Under-eye bags occur when fat protrudes or fluid accumulates beneath the eyes, making the face look tired, older, and less refreshed. They can affect both older and younger people. Lower blepharoplasty is an effective surgical option for suitable patients. However, a good outcome depends not only on the surgeon’s skill but also on appropriate care after surgery.
This article brings together nine important aftercare practices to help reduce swelling, prevent complications, and support recovery. Follow your surgeon’s individual instructions, especially if you have additional procedures such as fat grafting.
9 Important Aftercare Practices Following Lower Blepharoplasty
1. Use Cold Compresses to Reduce Swelling
During the first 1–3 days after surgery, apply cold compresses intermittently to the lower eyelids as instructed by your surgeon. Cooling helps constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling and bruising.
Important exception: If you also undergo fat grafting, follow your surgeon’s instructions about cooling and avoid applying cold compresses directly to the grafted areas unless specifically advised.
2. Use Eye Drops and Take Medication Exactly as Prescribed
Prescribed eye drops and oral medications may help manage swelling, irritation, and infection risk after surgery. Use them at the prescribed times, do not skip doses, and do not stop treatment on your own simply because your symptoms have improved.
3. Keep the Eye Area Clean
The surgical wounds are still healing and require particular care to reduce the risk of infection:
- Gently wipe your face instead of washing it as usual until your surgeon permits normal washing.
- Ask someone to help wash your hair with your head tilted backward to prevent water from entering your eyes.
- Wear glasses when outdoors to help protect your eyes from dust and foreign particles.
4. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes or Applying Pressure to the Wounds
Rubbing your eyes or pressing firmly on the lower eyelids may reopen the wounds, damage blood vessels, and cause bleeding. Avoid straining and, where possible, forceful coughing or sneezing. If you have a persistent cough, consult your doctor about appropriate treatment.
5. Sleep on Your Back with Your Head Elevated 30–40 Degrees
Sleep on your back with your head elevated above heart level by approximately 30–40 degrees. This helps reduce fluid accumulation around the eyelids. Maintain this position for at least the first 3–5 days, or for the period recommended by your surgeon.
If you normally sleep on your side, ask your surgeon when it is safe to resume that position. Keep your head elevated and avoid pressure on the operated areas.
6. Choose Appropriate Foods During Recovery
Good nutrition supports wound healing and recovery.
Foods and drinks to avoid or limit:
- Very spicy or salty foods. High sodium intake can contribute to fluid retention and prolonged swelling.
- Processed foods such as sausages, ham, and bacon.
- Alcohol, which may interfere with healing and prescribed medications.
Recommended choices:
- Good-quality protein, such as lean chicken, fish, eggs, and tofu.
- Vitamin C-rich fruit, such as berries, to support collagen formation.
- Leafy green vegetables and whole grains to help prevent constipation.
- Foods such as turmeric, ginger, and salmon as part of a balanced diet.
- Approximately 8–10 glasses of water daily, unless your doctor advises a different fluid intake.
7. Avoid Strenuous Exercise for at Least 2–4 Weeks
Strenuous exercise increases blood pressure and circulation, which may cause bleeding around the wounds and prolong swelling. Sweat entering the eyes can also cause irritation. Avoid swimming and water sports until your surgeon clears you to resume them. Gentle walking is generally suitable and helps support circulation during recovery.
8. Avoid Eye Makeup and Contact Lenses for 3–4 Weeks
Cosmetics may irritate the wounds and increase infection risk. Inserting and removing contact lenses may also put pressure or friction on the operated area. Use glasses during recovery and resume eye makeup and contact lenses only when your surgeon confirms it is safe.
9. Get Enough Rest and Manage Stress
Sleep supports tissue repair. Aim for approximately 7–8 hours of sleep each night and try to manage stress during recovery. Prolonged stress can affect the body’s healing processes. Listening to music or podcasts, or practicing meditation, may help you relax.
Special Advice for Patients with Existing Medical Conditions
Diabetes
Patients with diabetes should have their blood glucose well controlled before lower blepharoplasty. High blood glucose can slow wound healing and increase the risk of infection.
High Blood Pressure
Patients with high blood pressure should have it appropriately controlled before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding during and after the procedure.
Other Conditions: Heart, Liver, Kidney, Blood, or Immune Disorders
Patients with complex medical conditions need a thorough assessment before surgery and clearance from the doctor managing their condition.
Warning Signs That Require Immediate Medical Attention
- Unusually severe pain.
- Severe swelling that continues to worsen.
- Persistent bleeding.
- Yellow or green eye discharge, which may indicate infection.
- Fever.
Summary: Supporting Recovery and Results After Lower Blepharoplasty
Appropriate aftercare helps support surgical results, reduce complications, and promote healing. Remember these nine practices and follow your surgeon’s instructions:
- Use cold compresses during the first 1–3 days as advised, with special instructions if you have fat grafting.
- Use eye drops and take medications exactly as prescribed.
- Keep the eye area clean and prevent dirty water from entering your eyes.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes or applying pressure to the wounds.
- Sleep on your back with your head elevated 30–40 degrees for at least 3–5 days.
- Avoid very spicy or salty foods and alcohol; include protein and vitamin C-rich foods.
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 2–4 weeks, or as instructed.
- Avoid eye makeup and contact lenses for 3–4 weeks, or until cleared by your surgeon.
- Sleep approximately 7–8 hours each night and manage stress.
If you are interested in surgery for under-eye bags or would like advice about postoperative care, contact our medical team to arrange a consultation.
