If you are interested in refining saggy, droopy eyelids for a fresher and more rested appearance, you may consider blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery). By removing excess skin and fat and tightening the muscles, eyelid surgery will rejuvenate the appearance of your eyelids, giving your face a more pleasant and youthful expression.
After undergoing eyelid surgery, plan to allocate a few weeks to your recovery. During this time, you must take precautions and avoid certain activities or behaviors that could compromise your healing eyelids and add to your recovery timeline. Read on as Dr. Jonathan Grant and the team at Cascade Facial Surgery & Aesthetics reveal three things that are off-limits after eyelid surgery.
1. Smoking
Smoking affects how your body heals from surgery. It slows down your recovery timeline and it puts you at risk of serious complications. If you smoke, you will be asked to quit several weeks prior to surgery and you should refrain from smoking after surgery, too.
2. Anything That Puts Pressure on Your Eyelids
The eyelids are naturally delicate and even more so after surgery. Avoid rubbing them, pressing on them or performing any other activity that stretches or puts pressure on them. Be gentle when washing your face or showering, and avoid getting them wet. When applying ointment or other topical medications prescribed by Dr. Grant, use a gentle touch and don’t rub it on. Refrain from wearing eye makeup or contacts (wear glasses instead) for at least one to two weeks after surgery.
3. Anything That Could Increase Blood Flow to Your Eyes
For approximately two to four weeks after eyelid surgery, you must avoid any activity that could increase blood flow to your eyes, as it can lead to complications such as excessive bleeding, swelling and infection. In fact, certain vigorous activities could even cause the surgical wound(s) to reopen.
Refrain from strenuous exercise like running, jumping or aerobics (walking is fine). Also, be careful to avoid everyday activities such as lifting heavy items, bending over or lying flat, which can increase blood flow to your eyes or put pressure on your healing lids. Keep your head elevated during your recovery, including while you sleep — you can sleep on two pillows to keep your head above your chest.
Questions About Recovering From Surgery? Call Us Today
Dr. Grant and our team are the best resources for questions and concerns that arise during the recovery period. If you have questions about the recovery instructions you’ve received, or you develop a symptom that concerns you, we are here to help. You can reach us by calling (360) 336-1947 or sending us an email.
