Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a popular procedure designed to improve the appearance of the eyes by removing excess skin, fat, or muscle. While the surgery itself is relatively quick, the recovery process plays a significant role in achieving the best possible results. Many patients focus on what they should do after surgery, but understanding what not to do after eyelid surgery is just as important.
Ignoring post-operative care guidelines can lead to complications such as excessive swelling, prolonged bruising, or even infection. Simple actions like rubbing the eyes, engaging in strenuous activities, or exposing the healing skin to sunlight can negatively impact the outcome. Additionally, lifestyle choices such as smoking or consuming alcohol can slow down the recovery process and increase the risk of complications.
At Aesthetic Surgical Associates, Dr. Metzinger emphasizes the importance of proper recovery practices to ensure smooth healing and optimal cosmetic results. Knowing what to avoid after eyelid surgery will not only help reduce discomfort but also prevent unnecessary risks that could compromise the final outcome. This guide will cover the most critical things you must not do after eyelid surgery, helping you recover safely and enjoy long-lasting, beautiful results.
Do Not Rub or Touch Your Eyes
One of the most important things to avoid after eyelid surgery is rubbing or touching your eyes. The eyelid area is extremely delicate after surgery, and even gentle pressure can interfere with the healing process. Rubbing your eyes can cause unnecessary irritation, increase swelling, and potentially reopen the incisions. This can lead to prolonged healing, discomfort, and even scarring.
The first few days after surgery, it is common to experience mild itching, tightness, or a dry sensation in the eyes. However, touching or scratching the area can introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. Instead of rubbing, patients can use preservative-free artificial tears to relieve dryness or irritation. If itching becomes bothersome, applying a cool compress gently around—not directly on—the eyes may help reduce discomfort.
During recovery, it is also crucial to be mindful of accidental contact with the eyelids. Avoid sleeping on your side or stomach, as this can put pressure on the healing area. Be cautious when washing your face and applying skincare products to prevent accidental pulling or tugging at the incisions.
Following Dr. Metzinger’s post-operative instructions carefully will help prevent complications. By avoiding unnecessary contact with your eyes, you allow the surgical site to heal properly, reducing swelling and minimizing the risk of infection or delayed recovery.
Avoid Strenuous Activities and Exercise
One of the most critical mistakes patients make after eyelid surgery is resuming physical activity too soon. Strenuous exercise, including running, weightlifting, or high-intensity workouts, increases blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to excessive swelling, bruising, and even post-operative bleeding. This can significantly delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
In the first two weeks after eyelid surgery, it is essential to avoid any activity that causes strain or increases circulation to the face. Even routine actions like bending over, lifting heavy objects, or engaging in vigorous household chores can put unnecessary pressure on the healing eyelids. Patients should prioritize rest and allow their body to recover without unnecessary stress.
For those eager to remain active, light walking is generally safe after the first few days. Walking promotes circulation and helps prevent blood clots without compromising the delicate healing process. However, any activity that causes sweating should be avoided, as perspiration can irritate the incision site and increase the risk of infection.
Dr. Metzinger advises patients to wait at least four weeks before resuming intense workouts or activities that elevate heart rate. By avoiding strenuous exercise during early recovery, patients can minimize complications and ensure a smooth healing process, leading to the best possible results from their eyelid surgery.
Do Not Bend Over or Lift Heavy Objects
Bending over or lifting heavy objects after eyelid surgery may seem harmless, but it can significantly impact recovery. These movements increase blood pressure in the head and eyes, which can lead to increased swelling, prolonged bruising, and even post-operative bleeding. Patients should be cautious with daily activities to prevent unnecessary strain on the healing eyelids.
Why you should avoid bending and lifting after eyelid surgery:
- Bending forward increases blood flow to the face, worsening swelling and discomfort.
- Lifting heavy objects puts strain on the body, which can interfere with healing.
- Sudden movements may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially if pain medication is still in use.
Safe alternatives during recovery:
- Instead of bending, kneel down slowly while keeping your head elevated.
- Ask for help with lifting groceries, laundry, or other heavy items.
- Use a grabber tool or place frequently used objects within easy reach.
Dr. Metzinger recommends avoiding bending and heavy lifting for at least two weeks to allow the eyelids to heal properly. By following these precautions, patients can reduce the risk of complications and ensure a smoother recovery after eyelid surgery.
Stay Away from Heat and Sun Exposure
After eyelid surgery, the skin around the eyes is highly sensitive and more vulnerable to damage. Exposure to heat and direct sunlight can worsen swelling, increase discomfort, and even cause long-term pigmentation changes or scarring. Protecting the healing eyelids from excessive warmth and UV rays is essential for a smooth recovery.
Why heat and sun exposure should be avoided:
- Direct sunlight can cause hyperpigmentation or darkening of scars, making them more noticeable.
- Heat from saunas, steam rooms, and hot showers can worsen inflammation and prolong swelling.
- UV exposure increases the risk of delayed healing and skin irritation in the delicate eyelid area.
How to protect your eyelids during recovery:
- Stay indoors or in shaded areas, especially during peak sunlight hours between 10 AM and 4 PM.
- Wear large sunglasses with UV protection to shield the eyes from direct sunlight.
- Use a wide-brimmed hat when going outside for extra protection.
- Avoid hot environments like saunas, steam rooms, and overly warm showers for at least two weeks.
- Once cleared by Dr. Metzinger, apply a gentle, fragrance-free sunscreen around the eyes to prevent sun damage.
Patients should be especially cautious in the first month after surgery, as the healing skin is more prone to sun sensitivity. By staying away from excessive heat and UV exposure, patients can protect their results and ensure a smooth recovery.
Do Not Wear Makeup or Contact Lenses Too Soon
Wearing makeup or contact lenses too soon after eyelid surgery can lead to irritation, infection, and delayed healing. The surgical area is highly sensitive, and introducing foreign substances can interfere with the recovery process. Patients should allow their eyelids to heal fully before resuming their normal beauty routine.
Why makeup and contact lenses should be avoided:
- Makeup, especially mascara and eyeliner, can introduce bacteria to the healing incisions, increasing the risk of infection.
- Removing eye makeup requires rubbing or pulling on the eyelids, which can disrupt stitches and delay healing.
- Contact lenses require touching the eyes, which can irritate the surgical site and cause unnecessary strain on the eyelids.
When it’s safe to resume makeup and contact lens use:
- Most surgeons, including Dr. Metzinger, recommend waiting at least two weeks before applying eye makeup.
- Contact lenses should be avoided for two to three weeks, depending on the healing process.
- If needed, prescription glasses can be worn immediately after surgery without affecting recovery.
Patients should consult with their surgeon before reintroducing makeup or contact lenses. By waiting the appropriate amount of time, they can reduce the risk of complications and protect their surgical results.
Avoid Alcohol and Smoking
Alcohol and smoking are two of the biggest factors that can negatively impact healing after eyelid surgery. Both can interfere with the body’s natural recovery process, leading to complications such as prolonged swelling, delayed wound healing, and a higher risk of infection. Patients should avoid these substances before and after surgery to ensure a smooth recovery.
Why alcohol should be avoided
- It affects blood clotting, which can increase bruising and post-operative bleeding.
- It causes dehydration, slowing down healing and worsening discomfort.
- Mixing alcohol with pain medications can lead to dizziness or nausea.
Why smoking is harmful during recovery
- It reduces oxygen flow to the healing tissues, making recovery slower.
- It weakens the immune system, increasing the chance of infection.
- It affects scar formation, potentially leading to poor cosmetic results.
When it’s safe to resume alcohol and smoking
- Alcohol should be avoided for at least one to two weeks after surgery to prevent complications.
- Smoking should ideally be stopped entirely, but if necessary, it should be avoided for at least four weeks before and after surgery to support healing.
By eliminating alcohol and smoking during the recovery period, patients can minimize risks, improve healing, and achieve the best possible results from their eyelid surgery.
Do Not Skip Medications or Post-Op Appointments
Following post-operative instructions is essential for a smooth recovery after eyelid surgery. One of the most common mistakes patients make is skipping prescribed medications or missing follow-up appointments. Both are critical for monitoring healing, preventing complications, and ensuring the best possible results.
Why medications should not be skipped
- Antibiotics help prevent infections that could delay healing or cause complications.
- Pain medication reduces discomfort, making it easier to rest and recover.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs help control swelling and bruising, promoting faster healing.
Even if the eyelids appear to be healing well, stopping medication too soon can increase the risk of infection or unnecessary discomfort. Patients should take all prescribed medications exactly as instructed by their surgeon.
Importance of attending follow-up appointments
- The surgeon checks for signs of infection, poor healing, or other complications.
- Stitches may need to be removed at a specific time to avoid scarring.
- Any concerns or unusual symptoms can be addressed early before they become serious.
Dr. Metzinger advises patients to attend all scheduled follow-ups, even if everything seems fine. Missing an appointment means potential complications could go unnoticed, leading to delayed healing or an unsatisfactory outcome. By staying consistent with medications and checkups, patients can ensure a safe and successful recovery.
What Happens If You Ignore These Guidelines?
Ignoring post-operative care instructions after eyelid surgery can lead to serious complications, delaying recovery and affecting the final results. Even small mistakes, like rubbing the eyes or engaging in strenuous activities too soon, can create problems that are difficult to correct.
Common complications from poor aftercare
- Increased swelling and bruising – Ignoring activity restrictions or failing to keep the head elevated can cause excessive swelling, leading to prolonged discomfort.
- Infection risk – Touching the eyes, skipping prescribed antibiotics, or wearing makeup too soon can introduce bacteria, potentially leading to infections that require further treatment.
- Poor scar healing – Sun exposure, smoking, or premature makeup application can result in visible scarring that may not fade properly over time.
- Prolonged dry eyes and irritation – Failing to use prescribed eye drops or wearing contact lenses too early can lead to long-term dryness and discomfort.
- Bleeding or delayed healing – Engaging in heavy lifting, bending over, or consuming alcohol shortly after surgery can disrupt blood flow, increasing the risk of bleeding or prolonged healing time.
Dr. Metzinger stresses the importance of closely following post-operative instructions to avoid these complications. If unexpected symptoms like severe pain, excessive swelling, or vision changes occur, patients should contact their surgeon immediately. Proper aftercare ensures a smooth recovery and the best possible cosmetic outcome.
Final Tips for a Speedy Recovery
Recovering from eyelid surgery requires patience and careful attention to post-operative care. By understanding what not to do after eyelid surgery, patients can significantly reduce the risk of complications and ensure the best possible outcome. Avoiding common mistakes such as rubbing the eyes, engaging in strenuous activities, or exposing the skin to direct sunlight will help speed up healing and protect the delicate surgical area.
For a smoother recovery, patients should:
- Follow all post-operative instructions provided by their surgeon.
- Keep the head elevated while resting to minimize swelling.
- Use prescribed medications and eye drops as directed.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support healing.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor progress.
At Aesthetic Surgical Associates, Dr. Metzinger and his team are dedicated to providing expert care before, during, and after surgery. If you have any concerns about your recovery or need personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. By following the right steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can enjoy a smooth recovery and long-lasting, natural-looking results.
If you’re considering eyelid surgery or need post-operative support, contact Aesthetic Surgical Associates today to schedule a consultation. Dr. Metzinger and his team are here to help you achieve the best results with expert care.
Dr. Stephen E. Metzinger
February 6, 2025
