How Can I Relieve Long-Lasting Bruising After Eyelid Surgery

Question

I had a lower Blepharoplasty performed 3 months ago and experienced severe bruising which settled below my eye. I applied cold compresses for twelve days, and discovered a topical arnica treatment (bruise guard)that I have applied since then. The bruises are still present, brownish and puffy in color, and are in a moon shape crescent on the upper most portion of my cheeks. I have massaged them, applied bruise guard daily, and want to know what else can be done. I look more tired than ever with the bruises. Deb

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions. You are taking the right steps to help with bruising. Be patient and give it time. The best things you can do is wait (about 6-12 months) for all the bruising and discoloration to subside. Continue with icing and cold compresses, along with gentle massage. Best of luck!Dhaval M. Patel double board certified Plastic surgeon Hoffman EstatesBarringtonOakbrookChicago

Vivek Bansal, MD · Answer

Your bruising is longer than we are accustomed to seeing. You may be taking aspirin like compounds such as aspirin, bufferin, advil, Naprosyn, or other NSAID drugs. These may contribute to this bruising. You may also be taking herbs like ginko biloba which also contribute to bruising. If you are taking any aspirin or aspirin-like medication, stop until you are healed. Also, stop herb therapy if you are taking any. Supplementation should consist of only a multivitamin like a centrum once a day, and a healthy diet.

Etai Funk, MD · Answer

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, can frequently lead to mild bruising under the eyes. This typically resolves after 10 days. However, persistent bruising at 3 months after surgery may be the result of hemosiderin deposits in the skin. This may slowly fade and at times can take 6 months to 1 year before it resolves. IPL/ light therapy or laser treatment may expedite things.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

Bruising is expected after eyelid surgery and it usually resolves after 7 to 10 days. Persistent bruising and discoloration of the soft tissues can occur. There is really no magic cure as this will ultimately resolve on its own. Occasionally alternating warm and cool compresses can help as well as on over the counter herbal product, Bromelean. The usual antibruising dose is 500 mg twice a day between meals.

Joseph A. Eviatar, MD, FACS · Answer

It may be that there are bruises that last a long time. But, after 3 months it may not be bruises. it may simply be the vasculature under the skin - which now may be more obvious if the skin has been lifted up during the blepharoplasty. So, the cause of the dark circles has to be determined. If it is vascular sometimes IPL or Intense Pulse Light treatment may be helpful. If it is pigmentation, hydroquinone may be helpful.

How Can I Relieve Long-Lasting Bruising After Eyelid Surgery

Answers (5)