Eyelid Surgery Recovery Tips

Posted January 10, 2017 in Eye Surgery, Eyelid Surgery, Recovery, Uncategorized

The technology and lifestyle of today’s world force us to rely heavily on our sight. Many jobs and activities require looking at computer screens, reading, and scrutinizing details to find traces of error. Because sight is so essential to daily living, individuals who undergo eyelid surgery may be concerned about how to make their recovery go smoothly so that life can return to normal. Here are some useful eyelid surgery recovery tips that can ensure the best recovery experience with the greatest results and fewest complications as possible.

Follow Doctor’s Orders

Whatever you do, follow Dr. Taleisnik’s recommendations during your recovery. He is vastly experienced in performing eyelid surgery and helping patients through the process. Dr. Taleisnik will give you personalized recommendations to help your recovery go smoothly.

Observe All Follow-Up Visits

Do not miss any follow-up visits after your surgery. During your follow-up appointments, Dr. Taleisnik will examine you to evaluate how you are healing and determine if there is any sign of a complication so he can take immediate action if necessary. Missing a postoperative appointment could put you at risk of having an unchecked surgical complication that may later become a serious health issue.

Rely on Loved Ones

You will need a friend or loved one to drive you home after your procedure. Rely on them to help you for the first day or two, as you may have difficulty seeing clearly.

Take 3 to 5 Days Off Work

Plan for at least three to five days off work after your surgery. Bear in mind that while most patients return to work after five days, Dr. Taleisnik may personally recommend more or less time off for you.

Wait to Exercise for 1 to 2 Weeks

Give your body a chance to heal before resuming exercise. It is especially important to avoid contact sports to reduce the risk of damage to your sensitive eye area. After one to two weeks, you should be ready to return to your normal exercise activities.

Reduce Swelling With Cold Compresses and Pillows

During your recovery, you should do what you can to minimize postoperative swelling. Use a cold compress on your eye area for a day or two after surgery, and use pillows to prop your head up while resting or sleeping for at least a week. Reducing swelling can boost and speed up healing.

Give Your Eyes a Break

Avoid eye strain as much as possible over the first week after surgery. Fight the temptation to look your phone, read a book, watch a lot of TV, or spend a long time in the sunlight or well-lit areas. Avoid wearing contacts or putting on eye makeup of any kind. A successful recovery after eyelid surgery is dependent on giving your eyes a break from these daily stressors. Listening to music and audiobooks or spending time with loved ones are good ways to help pass the time as you recover.

Keep Your Eyes Clean and Moist

Dr. Taleisnik will instruct you on how you wash your eyes after surgery. Follow these instructions meticulously to keep your eyes clean as your eyelid tissues heal. If your eyes become itchy or dry, resist the urge to rub them. Eye drops can help keep your eyes moist and free of debris.

Protect Your Eyes

Anytime you go out, wear dark sunglasses and/or special eyewear to protect your eyes from dirt and glaring sunlight. You may also need to wear a special eye mask through the night, especially if you tend to move around or rub your eyes while sleeping. Ask Dr. Taleisnik about wearing sunblock when you go outside.

Eat a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet filled with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients will promote a smooth and quick recovery. Increase your consumption of healthy foods and avoid sugary or fatty vices as your body recuperates.

Take Medications as Needed

Medications are provided for your benefit after eyelid surgery. To reduce the risk of infection, take your antibiotics as instructed. Eyelid surgery is rarely painful, but if you experience discomfort, take pain medications as instructed. Medicine can also help alleviate nausea after general anesthesia. Ask Dr. Taleisnik which medications you should take.

Monitor Your Condition

During recovery, carefully monitor your condition. Check your temperature regularly, as a fever could indicate a sign of an infection. Swelling and bruising are normal and should subside within a few weeks. Pay attention to any unusual signs in how your eyelid tissues look and how you feel. Dr. Taleisnik will give you more details on how to monitor your condition.

As you follow these tips for eyelid surgery recovery, you can help ensure that your recovery goes smoothly and quickly. For more advice or to schedule your eyelid surgery consultation with Dr. Taleisnik, call (714) 538-8549 or complete our online contact form today.