After a Blepharoplasty or Cosmetic Eye Surgery Surgical Instructions

After a Blepharoplasty or Cosmetic Eye Surgery

What can I expect after surgery?

Your vision may be blurry and you may find it difficult to focus immediately after surgery.  This is due to the drugs administered for anesthesia and the local anesthetic used to “numb” the site for surgery.  However, if you have severe pain behind the eye or vision loss, contact Dr. Johnson immediately.  This is suggestive of a blood clot or hematoma behind the eye.  A very rare but treatable complication that requires immediate attention.  For this reason we ask that our patient be within 30 minutes of my office for the first twenty-four hours.  You may feel tightness around your eyes. Ice compresses will make you feel more comfortable and will reduce swelling and bruising. Please apply ice soaked gauze as frequent as possible.  You will be given a prescription for pain. Bruising varies from one patient to the next: it usually reaches it’s peak 2 to 3 days after surgery and can last anywhere from two weeks to a month. You should wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from wind and sun. Sleeping on your back with your head elevated will reduce swelling. Dr. Johnson will see you at his office the following day, and regular follow-up appointments will be necessary. Sutures will be removed approximately one week after surgery depending on the specific type of blepharoplasty that was performed.

Recovery

As you recover, you can expect to have some bruising and swelling, but you’ll probably see quick improvement. The more closely you follow instructions given by Dr. Johnson and his surgical team, the greater the chance you’ll look better …….sooner. There’s less chance of complications, too. With good healing, you’ll soon feel comfortable back at your regular activities. Dr. Johnson will advise you about returning to work and other activities. Avoid contact sports for one to two weeks and activities that can increase your pulse or blood pressure for a week. This will decrease your risk of bleeding and swelling.

On the mend

Here are some tips to help you heal faster and look better sooner:
  • Sleep on your back and elevate your head to minimize swelling.
  • Use ice compresses during waking hours for three days to reduce bruising and swelling.
  • Use an ointment prescribed by Dr. Johnson if your eyes are dry.
  • Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from wind and sun.
  • Ask Dr. Johnson when you can resume wearing contact lenses and eye make-up.
  • Apply Polysporin® to incisions twice a day.