Recovery tips after getting an eyelid surgery

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Blepharoplasty, or more commonly known as eyelid surgery, requires at least 4 to 6 weeks of recovery. There are certain restrictions and expectations adjusted during the recovery period, and it is important to follow all directions from your surgeon and attend post-op check-ups to ensure that the healing process is going well. Here are some tips to heal faster after eyelid surgery.

Have ice packs and pillows ready at home. Once you’re settled in your home or recovery area, stock on ice packs to reduce swelling. Elevating your head reduces the swelling, and pillows can help you achieve the level of comfort and elevation that you need.

Use eye drops to ease dry eyes. Your surgeon will most likely prescribe eye drops for when your eyes become dry post-surgery. Have the drops next to you at all times as you recover and use mild, hypoallergenic baby soap to wash sutures.

Don’t wear contacts. Until your doctor gives you the go signal, don’t wear contact lens for at least 6 weeks post-operation.

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Avoid alcohol and smoking tobacco. Alcohol and tobacco delay the healing process. Taking medication not prescribed by your doctor is also a bad idea, as it could hinder or complicate the effects of the post-op medication you are taking.

Alton Ingram, MD is a reconstructive and plastic surgeon, focusing his practice on all cosmetic and reconstructive surgery except craniofacial. Currently based in Nashville, Tennessee, Dr. Alton Ingram is a member of the American Medical Association, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, and Tennessee Medical Association. For more articles like this, visit this page.

How To Take Care Of The Skin After Plastic Surgery

Perhaps the most important stage of cosmetic surgery is the recovery stage since it takes an ample amount of time for the skin to heal itself and this is when it is at its most vulnerable. As such, it’s very important that people take care of their skin during the recovery period. Here are few tips on how to do it.

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Block the sun.

While patients are urged to stay out of the sun while recovering from cosmetic surgery, sometimes, it’s inevitable that they need to leave the house during the day. During this time, sunscreen is enough to do the job. Choose products with SPF 30 or 40. Don’t go higher as those kinds of sunscreen tend to block pores.

Stay hydrated.

Staying hydrated during recovery is very important. Be sure to drink the usual six to eight glasses daily. This helps skin heal from underneath, and it also expels toxins from the body through urination. Stay away from alcohol as it dehydrates the body.

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Follow the doctor’s order.

When surgeons prescribe meds, the prescription usually comes with instructions. There is no room for interpretation with this. It should be followed explicitly. For face cleansers, mild, hypoallergenic products and natural moisturizers should do the trick.

Alton Ingram, M.D.’s practice focuses on reconstructive and cosmetic surgery.  He is also involved with several nonprofit organizations, including Operation Smile, Doctors Without Borders, and Habitat for Humanity.  More articles on cosmetic surgery can be found here .