Golf competition 6 days after blepharoplasty? How soon can I golf and/or should I withdraw from the competitions?

Question

So I'm getting belpharoplasty in a few days as my doctor is retiring very soon so I can't do it next year. I am currently a competitive golfer and this summer is really important to set up for the following years; however, I can't reschedule this surgery any later. I have an important qualifying competition 6 days after the surgery and another qualifying one about 14 days later.

Jacqueline T. Cheng, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question about blepharoplasty and recovery. Most board certified facial plastic surgeons will recommend waiting at least two weeks after your surgery before resuming any strenuous activities. Bending over or lifting &mdash; as well as the more strenuous aspects of golf &mdash; for example, could increase your blood pressure and lead to bleeding and complications which could impact your results. You can gradually resume more vigorous physical activities after two weeks and safely resume all your normal activities after four weeks. Talk to your board certified facial plastic surgeon if you have more questions or concerns about recovery. There are many qualified and experienced board certified facial plastic surgeons who perform blepharoplasties and who can give you a satisfying and safe result. Good luck! 
- Jacqueline T. Cheng, MD

Matthew Richardson, MD · Answer

In my practice, I recommend that patients avoid strenuous activity of any kind (including lifting, straining, exercise, etc) for 2 weeks after most facial procedures, including blepharoplasty. While it's possible that nothing would happen from playing golf, the swing forces involved, bending over, etc are risky activities only 6 days after surgery and would put you at risk for bleeding. Occasionally, some blurry vision is also possible in the immediate postop period, which would also affect your ability to play golf. Of course, discuss your concerns with your surgeon, but I would tell all of my patients to either skip the surgery or skip the golf until 2 weeks after surgery.
Best,

Oren Paul Mushin, MD · Answer

Hi there, thanks for your question. I would agree with my colleagues, best to avoid strenuous activity for two weeks. Best of luck to you.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

In our practice, we tell patients not to be performing any strenuous activity or exercise for two weeks after a blepharoplasty procedure. Probably best to reschedule the surgery, or skip the golf competition

Robert Brueck, MD · Answer

I can say if this were my bleph I would not be golfing 6 days post op.I usually tell my patients to wait at least 3 weeks post op.

Golf competition 6 days after blepharoplasty? How soon can I golf and/or should I withdraw from the competitions?

Answers (5)