First off, it is necessary to point out that the few weeks following an eyelid surgery are not exactly simple for the patients who, more often than not, have no idea what to expect. This is why you should do your homework and choose a clinic or a supportive physician with great communication skills. Otherwise, you could end up engaging in contraindicated practices that will make matters worse and prolong the healing and recuperating process. Let’s explore what you should and shouldn’t do after a blepharoplasty procedure.
Right after the procedure
- Since it is very likely that you will experience swelling, apply cold compresses as much as possible before you go to bed.
- In the eventuality that you feel mild pain and discomfort, then take the Tylenol recommended by your physician and steer clear of aspirin and ibuprofen-based analgesics.
- In case you notice bruising and a small amount of blood above your eye, then do not panic because this is normal. However, if you cannot stop the bleeding by applying pressure in the area, then it is advisable to see a doctor.
- If you have to use an antibiotic ointment, then you should apply it with your fingers rather than the Q-tip.
The next day
- On the following morning the swelling will typically reach its peak, so again do not fret if you notice inflammation, bruising and possible blood.
- Unless your physician has recommended utilizing cold compresses for several days, the next day you should switch to warm compresses.
- Even though the area is not very painful, performing certain activities such as reading or working on the computer could be slightly difficult in the next several days.
- Irrespective of the fact that you are wearing a bandage, you should check that your incision is clean from time to time. Cleansing the affected area is not very difficult and it usually implies applying a gauze or Q-tip.
The rest of the recuperation period
- After a few days, the incision is most likely starting to close and hence, it is time to start cleaning the sutures. In case you notice that some of them untie or have broken, you have nothing to worry about if that section of the incision is also closed. On a side note, the sutures are normally removed after four or six days following the procedure.
- Although it may appear scary, you should know there are high chances that you will not be able to fully close your eyelids for approximately three weeks after the blepharoplasty. However, in the event that this issue causes irritations and dry eyes, you should ask your physician to prescribe you with an artificial tear preparation solution.
- Similar to numerous other surgical interventions, it is perfectly natural to feel the incision tender and itchy for the next few months. In fact, these sensations are actually an indicator that the skin is starting to heal.
- If you are accustomed to putting on makeup regularly, then keep in mind that you can only apply it on your eyelids approximately ten days after the surgery.
