BLEPHAROPLASTY (EYELID SURGERY)

POST-OPERATIVE AFTER CARE INSTRUCTIONS

​Tony L. Weaver, DO, FACS
Board-Certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
Office Phone: 256-817-6153
Text Line (Non-Urgent Questions): 256-434-7520

“I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,” declares the Lord.
— Jeremiah 30:17
Proper after-care is essential for safe healing and optimal results following eyelid surgery. Please read these instructions carefully and follow them closely.


What to Expect

• Swelling and bruising around the eyes are normal and typically peak at 48–72 hours
  
  
• Mild tightness, dryness, tearing, or blurred vision may occur temporarily
  
  
• Some early asymmetry is expected during healing
  
  
• Final results continue to improve over 6–12 weeks
  

Eye & Incision Care

• Cold compresses:
  Apply cold compresses or gel eye packs for 15–20 minutes every hour while awake for the first 48 hours
  (Do not place ice directly on the skin)
  
  
• Keep incisions clean and dry
  
  
• Apply prescribed ophthalmic antibiotic ointment to incisions as directed
  (Temporary blurry vision is common while using ointment)
  
  
• Use lubricating artificial tears as needed for dryness
  
  
• Do not rub, pull, or stretch the eyelids
  
  

Activity Restrictions

• Rest with your head elevated (2–3 pillows) for the first 7 days
  
  
• Avoid bending over, heavy lifting, straining, or vigorous activity for 10–14 days
  
  
• Walking is encouraged starting the day after surgery
  
  
• Avoid activities that significantly increase blood pressure to the face
  
  
  

Medications

• Take prescribed pain medication as directed
  (Most patients only require acetaminophen)
  
  
  
• Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or other NSAIDs unless specifically approved
  
  
  
• Avoid supplements that increase bleeding risk (fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic)
  
  ​

Vision & Eye Protection

• Temporary blurry vision may occur due to swelling or ointment
  
  
  
• Wear dark sunglasses when outdoors
  
  
  
• Avoid wind, dust, smoke, and direct sun exposure
  
  
  
• No contact lenses until cleared (typically 10–14 days)
  

Hygiene & Cosmetics

• You may shower the day after surgery
  (Avoid direct water pressure on the eyes)
  
  
  
• Gently pat dry — do not rub
  
  
  
• No eye makeup until cleared (usually 10–14 days)
  
  
  
• Avoid facials, lash treatments, or brow services until approved
  
  
  

Sleep Position

• Sleep on your back with head elevated
  
  
  
• Avoid side or stomach sleeping for at least 1 week
  
  
  

Sutures

• Sutures are typically removed 5–7 days after surgery if not absorbable
  
  
  

Call the Office Immediately If You Experience:

• Increasing pain not relieved by medication
  
  
  
• Sudden vision changes or loss of vision
  
  
  
• Excessive swelling, firmness, or bleeding
  
  
  
• Signs of infection (fever, worsening redness, drainage)
  
  
  

For urgent concerns, call the office directly. For emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.