How can I reduce swelling and bruising ?

Thank you for your question about bruising and how to reduce it when it comes to a Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery).  Always good to plan ahead...This is a concern I hear routinely, and especially with facial aesthetic surgery such as Facelifts and Blepharoplasties.Like most surgeries, I truly feel that the number one way to reduce bruising is meticulous surgical technique and intra-op attention to detail with careful hemostasis (bleeding control).  That is your plastic surgeon's responsibility...  As a patient, however, there are a number of other ways for you to play an active role in reducing bruising, a common concern after Blepharoplasty.Here are some...(1) Apply iced compresses around your eyes for about 48 to 72 hours.(2) Maintain head elevation -- sleep on two pillows, and limit how much you bend over to pick things up -- try to bend at the knees instead of bending over at the waist, to reduce the "rush of blood" to your head, etc.(3) Reduce the risk of bleeding by not taking any "blood-thinning" medications, such as aspirin, NSAIDs, certain supplements such as fish oil, Garlic, Ginkgo, Ginseng, Vitamin E, and certain other herbal medications. (4) Do not drink any alcohol during your immediate post-operative course.(5) Limit strenuous activity for 2-3 weeks -- this will prevent your blood pressure from "spiking" during workouts and thus reduce bleeding (and subsequent bruising).  (6) Maintain good control of your blood pressure -- if you take medications for hypertension (high blood pressure) be sure to take the correct doses around your surgery times, both pre- and post-op.  Also, limit your salt intake to avoid unnecessary elevations in your blood pressure.  (Every little bit helps.)(7) Arnica and/or Bromelain is advocated by some -- it is controversial, but does help some patients.I also routinely offer laser therapy to reduce post-operative bruising. This is a unique option that I offer patients post-operatively for all surgeries I perform.These are all options that you may try.Please talk to your plastic surgeon about any other suggestions.Good luck. Dr Markarian

Thank you for a great question and for sharing your concerns.  Arnica Montana and bromolain may reduce bruising.  Icing after the procedure will help reduce swelling.  If you are on any blood thinning agents, pain relievers, or supplements consult your surgeon about discontinuing.  I would ask your surgeon for their pre and postoperative recommendations.  I hope you find this helpful. Best wishes!Consult with a Board Certified Fellowship Trained Facial Plastic Surgery Specialist."This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

The tried and true methods for best recovery after eyelid surgery are:  Before surgery, stop all meds which could increase bleeding such as NSAIDS, Asprin, Warfarin, Coumadin etc,  stop all herbal or other supplements, stop all medications unless medically necessary.  During surgery have meticulous surgeon.  After surgery do cool moist compresses to your eyes, avoid any activity which would make your face turn red or elevate your heart rate or blood pressure, and avoid salty foods.  Good luck.