Post-Operative Instructions

The following instructions should be followed closely except when overruled by specific procedural instructions. You must follow your surgeon’s instructions as indicated for your specific surgery. Please notify AestheticEye Oculoplastic Surgeons of any unusual changes in your condition and feel free to call the office with any questions. 

1. You MUST have an adult drive you home from the facility. You will not be allowed to drive yourself or use public transportation.
2. After surgery, you must have a responsible adult stay with you for a minimum of 24 hours.
3. The effects of anesthesia can persist for up to 24 hours. You must exercise caution before engaging in any activity that could be harmful to yourself or others.
4. Drink plenty of fluids to help rid your body of the drugs used in surgery.
5. Avoid the use of alcoholic beverages for the first 24 hours and while pain medications are being used.
6. Take only medications that have been prescribed by AestheticEye Oculoplastic Surgeons for your postoperative care and take them according to the instructions on the bottle. Pain medications may make you feel “spacey,” therefore, it’s best for someone else to give you these medications and ensure the appropriate timeline is being followed.
7. If you experience any general itching, wheezing, rash or tightness in the throat, stop taking all medications and contact AestheticEye Oculoplastic Surgeons immediately.
8. Keep any dressings ON, CLEAN and DRY. Do not remove them until you are instructed to do so.
9. Minimal activity for the first 48 hours.
10. Cold Compress: Apply cold compresses (e.g., ice packs or chilled gauze) for 2 to 3 days after surgery to reduce swelling and bruising—discontinue at bedtime.
11. Head Elevation: Sleep with your head elevated on 2-3 pillows to minimize swelling for 5 days.
12. Minimal Activity: Avoid bending over, lifting heavy objects, or straining for 1-2 WEEKS post operation.
13. Showering: You may shower 1-2 days after surgery but avoid direct water pressure on your face.
14. No Rubbing or Touching: Avoid rubbing, touching, or applying pressure to your eyes.
15. No Makeup or Contacts: Avoid makeup, false eyelashes, and contact lenses for at least 14 days.
16. Limit sun exposure—wear sunglasses and sunscreen if going outside.
17. No smoking for two weeks or alcohol for 24 hours and pain medication is being used, as they delay healing.
18. You can expect:
    1. Swelling & Bruising: Peaks within 48 hours, gradually subsides over 1–2 weeks.
    2. Mild Discomfort or Dry Eyes are common. Use artificial tears if needed.
    3. Tightness or Numbness are common and temporary.
    4. Slight oozing from wound edges.
    5. Possible bloodshot eyes.
19. Call our office if you experience any of the following:
    1. Excessive swelling or worsening pain after 48 hours that isn’t remedied with pain medication.
    2. Sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, or excessive bleeding from the incision.
    3. Signs of infection: Redness, warmth, pus, or fever over 100.4°F.
20. As time goes by and you are healing, the following guidelines apply:
    1. Patients return to work 7 to 10 days following surgery depending on the type of work done.
    2. All normal activities may be resumed approximately 2 weeks post op