Dry Eyes After Blepharoplasty: Why It Happens & How to Manage It

Dry Eyes After Blepharoplasty: Why It Happens and How to Manage It

Blepharoplasty — eyelid surgery — is one of the most rejuvenating procedures for the eyes and face. By removing excess skin, tightening muscles, and restoring contour, it can make a person look more alert, rested, and youthful.

But as the eyes heal, some patients experience a temporary problem that can be uncomfortable: dry eyes.

At around three to four months after surgery, some patients notice that their eyes feel sore, red, or watery. They may also experience photosensitivity — finding bright light, supermarkets, or windy conditions uncomfortable. These symptoms are all part of a process that often improves naturally over time, but it’s important to understand what causes it and what can be done to help.

Why dry eyes happen after eyelid surgery

After a blepharoplasty, the delicate tissues around the eyes go through a period of swelling and healing. This can temporarily affect how the eyelids blink and how tears are distributed across the surface of the eyes.

Even small changes in eyelid closure or the tear film can lead to dryness, watering, redness, or sensitivity to light.

In most cases:

• The tear glands are still producing tears, but the tears may not be spreading evenly.
• The eyelid skin may be tighter, slightly changing the blink pattern.
• Healing nerves can make the eyes feel more sensitive or irritated.
• Environmental triggers such as wind, sun, or air-conditioning can worsen symptoms.

Typical symptoms

Patients often describe:

• Eyes that water excessively in windy or bright conditions
• A feeling of grittiness or soreness
• Redness or bloodshot eyes
• Light sensitivity (photophobia)
• Discomfort that feels worse at night or on waking in the morning

It’s also quite common to think that because the eyes are watering, they can’t be dry — but this reflex watering is actually the eye’s way of trying to compensate for dryness.

What helps: lubrication and patience

The most important step is to keep the eyes well lubricated.

Simple artificial tears or eye gels during the day, and a thicker lubricating ointment at night, can make a big difference. These are available from most pharmacies and opticians.

Avoid using antibiotic-based ointments such as Golden Eye or chloramphenicol creams unless specifically prescribed by your doctor. These products are designed for infections rather than dryness, and prolonged use can lead to sensitivity or antibiotic resistance.

At night, if your eyes feel sore or sticky on waking, apply a lubricating gel before sleep. During the day, use drops that mimic natural tears — your optician can advise on the best type based on your tear production.

When to see an optician or surgeon

If you’re still noticing irritation, redness, or photosensitivity a few months after surgery, a simple tear-film assessment at your optician can be helpful. This checks how well your eyes produce and retain tears, and whether your eyelids are closing fully.

They can then suggest:

• Specific types of lubricating drops or gels
• How often to use them
• Whether a humidifier or lifestyle adjustment (like avoiding fans or reducing screen time) might help

Most patients find that these symptoms gradually resolve over four to six months as their eyelids and tear glands return to normal function.

The good news

Dry eyes after blepharoplasty are usually temporary.

As the eyelids continue to soften and the blink function normalises, tear production and distribution improve. Most patients are back to complete comfort within a few months.

If symptoms persist beyond six months, your surgeon can reassess you to rule out other causes and ensure your recovery is progressing as expected.

Summary

• Dry eyes are common after eyelid surgery and often improve with time.
• Use lubricating drops during the day and ointment at night.
• Avoid antibiotic creams unless prescribed.
• See your optician for a tear-film check if symptoms continue.
• Protect your eyes from wind, bright light, and sun while healing.

With the right care, your eyes will settle and your results will continue to refine beautifully.

FAQ: Dry Eyes After Blepharoplasty

• How long do dry eyes last after eyelid surgery?

Most people find that dryness and irritation improve within 3–6 months as the eyelids soften and tear production normalises.

• Why do my eyes water if they’re dry?

When the eye surface becomes dry, it triggers a reflex to produce more tears. These watery tears don’t stay long enough to hydrate the eye properly, which is why you may still feel dry or gritty.

• Can I use antibiotic ointments like Golden Eye?

Not unless your doctor recommends it. Golden Eye contains chloramphenicol, which treats infections, not dryness, and can cause sensitivity with prolonged use.

• Are there specific drops I should use?

Yes — opticians can test your tear film and suggest preservative-free artificial tears or gels that suit your specific needs.

• When should I see my surgeon again?

If you’re still having discomfort, redness, or light sensitivity beyond six months, or if you develop pain or discharge, book a review appointment.

Dry eyes and watering can occur after blepharoplasty due to temporary changes in eyelid movement and tear film. Learn why this happens, how to manage it with the right drops and gels, and when to see your optician or surgeon.