Peak swelling day. Focus on cold compresses, elevation, and gentle eye care as you begin your recovery journey.
What to Expect Today
Day 2 is typically when swelling and bruising are at their peak - around 48 hours after surgery. This is completely normal and expected. Your eyes may feel tight, puffy, and possibly tender. Some patients experience blurry vision due to swelling and lubricating ointments, but this is temporary.
This is Normal
If you look in the mirror today and feel shocked by the swelling - don't panic. Day 2-3 represents the peak of swelling. From here, things improve rapidly. By day 7, you'll see a dramatic difference.
Key Activities for Today
Cold Compresses (Your Best Friend)
Cold compresses are the most effective tool for managing swelling and providing comfort. Here's how to use them properly:
Apply for 10-15 minutes every hour while you're awake
Use gel eye masks from the freezer or a clean washcloth dampened with cold water
Never apply ice directly to your skin - always use a barrier like a clean cloth
Gently place the compress over closed eyes - no pressure
Rotate between 2-3 gel masks so you always have a cold one ready
Head Elevation
Keeping your head elevated helps reduce swelling significantly:
Sleep with your head elevated 30-45 degrees - use 2-3 pillows or a wedge pillow
Try to sleep on your back if possible - avoid turning onto your side
When resting during the day, recline rather than lying completely flat
This position helps fluid drain away from the surgical sites
Eye Care
Use prescribed eye drops or ointment as directed by your surgeon
Lubricating drops (preservative-free) can be used frequently if your eyes feel dry or gritty
Gently clean around the eyes with damp cotton pads - pat, don't rub
Avoid getting the incision lines wet in the shower (you can shower, just be careful around the eyes)
Don't rub your eyes - if they itch, use a cold compress instead
Activity Guidelines
What You Should Do
Rest - your body is healing, so take it easy
Stay hydrated - drink plenty of water
Eat light, nutritious meals - avoid salty foods which can increase swelling
Take gentle walks around your home - light movement is fine
Wear your dark sunglasses if you need to go outside (even for a few minutes)
Take your medications as prescribed (pain relief, antibiotics if given)
What to Avoid
Bending over or putting your head below your heart
Lifting anything heavy (over 5kg/10lbs)
Strenuous activity or exercise
Straining (including on the toilet - stay hydrated and eat fiber)
Reading, TV, or screens for extended periods - give your eyes frequent rest breaks
Alcohol and smoking - both impair healing
Contact lenses - stick to glasses for now
Blurry Vision is Normal
Many patients experience blurry or "filmy" vision in the first few days. This is usually due to:
Swelling around the eyes
Lubricating ointment coating the eye surface
Normal post-surgical inflammation
This typically resolves within 3-5 days. If you have concerns, contact your surgical team.
Common Symptoms (All Normal)
Significant swelling - particularly around the eyelids and possibly extending to the cheeks
Bruising - may appear purple, blue, or even spread slightly lower onto the cheeks
Tightness or pulling sensation around the incision sites
Mild discomfort or tenderness - manageable with prescribed pain relief
Watery or teary eyes - this is your eyes' natural response to surgery
Light sensitivity - bright lights may feel uncomfortable (hence the sunglasses)
Temporary blurry vision - from swelling and ointments
When to Contact Your Surgeon
While most symptoms are normal, contact your surgical team immediately if you experience:
Severe pain not controlled by prescribed medication
Sudden vision changes or vision loss in one or both eyes
Excessive bleeding from the incision sites
Signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus, fever over 38°C/100.4°F)
Extreme swelling on one side only
Chest pain or difficulty breathing (seek emergency help)
You're Doing Great
Day 2 is often the hardest day psychologically - the swelling is at its peak and you might feel uncomfortable. But remember: this is temporary. Each day from here gets progressively better. Focus on rest, cold compresses, and elevation. You'll be amazed at how much improvement you see by the end of the week.