How Can I Distinguish Between Swelling and Infection Post Lower Lid Blepharoplasty? (photo)

Classical signs of an infection are redness, swelling, tenderness, discharge, or fever. Signs are not always predictable as none, some, or all of the signs may or may not be present. Only a comprehensive evaluation by your plastic surgeon can best answer the question.

An infection can occur at anytime, but the surgical area is most sensitive the first few days after plastic surgery. Fortunately, the risk of infection after facial plastic surgery is low, partly due to the rich blood supply to the area. Following the postoperative care instructions of your plastic surgeon should help reduce the risk of infection. Smokers and certain medical conditions have a higher risk of infection. 

Infection can be sometimes confused for normal healing, reaction to stitches, allergy, or other conditions. Speak with your eyelid plastic surgeon, and let him/her examine you.

Dr. Chaboki

The simple answer is that you should not be trying to make this determination as it should be made by your surgeon. If you have any suspicion that you may have a wound infection, you should be seen immediately by your doctor. It is really useless to review signs and symptoms to a typical infection as you may have an atypical presentation. Please call and schedule a visit with your surgeon immediately.