The first 72 hours
Cold compresses:
- Day 0: every 20 minutes for 6 hours after surgery
- Day 1: every hour while awake
- Day 2–3: every 2–3 hours
- Use gel packs or clean cloth with crushed ice in a bag
- Direct application is fine — wrap in thin cloth if it feels too cold
Sleeping position: Head elevated on 2–3 pillows. Use a wedge pillow if available. Sleep on your back (no side sleeping for the first week). Gravity reduces overnight swelling significantly.
Eye drops:
- Lubricating (artificial tears) every 2 hours while awake
- Antibiotic drops or ointment as prescribed — typically 4 times/day for 5–7 days
- Lubricating ointment at night for the first 2 weeks (protects cornea while lid closure is still incomplete)
Days 4–14
- Cold compresses transition to warm at day 4 — warm compresses help residual bruising resolve faster than cold once the initial swelling phase is past
- Gentle cleaning of the incisions with sterile saline or as instructed; no soap or face cleanser directly on the incisions for 7 days
- Suture removal at day 5–7 (upper lid; transconjunctival sutures dissolve)
- Sun protection mandatory — wear sunglasses outdoors, apply SPF 50 around (not on) incisions from day 14
- No swimming, sauna, hot tub until day 14 minimum
- No bending below waist or lifting >5 kg for 10 days (increases facial venous pressure)
What to avoid
- Aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil — for 7 days post-op (paracetamol is fine for any discomfort)
- Alcohol — for 5 days post-op
- Smoking — for 4 weeks minimum (significantly affects healing)
- Rubbing or pulling at the eyes — even gentle rubbing can disturb sutures and increase swelling
- Contact lenses — until day 14 (glasses only)
- Eye makeup — until day 14, then use a fresh tube (not the old one)
Frequently asked questions
What if my eye won't fully close at night?
Normal in the first 2 weeks due to swelling. The lubricating ointment we prescribe protects the cornea overnight — apply generously before sleep. If the issue persists beyond 3 weeks, contact the clinic.
Can I shower normally?
Yes, from the next day. Avoid direct water spray on the face/eyes for the first 5 days. Wash your face with a damp cloth around (not on) the incisions until day 7.
Not sure if you're a candidate?
Blepharoplasty is most successful when patient anatomy, age, and goals align with what surgery can realistically deliver. Send three facial photos (front, profile, eyes-closed) and Doç. Dr. Erdal will give you an honest, no-pressure suitability assessment before you commit to anything.
Ready to discuss your case?
Doç. Dr. Erdal personally reviews every enquiry. Honest assessment of whether blepharoplasty is right for you, with no pressure to book.