Postoperative care is fundamental to getting the most out of your eyelid plastic surgery. Usually, your surgeon will provide you with a postop instructions document. However, we believe it is important to cover the basic instructions for most eyelid procedures in this blog.
Ice packs are your friend… the first 24 hours.
Cold compresses with gel packs or cold, wet gauze are a great way to curb swelling and keep the area comfortable. But too much ice can also hurt your eyelids. So, it is best to use them for the first day only.
Whatever you do, don’t smoke
Smoking is the worst enemy after any surgical procedure, especially after eyelid plastic procedures. Tobacco restricts oxygen to the tissues and slows down the healing process. You should avoid smoking for at least three days before and after any operation.
Exercise is good, but not during your recovery.
Physical activity is vital to keep your face looking young. However, it will increase swelling and bruising after your eyelid surgery and can also cause wound opening and hematoma formation. Physical activities to avoid during recovery include brisk walks, lifting weights, swimming, and sexual activity, which some patients don’t consider exercise. Follow your surgeons’ instructions regarding physical activity as some procedures require longer down-times.
Please, eat a healthy diet.
A healthy diet rich in vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids and lots of hydration is fundamental for speeding up your recovery. Eat lots of fish, vegetables, and greens, and avoid red meat, refined sugars, and alcohol.
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