Recovery & safety

A realistic recovery conversation

The NHS notes that many people take roughly two weeks away from work, while bruising and redness may take longer to settle and scars can feel tight for months. These are general observations, not a personal recovery timetable or clearance to fly.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons describes swelling, bruising, irritation, dry eyes and discomfort in early recovery. Your team should provide instructions for wound care, medication and follow-up, including when to seek help.

Discuss risks in plain language

ASPS lists risks including bleeding, infection, dryness, difficulty closing the eyes, changes in lower-lid position, scarring, persistent pain and possible revision. Vision changes can occur; blindness is a very rare but serious risk. Ask your surgeon which risks are especially relevant to your situation and how complications would be managed.

Leave with an actual aftercare plan

Ask for review dates, the suture or dressing plan, activity restrictions and instructions about contact lenses, eye products and sun protection. Clarify who responds outside clinic hours and which local service you should use if the clinic is closed.

Severe pain or unexpected symptoms should prompt immediate contact with the treating team. Seek urgent medical care for sudden vision loss or other serious eye symptoms rather than waiting for an online reply.

Your consultation questions

Keep the wider picture in view

This guide supports a conversation with a qualified clinician. It cannot diagnose an eyelid condition or establish which treatment is suitable for you.

Plan recovery as stages, not one deadline

Before leaving the clinic, know how to care for the incisions and whom to contact. Follow the prescribed plan for eye drops or ointment, compresses and activity. Do not copy another patient’s medication schedule or change prescribed medicines without the treating clinician’s instructions.

The next milestone is your scheduled review, which may include checking wounds and removing non-dissolving sutures. Later reviews assess how the eyelids function and how the result is settling. Ask the clinic to distinguish these appointments from the date you hope to return to work.

When can I fly after eyelid surgery in Korea?

Flight timing needs discussion before you book. The CDC cites a general ASPS recommendation to wait 7–10 days after cosmetic procedures involving the eyelids or face before flying. This is not individual clearance: complications, combined operations, your health and required reviews can mean a longer stay.

Plan enough flexibility to remain locally if the treating surgeon advises it. Ask who will examine you before departure and where you can receive hands-on care after returning home.