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TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF AFTER EYELID SURGERY |
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After eyelid surgery expect severe swelling and bruising. Ugly black eyes or shiners are normal due to the trauma of surgery on very thin delicate skin. This can last one to four weeks depending on how you heal.
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Ice packs should be applied as much as possible for at least the first three days after surgery. Two bags of frozen corn or peas should be kept in the freezer. Loosen the frozen corn or peas in the bag by squeezing or banging the bags. When ready for use put a damp paper towel on the wound with your eyes closed. Put the loosened bag over the wet paper towel and press gently for twenty minutes. After twenty minutes are up . take a break for twenty minutes and repeat.
Dr. Kamath will prescribe an antibiotic ointment to apply to the wound(s) four times a day for one week. The ointment should be applied thinly and directly over the stitches. The skin.s heat will melt the ointment and it will be absorbed into the wound to reduce the risk of infection.
Oozing of blood from the wound(s), mucous production and excessive tearing (with a bloody tinge) are normal for the first few days after surgery. DO NOT REMOVE the scab of crusted blood that forms on the wound(s) or stitches. This scab will help smooth and rapid healing. Removing the scab will increase bleeding and delay healing.
If bleeding (as opposed to oozing or trickling of blood) from the wound(s) occurs . apply firm direct pressure with a gauze or tissue for twenty minutes. If the bleeding does not stop, continue to apply pressure and call Dr. Kamath.
Bending, lifting, and straining should be avoided for at least one week after eyelid surgery. The sudden increase in blood pressure from these activities can cause the stitches to rip, the wounds to open and bleeding.
Do not touch (except to apply ice packs or antibiotic ointment) or clean the wounds or the area below the eyebrows and above the cheeks for one week after surgery. This may rip the stitches or open the wounds.
Bathing and showering are encouraged with the above limitations.
If Aspirin, Coumadin or any other blood thinners were stopped before surgery restart them the day after surgery according to your primary care physician.s orders.
Eat a well rounded diet, take vitamins and get good rest for several weeks after surgery to maximize healing. (You should do this anyway!)
Avoid suntanning and sunburning the wounds as this will cause scarring. Wear sunglasses (with UV Protection) and a hat with a visor to protect the eyelids from the sun.
After Dr. Kamath stops the antibiotic ointment, start COCOA BUTTER with VITAMIN E on the wound(s) once or twice a day for six months to help smooth and rapid healing. If you are allergic to either of these preparations . use either one alone.
If there are any problems call Dr. Kamath!
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See also... |
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Eyelid Surgery
Before Surgery
After Surgery
Cataract Surgery
Corneal Transplant Surgery
LASIK
Refractive Surgery
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Suresh G. Kamath, M.D. is a Board Certified Physician and Surgeon. Dr. Kamath specializes in the medical and surgical care of the eye (Ophthalmology), eyelids and skin (Eye or Oculoplastic Surgery).
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