- Weeks One to Two: Suture removal and scar optimization strategies begin
- Months One to Three: Natural results continue to refine, and scars soften
FACIAL TRAUMA, FRACTURE REPAIR, ORBITAL SURGERY
- Days One to Five: Significant swelling and bruising; rest and limited activity advised
- Week Two: Functional improvements noted (breathing, blinking, etc.)
- Months One to Two: Most patients return to normal activities with noticeable healing
- Months Three+: Ongoing refinement as bones and soft tissue fully heal
A note on surgical timelines:
- Healing is not always linear. Minor fluctuations in swelling, tightness, or asymmetry are normal as tissues adjust.
- Dr. Boal provides personalized recovery protocols based on your procedure and anatomy.
- Sun protection is essential to protect healing skin and minimize scarring.
- Follow-up visits are included to ensure your recovery is progressing safely and beautifully.
