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Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery

 
 
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It is very important to follow these instructions after your ophthalmic plastic surgery to ensure its success. Your healthcare provider will complete the instructions below that are appropriate for your personal recovery.

  1. Use cold compresses over your eyelid(s) every hour for 10 to 15 minutes each hour for the first two days after surgery. You only need to do this while you are awake. The cold compress will help to reduce swelling of the eyelids and keep discomfort to a minimum. You may use an ice bag over your eye or put crushed ice in a plastic bag or use a bag of frozen peas covered with a clean towel. DO NOT put ice directly on your eye.
  2. It is normal for your tears to be blood tinged for the first day or two after the surgery. You may experience a little oozing from the incision site as well. This is normal.
  3. The effects of the local anesthetic will wear off after a few hours. You may take Tylenol tablets as directed to relieve the pain. DO NOT TAKE ASPIRIN OR ASPIRIN-CONTAINING PRODUCTS for 2 days after your surgery because aspirin may cause bleeding.
  4. You may continue taking all your previous medications.
  5. You may take a shower, but do not let the water run directly onto the operated area until the swelling and tenderness have resolved. Be careful not rub your eye until the eyelid has healed.
  6. Four times per day for 4 or 5 days, or until the lid is healed, place a small amount of the antibiotic ointment on the incision site. The ointment may also be used during the day to ease any eye irritation, but it will blur your vision.
  7. A follow-up appointment should be scheduled after surgery.
  8. If you should experience excessive pain, bleeding, swelling or any other difficulties after your surgery, please call the Nurse Clinician between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays at 216.444.2863 or 800.223.2273, ext. 42863. Before 8 a.m. and after 5 p.m. and on weekends, call 216.444.2200 or 800.223.2273, ext. 42200, and ask for the eye doctor on call.

Click here to make an appointment now. Or call 216.444.2020 or 1.800.223.2273 Ext. 42020 to schedule an appointment with a Cole Eye Institute ophthalmologist.