If you are considering a blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery, you might not know what to expect. For one, the eye area is more sensitive than the rest of the body, and a first-time surgery patient might be understandably worried about the procedure, healing, and recovery. Here are some things to keep in mind when you want to undergo this type of plastic surgery.
Avoid strenuous activities right after surgery
In the first few weeks after your eyelid surgery, you have to refrain from engaging in intense activities, especially ones held outdoors. Do not expose your eyelid incision lines to sunlight; exposure could affect your scar formation and cause it to turn out in unexpected ways.
Do not over-strain your eyes, either. When you tire your eyes out, they might feel a little tight as they heal. Avoid reading or watching videos for long periods of time while you are recovering. Use sunglasses when going outdoors to avoid foreign bodies from irritating your eyes.
For a few days, sleep with your head elevated
Keep your head elevated with a couple of pillows for a few days. Doing this will minimize the swelling. If you have an inclined foam wedge, you could use that under a single pillow. Some mattresses have an elevation function; if yours does, you could use that instead of pillows or a foam wedge.
Apply a cold compress to the eyelid area
Using a cold compress can minimize swelling and bruising and ease your discomfort; compresses reduce your nerve endings’ sensitivity. Remember to ask your plastic surgeon how to place your compress on the skin to prevent ice burns.
Note as well that your plastic surgeon will have specific instructions for using ice compresses. Do not go against them; your plastic surgeon knows your skin and your case best and will give you directions customized for you. If you’re feeling discomfort, report it to your plastic surgeon immediately.
Follow your surgeon’s instructions for eyelid skin
A plastic surgeon might instruct you to use eye drops to prevent burning or itching or keep your eyes from becoming too dry. He can also prescribe a cream or solution that prevents infections. Avoid touching your incision lines or sutures.
Protect your eyes while outside and use dark sunglasses
The skin around your eyes is thin and prone to sun damage even without surgery. Right after an eyelid surgery your sensitivity to UV light may increase for a couple of weeks. If you are going outside, wear dark sunglasses with a protective coating against UV rays and dab SPF 30 sunblock on your lids. Do this even if you’re only sitting next to a window or driving in a closed vehicle.
Being in a car exposes you to a lot of sunlight. In general, sun exposure can be intensified in unexpected ways; you can still catch some rays reflected in pool water, for instance! When using sunblock to prevent sun rays, clear it with your plastic surgeon first; he/she is the best person to ask if you are ready for eye creams and products.
Conclusion
A blepharoplasty is a quick procedure, but its proximity to the eyes makes aftercare a little more involved. When you’re waiting for eyelid surgery to heal, avoid staying out in the sun. The skin around the eyes is sensitive to sunlight, and your lids will not properly heal if they suffer from sun damage.
At Peninsula Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery, we care for patients long after the completion of the procedure. Our team of specialists provides plastic surgery in Torrance, CA, blending innovation with time-tested practices. Contact us today for more information!
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