Week 1 Post-Operative

What to Expect This Week

Week 1 brings significant improvements. The dramatic swelling from days 2-3 has reduced considerably, and bruising is beginning to change color (from purple/blue to yellow/green as it fades). You'll likely have a follow-up appointment to have your stitches removed, which is a quick and relatively painless process.

Stitch Removal

Stitches are typically removed between days 5-7, depending on your surgeon's protocol. Here's what to expect:

• Quick procedure - usually takes just 5-10 minutes
• Minimal discomfort - most patients describe it as a gentle tugging sensation, not pain
• Immediate relief - many patients feel less tight once the stitches are out
• Continue gentle care - the incisions are still healing, so be careful not to rub or pull at the area

After Stitch Removal

• You may be given a new eye care routine or scar care instructions
• Continue using lubricating drops if your eyes still feel dry
• Avoid makeup on the incision lines for a few more days (your surgeon will advise)
• You can gently cleanse the area with mild soap and water

Swelling and Bruising Progress

By week 1, you'll notice:

• Swelling is reducing - you can now see the shape of your new eyelid contours emerging
• Bruising is changing color - from dark purple/blue to lighter shades of yellow, green, or brown
• Less puffiness - your eyes are starting to look more natural
• Vision clearing - any blurriness from early days should be resolving

Common Symptoms This Week

Itching (Very Common and Normal)

Many patients experience itching around the incision sites this week. This is actually a good sign - it means your body is healing. However:

• Do NOT scratch or rub your eyes - this can damage the healing tissue
• If itching is intense, use a cold compress for relief
• Antihistamine eye drops (ask your surgeon first) may help
• Keep your hands clean and resist the urge to touch the area

Other Normal Symptoms

• Tightness - your eyelids may feel tight or "pulled," especially when blinking or looking up/down
• Dry eyes - continue using lubricating drops as needed
• Mild asymmetry - one eye may heal slightly faster than the other; this is normal
• Sensitivity to wind and light - wear your sunglasses when outdoors
• Residual bruising - particularly around the lower eyelids or cheeks

Activity Guidelines

You Can Now

• Resume light daily activities - short walks, light housework
• Return to screen time - but take regular breaks to rest your eyes
• Shower normally - just avoid getting soap directly in your eyes
• Gently cleanse your face - be careful around the incision sites
• Sleep on your side - if comfortable, though elevation is still beneficial

Continue to Avoid

• Strenuous exercise - no running, gym, heavy lifting
• Bending over or straining
• Contact lenses - stick to glasses for at least 2 weeks total
• Eye makeup - particularly on or near the incision lines
• Swimming or hot tubs
• Alcohol and smoking

Eye Care Routine

• Continue lubricating drops - use preservative-free artificial tears as often as needed
• Gentle cleansing - use a mild cleanser around the eyes, avoiding harsh rubbing
• Cool compresses if needed - can still help with residual swelling
• Sunglasses outdoors - protect from UV, wind, and dust

When to Contact Your Surgeon

Most symptoms at this stage are normal, but contact your team if you notice:

• Increasing pain, redness, or swelling (should be improving, not worsening)
• Signs of infection (pus, fever, warmth spreading beyond the incision)
• Vision changes or vision loss
• Excessive bleeding or oozing from the incision sites
• One eyelid suddenly becoming much more swollen than the other