How soon after surgery can I return to regular activities?

Question

Hello, I'm a busy mother and wife, how soon after upper eyelid surgery am I able to return to regular chores like laundry, cooking, cleaning and driving? Thank you!

Mitesh Kapadia, MD, PhD · Answer

Different doctors will probably have different recommendations about this. I let patients drive and do non-strenuous activities such as walking or household chores as soon as the day after surgery. If the eyelids are so swollen that they reduce your field of vision you obviously shouldnt be driving.

Mark Petroff, MD · Answer

It is best that you consult the physician performing the surgery for his/her guidelines regarding recovery.  I advise my patients to refrain from physical activity that will increase their heart rate for 2 weeks post op.  Raising the heart rate will increase swelling and bruising and prolong healing.  With that said, doing light activity such as cooking meals, light laundry, etc., should be alright.  Keep in mind, you will also need to keep your head elevated above your heart - so no stooping.  No driving until you are done taking pain medication and swelling is not impairing your vision. Good luck with surgery!Mark Petroff, MD

Alfonso Gonzalez Cepeda, MD · Answer

After an upper eyelid blepharoplasty, you can drive in as little as 5 days. To return to more active routine where bending over and brisk movements, it is recommend to wait at least 2 weeks. The external stitches are normally removed 5 days after surgery. Dark sunglasses should be worn during the day. You must protect your vunerable eyes from direct sunlight.

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

If your chores do not require heavy lifting and straining you could return to them a few days after surgery and if you are not on pain medications you could be driving but check with your surgeon and see what his policy isDr. corbin

Edward J. Domanskis, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

You can usually return to your usual activities, if it does not involve anything too strenuous that may cause your blood pressure to go up and possibly cause bleeding within a few days after your surgery. But, it will also depend on how much swelling and bleeding you would have.

How soon after surgery can I return to regular activities?

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