Recovery Tips For Eyelid Surgery
Following an eyelid surgery, all patients experience a few aftereffects. In this post, Drs. Joseph King and Gabriel Chu of Fraser Valley Cataract & Laser provide tips to handling these effects and encouraging a speedy recovery. They will help you along the way, overseeing your recovery over the span of six weeks following surgery. Read on to learn more.
What Is A Typical Recovery And How Long Will It Take?
The most common aftereffect of eyelid surgery is swelling of both the upper and lower lids, which can be controlled using ice packs. Bruising is also quite common and may take up to two weeks to fully heal. The surgeon will typically use dissolving sutures to stitch up the incisions, and these stitches will fall out on their own. An anti-inflammatory cream and an antibiotic ointment will be prescribed to accelerate the healing process.
How Can I Speed My Recovery?
After your eyelid surgery, your behavior can have a powerful effect on your recovery time. Your goal should be to minimize both swelling and bruising. Eyelids are inherently soft, movable tissue. Ideally, your surgeon would be able to avoid visible bruising, but some swelling and irritation is unavoidable. In the two to three days immediately following surgery, one should keep their head elevated at all times. Ice packs should be applied to the face as a mild cold therapy. This will help reduce both swelling and inflammation. While bruising is extremely common, any bleeding in the first 48 hours should be reported to your physician. To avoid bleeding, try to minimize head and eyelid movement. Because reading, surfing the internet, and watching TV involve eye and eyelid movement, patients would be well advised to seek other means of entertainment. Listening to music, audiobooks, and podcasts are the most popular activities for recovering patients.
Can My Diet and Medications Affect My Recovery?
Yes, diet can be a factor in recovery time. Some patients choose to consult with a nutritionist prior to surgery to develop a post-operative eating plan. A high amount of salt in one’s diet can exacerbate swelling, so going low-sodium for a few days is a good idea. Bruising may increase if one takes too much fish oil supplements. Aspirin may have a negative effect on your bruising as well. Your surgeon may proscribe medications designed to speed recovery. Be sure to consult with your doctor regarding any other medications you may be taking, as these meds may slow recovery. Learn about our address and contact details for the following locations:
- Ophthalmologist Surrey services
- Ophthalmologist Coquitlam address
- Ophthalmologist Abbotsford contact details
If you suspect that you may have an eye disorder like Blepharoplasty or could benefit from cosmetic eye surgery for medical purposes contact us to learn more.
Read more about your options with laser vision correction and learn about the Lasik MD surrey location details. Laser eye surgery is available at all of our locations at Fraser Valley Cataract and Laser. Book your eye doctors consultation now!
Contact Fraser Valley Cataract and Laser
Dr. Chu and Dr. King will be happy to answer all of these questions and any others you may have during your initial consultation. Be sure to bring your notepad, iPad or laptop with you so that you can record all of the information provided. To set up your consultation, please call (604) 372-3937.
