Patients who are about to undergo eyelid surgery have high expectations. They’ve secured the best eyelid surgeon and met for a series of informative consultations to assure themselves that their surgeon will give them the best possible results. Unfortunately, if a patient doesn’t follow appropriate recovery advice, they could slow the healing process. Or worse, permanently damage their results. That’s why eyelid surgery recovery tips are so essential.
Before surgery, your eyelid surgeon will go over their recommendations for a speedy and successful recovery. However, if you need a quick reminder, here are the top tips for ensuring that you can protect your eyelids during recovery, giving you the best possible results.
Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions Regarding Medications
Before surgery, you will need to give your surgeon a complete list of any medications you are taking or are likely to take before or after surgery. Don’t be surprised if your surgeon asks you to stop taking blood thinners. These include medications such as Warfarin or over-the-counter drugs such as Aspirin.
If you’re concerned about the possible side-effects of stopping a prescribed medication, consult with your cardiologist or another appropriate specialist. They can inform you of what options you have to allow surgery for safe surgery. Additionally, you may have to take antibiotics following surgery to protect yourself from infection. Any antibiotic prescription should be taken through its complete cycle, according to your surgeon’s instructions.
Keep Any Dressings Clean and Moist
Depending on the nature of your eyelid surgery, you may be required to wear dressings with lubricated ointments and cold compresses immediately after surgery. These are designed to reduce swelling and scarring. So, you must follow your surgeon’s instructions to the letter in this respect.
Their instructions may include the regular applications of medicated or moisturizing ointments. Before application, carefully wash your hands, especially under your fingernails. For added safety, wear gloves to prevent your eyes from being exposed to bacteria. Also, refrain from allowing the physical tube from touching your eye during application.
To protect your eyes from foreign particles, you shouldn’t wear eye make-up or apply cleansers or lotion to the area for the first two weeks.
Eliminate Screen Time for at least One Week
During recovery, it is vital that your eyes stay properly moist. As a result, you should avoid all activities known to contribute to dry eyes for at least one week after surgery. Avoid working on your computer, looking at your phone, watching television, and reading for the first seven days. If you can, extend this period to fourteen days for best results.
Quit Smoking for at Least Sixty Days
If you’re a habitual smoker, then this one can be a hard pill to swallow. Unfortunately, smoking does slow the healing process, making you more susceptible to infections. Even if you firmly plan to return to smoking after, take thirty days before surgery and thirty days after off to ensure proper healing.
Get Plenty of Shut-Eye
After surgery, your body is going to be working hard to heal. You will find that you are more easily tired. If this is the case, take the time to rest. Close your eyes if they feel strained and sleep when you feel tired. Getting enough rest will give your body the tools it needs to slowly reduce swelling and the appearance of scars, allowing you to get back to your life.
Take UV Protection Seriously
Once you’ve had eyelid surgery, the results are permanent as long as you keep aging in check. During your recovery period, it is especially important to wear dark, protective sunglasses that cover the entire orbital area. Bring out your inner Jackie O or Tom Cruise and review AARP’s guide on protective eyewear.
You should continue this habit for the rest of your life. Wearing sunscreen every day, finding a favorite wide-brimmed hat, and using a high-quality eye cream once the healing process is done is another great way to protect your results.
Your Recovery
For the first two weeks after eyelid surgery, there will be some frustration. Your eyes will be red and swollen. However, remember that your eyelid surgeon is an expert in their field. If you diligently follow eye expert Dr. Zoumalan eyelid surgery recovery tips and instructions both before and after surgery, then you can ensure that your results are worth it.
