Blepharoplasty, or cosmetic eyelid surgery, is a procedure that involves removal of excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper or lower eyelids. There are other more technical aspects of the surgery which can be covered in greater detail with your oculoplastic surgeon. This surgery gives the eyes a more youthful and refreshed appearance. To learn more about what the procedure entails, check out our article on what to expect from blepharoplasty.
It is crucial to adhere to the post-operative instructions provided by your eye surgery doctor after undergoing blepharoplasty in order to promote good recovery and avoid any complications. We will go over some of the most significant post-blepharoplasty aftercare tips in this article.
Avoid direct application of cosmetic and skincare products
The first aftercare tip to take note of would be to avoid using cosmetic and skincare products directly on the incisions, as many of these products contain chemicals that has the potential to irritate the wounds. Infection, skin irritability, and other difficulties with healing might result from the use of these products. You may resume applying makeup and skincare products only a few weeks after surgery and only upon receiving the green light from your oculoplastic surgeon. During this time, other ointments will be provided for use directly on the wounds.
Avoid alcohol and smoking
Alcohol intake and smoking might impede recovery from surgery. For the first few weeks after surgery, it is vital to stay away from alcohol and smoking to reduce the risk of issues such as excess swelling and increased bruising.
Take your medications
Hardly any pain is felt following blepharoplasty. However, swelling is to be expected. To minimise symptoms and avoid infection, your oculoplastic surgeon is likely to prescribe mild painkillers and antibiotics. It is important to take these medications as prescribed by your surgeon.
Apply cold compresses
Cold compresses on the operated eyelids can assist in minimising post-operative swelling. During the post-blepharoplasty period, consider applying cold sterile cotton gauzes wet with chilled normal saline on the eyelids for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Your Ava Eye Clinic Care team will assist in providing more detailed instructions following your eyelid surgery.
Avoid long hot showers
The use of saunas, steam rooms, and prolonged hot showers must also be avoided because they may increase the risk of infection. During showers, patients need to be careful and keep their wounds dry. The wounds should only be cleaned with sterile normal saline. Your Ava Eye Clinic Care team will assist in providing more detailed instructions following your eyelid surgery.
Sleep with head elevated
It is recommended that one sleeps with the head elevated above the level of the heart. This will help lessen swelling around the eyes and promote faster healing.
Avoid strenuous activities
After the surgery, it would be best to take a few weeks off from doing anything physically demanding. Strenuous activities increase blood flow to the eyes, which could result in more swelling and bleeding. It is also best to avoid outdoor activities especially in hot, humid climates, as sweat and heat could result in a higher risk of wound infection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that gives eyes a more youthful and refreshed appearance. Following blepharoplasty eyelid surgery in Singapore, it is crucial to adhere to your surgeon’s post-operative instructions as well as these aftercare suggestions to promote good healing and prevent any issues. Be sure to speak with your surgeon if you have any queries or worries regarding your post-blepharoplasty treatment.
Here at Ava Eye Clinic, we offer general ophthalmology services for all ages, including double eyelid surgery, droopy eyelid correction in Singapore and more. Book an appointment with our eye specialist doctor today!