Have you recently undergone eyelid surgery and wondering what steps to take for a smooth recovery process?
Or are you planning to have this surgery soon and want to know what to expect during the recuperation period?
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is becoming a popular cosmetic procedure for both men and women.
The surgery aims to improve the appearance of the eyelids by reducing the sagging, bagginess, or puffiness around the eyes. However, like any surgery, the recovery period is critical to ensure a successful outcome.
To have a speedy and smooth recovery from eyelid surgery, it’s important to prepare your home environment and take the necessary precautions.
While your surgeon will provide you with post-operative instructions tailored to your specific needs, this article will provide you with some general tips and tricks for recovering from eyelid surgery at home.
After Care Tips
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that involves removing excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids.
Though it is typically an outpatient procedure, proper aftercare is crucial to helping you recover at home.
Here are some aftercare tips to help you recover from eyelid surgery at home.
Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions
Following the aftercare instructions given by your surgeon is essential in ensuring a smooth and successful recovery.
This includes keeping your head elevated for a few days, taking all medications as prescribed, and avoiding activities that may cause your blood pressure to increase. Additionally, make sure to attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
Apply Cold Compresses to relieve swelling
Applying cold compresses to the surgical area helps to minimize swelling and bruising. Use a clean, damp cloth or ice cubes wrapped in a towel and gently apply it around the eyes.
Apply this several times a day for about ten to fifteen minutes each time.
It is recommended that you use them frequently, particularly during the initial days, as reduced swelling in the eyes results in less tension on the stitches and less discomfort.
Some individuals find relief using cold masks from the freezer. To avoid adding pressure on the swollen tissue, it’s recommended to place the mask on top of the eyes instead of securing it to the head.
Additionally, it’s important to use a clean and dry cloth between the mask and the eyes to prevent infection.
Get Enough Rest
Adequate rest is necessary to allow your body time to heal. Be sure to get enough sleep and avoid strenuous activities or exercise that might cause additional strain to your eyes.
Sleep in an upright position or with your head elevated on pillows for the first week or two.
Use Eye Drops, lubricant, and sterile gauze
Your eyes may feel dry and itchy following eyelid surgery. Your surgeon might provide you with eye drops or suggest over-the-counter ointments to keep the eyes lubricated and relieve discomfort.
A special lubricant will help keep your lids and surgical site moist as they heal. Use these products as directed.
It’s good to have sterile gauze pads ready. As the incisions heal, they may leak a little bit, and the gauze can absorb it. When dabbing the incision, be gentle.
Never rub it or the incision sites, as this could cause more harm or tearing. If you frequently rub your eyes, this is a good chance to stop doing so.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Following a healthy, balanced diet rich in nutrients can aid in the healing process.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to provide your body with the necessary nutrients to recover quickly.
It is recommended that individuals consume nourishing, nutrient-dense food while recovering from eyelid surgery.
Anti-inflammatory foods can aid in reducing swelling, while alcohol, refined sugars, processed foods/snacks, and foods high in saturated fats should be avoided.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol, Including Smoky Environments
Smoking and alcohol intake should be avoided entirely during your recovery period as they slow down the healing process, increase blood pressure, and cause dryness and inflammation of the eyes.
Smoking has negative effects on health, which include hindering the recovery process after blepharoplasty.
It can also worsen the wound and raise the likelihood of infection. If smoking cessation didn’t occur before the surgery, we suggest utilizing a patch or gum during the two weeks following the operation.
Reduce or eliminate factors that cause eye fatigue
After your surgery, it’s important to avoid any activities that may strain your eyes for a week. This includes checking the mail, using a computer, reading books or print media, watching TV, or going to the movies.
These activities can trigger dry eyes, which we want to avoid as our eyes heal and become more susceptible to the condition.
Use sun protection
It is recommended that individuals shield their eyes from the sun for the initial two weeks following the procedure.
Protective measures, such as staying in shady areas, wearing full-brimmed hats, and using wrap-around sunglasses, can be effective when spending time outside.
If necessary, your surgeon or eye doctor can provide suggestions for safe sunscreens that can be used around the eyes during this period.
For individuals who enjoy outdoor activities, it is recommended to consider scheduling blepharoplasty during the winter months.
If your occupation requires outdoor work, it may be beneficial to discuss potential schedule adjustments with your employer to minimize sun exposure during the recovery period.
Wear shirts with buttons or zippers
For days after surgery, it is best to wear button-ups or zippered tops as tight elastic necks can irritate the swollen facial tissues.
The swelling usually decreases within the first few days, but care must be taken to ensure that the healing site does not become aggravating.
Keep Your Head Elevated
Keeping your head elevated can help reduce swelling and promote proper healing. You can do this by propping up your head with a few pillows, especially when you are lying down.
Keep in Touch with Your Surgeon
After you leave the hospital or clinic, it is important to stay in touch with your surgeon. They will want to check in with you and make sure that you are healing properly. If you notice any unusual symptoms or complications after your surgery, be sure to contact your surgeon immediately.
Following the aftercare tips given by your surgeon, applying cold compresses, getting enough rest, using eye drops, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking and alcohol can help you recover from eyelid surgery at home.
These simple tips can also help you avoid any complications while reducing swelling and discomfort, allowing you to return to your daily activities faster.
Know more about eyelid aftercare tips by calling us at Sadeghi Center for Plastic Surgery. You can fill out the form as well.