Post Operative Instructions - Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty

• The anesthesia will make you drowsy for as long as 24 hours. You MUST have someone to drive you home. It would be preferable if they can stay with you for the evening.
• After this procedure, the eyelids are swollen and may show noticeable bruising. Most swelling usually resolves over 2-4 days. Bruising will diminish gradually over 7-10 days. It is possible for one eye to be slightly more bruised or swollen than the other. It is only cause for concern if it is significantly different or if you are experiencing increased discomfort. Please let your surgeon know immediately if this is the case.
• Occasionally, swelling may cause the eyelids to not completely close—this is a normal occurrence. It will resolve when the swelling diminishes. You may use natural tears to help with any dry eyes.
• Tearing or eye irritation, if present, will usually resolve as swelling decreases and eyelids close. You may use natural tear drops to help with this.
• Report any sudden swelling or increased bruising to Dr. Doshi.
• Oozing of small amounts of blood is normal. The cool compresses should be effective in stopping this over the next 2 days. Excessive bleeding should be reported to Dr. Doshi.
• Keeping your head elevated above the level of your heart while laying down will help with swelling.
• There is little to no pain associated with blepharoplasty. You may experience a dull ache and tightness in the eyelids. If your pain increases, please contact your surgeon immediately.
• Do not sleep on your face and try to avoid curling to the side for the first week after surgery.
• Avoid hitting or bumping your face. It is recommended that you do not pick up small children or pets.
• Avoid bending, straining, and heavy lifting for the first week following surgery.
• Avoid strenuous exercise for 4 weeks.
• DO NOT SMOKE for 4 weeks after surgery. Smoking significantly slows the healing process.
• Do not drink alcoholic beverages for 1 week after surgery.
• Medications:
  • Pain medication: Every 4-6 hours, if needed. (Try extra strength Tylenol if you do not need the prescribed pain medication.)
  • Natural Tears: 2 drops to each eye when needed for dry eyes. (Over the counter.)
  • Antibiotics: 1 pill twice daily for 5 days; take the medicine with a meal.
• Frozen peas placed in ziplock bags provide the simplest and most effective cold compress to reduce swelling, discoloration, and discomfort following surgery. During your waking hours, apply the pea packs to your eyes 20 minutes on and off for the first 48 hours following surgery.
  • Always put a cool, wet gauze between your eyes and the ziplock bags. Make sure there is no undue pressure on the eyes from the weight of the peas.
• You can expect slight blurring of vision for a few days due to swelling and the ointment used on the eyes. Any decrease in vision should be reported immediately to Dr. Doshi.
• You may wear eyeglasses immediately; contact lenses should not be used until Dr. Doshi tells you it is safe to do so.
• You may shower 48 hours after surgery and let water/soap run gently over the face. Do not apply pressure to the eyes and pat the face dry after showering. No rubbing the eyes.
• DO NOT WEAR EYE MAKEUP until cleared by Dr. Doshi.
• Avoid excessive TV and computer use, and reading for the first 48 hours after surgery. These activities cause eye fatigue.
• Reduce sun exposure for the first two weeks. Your eyes may be more sensitive to the light.
• Depending on the type of job you have, the average person can return to work 5-7 days following surgery. Make sure to clear this with your surgeon.
• It is particularly important to keep your post-operative appointments. This is necessary for Dr. Doshi to monitor your progress closely.