After eyelid surgery I am still swollen (3 month post-op). Would Arnica help?

Question

The only thing my doctor says is "you must be one of those". I have lost confidence in the doctor. Would you have any advice for me? Would Arnica help at this point? I am willing to wait for the swelling to go down, but I am beginning to wonder if there is something that I can do to hasten the result. I also have the bumps at the end of where the stitches were and the doctor says, if not better in another week, call and I will inject steroid. I am also not comfortable with that answer.

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

It is unusual for significant amount of swelling to be present 3 months after eyelid surgery. There are others things that can make the eyes appear swollen. Recommend seeing an oculoplastic specialist for evaluation.

Thomas Buonassisi, MD · Answer

It's understandable to feel concerned about prolonged swelling three months after eyelid surgery, especially when your doctor's responses leave you feeling uncertain. While some swelling is normal after surgery, there are options to help expedite the healing process. Arnica is often used to reduce swelling and bruising, but its effectiveness may diminish over time post-surgery. Additionally, gentle massage around the area can promote lymphatic drainage, which may help reduce swelling. It’s also crucial to maintain open communication with your doctor about your concerns. If you're uncomfortable with the suggested steroid injection, consider seeking a second opinion from another specialist. Remember, your confidence in your healthcare provider is important, and you deserve to feel supported during your recovery.

Frank P. Fechner, MD · Answer

Although not unheard of, it is extremely rare to experience noticable swelling at this point in your recovery. Because you trusted your surgeon with your eyes, it maybe worthwhile to be honest with him/her about your concerns and probe about his confidence that this will resolve. Ask if you should consult with an eyelid specialist to obtain a second opinion. Of course, it is the experienced eyelid surgeon you want to see, not somebody who focusses on other parts of the body.Arnica as a homeopathic will not hurt but may not provide you with the solution you are looking for.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

There are some people however who seem to have some residual swelling for a few months, and notice this especially when they wake up in the morning.  Arnica has been reported to help with bruising, but recent studies have shown this probably isn't true.  I have patients try anti-inflammatories such as Ibuprofen. Massage may help smooth out the irregular scar and very low dose steroid injections can help with any area of firm scarring.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

This is highly unusual.  Seek a second opinion with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Request a copy of your operative report from the original surgeon, so that  you can take a copy with you to your appointment.

After eyelid surgery I am still swollen (3 month post-op). Would Arnica help?

Answers (5)