Eyelid surgery aftercare & post-op instructions

Getting plastic surgery for eyes is a life-changing decision for those who want to enhance the appearance of their eyes. However, the success of the plastic surgery not only lies in the hands of your surgeon but also the patients. Yes, we are talking about eyelid surgery aftercare – how you should care for your eyes after your surgery.

Because only when you properly care for your eyes after surgery and heal well, will you then have satisfactory results from your surgery. In this article, we will give you a comprehensive guide on what to expect after your eyelid surgery, post-op instructions and tips on eyelid surgery aftercare. Recover well, heal quick, and enjoy the results of your eye surgery.

What to expect after eyelid surgery

1. Sensitivity to light

Your eyes will be sensitive to light immediately after surgery, so wear sunglasses during your trip home. This sensitivity may last for a few weeks. Hence, avoid direct contact of the sun with your eyes as much as possible.

2. Blurred vision

You may experience excessive tearing, dry eyes, and double or blurred vision for the first few days. However, this is temporary and should go away in no time.

3. Bruising & swelling

Expect major bruising and swelling for at least 2~3 weeks. This includes swelling of eyelids, tightness of eyelids, bruising, dryness, burning and itching of your eyes. Typically, about 70% of the bruising and swelling is lost within a week, and 80% in 2 weeks.

4. Healing & recovery process

Typically, bruising (on and around your eye areas) can go from blue to purple to yellow. Some patients have the whites of their eye turn red or pink, but it is common and will go away. And sometimes, eyelids may not close all the way immediately after surgery. But don’t worry, it is not unusual and will improve rapidly.

5. Medicines & ointment

You will be prescribed with painkillers, stomach liners, and antibiotic ointment (to apply on your eyes) after your surgery. Medications should be taken 3 times a day for 5~7 days or as instructed by your surgeon. Ointment should be applied as a thin layer on the incision area 3 times a day. It may cause blurry visions that will go away within 24 hrs. However, if your skin becomes red, itchy, and more irritated after applying the ointment, it could be an allergic reaction, so contact your surgeon immediately.

6. Eye patch

If you are sent home after surgery with an eye patch on your eyes, leave it on until you are told to take it off. Do get someone to take you home after your surgery.

Eyelid surgery aftercare & post-op instructions

1. Do not rub, pull or put pressure on your eyes until your wounds have fully recovered.
2. Do not smoke or be around a smoker for at least 3 weeks. Smoking slows down healing and increases the risk of infection of your wounds.
3. Keep your head elevated and sit upright as much as possible to help minimize swelling.
4. Sleeping and resting with your head raised on 2~3 pillows can help minimize swelling.
5. Do not wipe or clean the incision and eye area until stitches are removed. Water can affect sutures, and possibly reopen the incision.
6. No full showers until stitches are removed. Getting the surgical area wet can lead to irritation, inflammation, and a higher risk of infection.
7. Apply cold compress or icepacks on your eyelids to help reduce swelling. Preferably for 10~15 mins, as and when possible.
8. Avoid facial massages, saunas and laser procedures (e.g. LPL, fraser laser etc.) for at least 1 month.

Exercise advice

• Avoid strenuous exercises such as aerobics, jogging, swimming, weight lifting, biking and intercourse for at least 3 weeks.
• Avoid bending over and activities that will raise your blood pressure.
• Take lots of light walks in the park as it helps reduce swelling, lower the chance of developing blood clots, and avoid constipation.

Food & drink advice

• Abstain from alcohol for at least 3 weeks as it thins your blood which causes prolonged bleeding or infections.
• Avoid salty foods for at least 2 weeks as it contribute to fluid retention and swelling.
• Reduce caffeine and carbonated drinks intake for the first few days.
• Eat a well-balanced diet and drink lots of fluids (water and fresh juices).
• Eat plenty of fruits and fresh vegetables to avoid constipation.

Medication advice

• Do not take aspirin or any products containing aspirin unless instructed by your surgeon.
• Avoid using any over-the-counter ointments unless recommended by your surgeon.
• If you have regular medication (eg. blood pressure or hypertension medication etc.), consult your surgeon on when you can resume taking them.
• Take your medications regularly as instructed by your surgeon.
• Do not take your medications on an empty stomach.
• Apply the prescribed ointment with a Q-tip or clean fingers.

Makeup & contact lens advice

• Do not wear contact lens for at least 2 weeks. Best if you can avoid it for a month.
• Do not apply any lotion or creams on your eye area for at least 2 weeks.
• No eye makeup for at least 2 weeks as it will increase risk of infection and permanent discoloration of skin.

Extra eyelid surgery aftercare tips for speedy recovery

1. Don’t stress your eyes

Avoid activities that will stress or cause dry eyes for at least 1 week. Yes, unfortunately, that includes reading a book, staring at your computer, or watching a full season of your Korean dramas on TV. So, just relax and try not to use your eyes if you want a speedy recovery.

2. Eat a well-balanced diet

This means lots of fruits and vegetables, but not forgetting your meats. And stay away from sweets and processed food, obviously. Fruits such as pineapples, berries and apples are known to help reduce swelling. Vegetables, especially dark leafy greens like spinach and broccoli, and meats, preferably white meats, help expedite healing and fight infections.

3. Sleep, sleep & sleep

Healing requires a lot of energy, so you’ll probably feel more tired than usual. Take lots of naps and sleep early at night. In fact, having a good night’s sleep is one of the best ways to accelerate your recovery process.

4. Avoid sunlight

Avoid sunlight to your eyes for at least 3 months. Always wear your sunglasses or use a strong sunblock with a high SPF.

5. Dress comfortably

Wear comfortable and loose clothing such as garments that do not need to be pulled over your head lest you accidentally hit or injure your wounds.

6. 16 things to avoid after eyelid surgery

Get extra special tips and details on what to avoid after eyelid surgery to help quicken your eyelid recovery process.

Seek medical advice asap if you experience: