I Used an Ice Pack on my Face Following Upper Bleph Surgery to Reduce Swelling on my Face, But It Burned Me. What Can I Do?

Question

Now my lower left eyelid has been pink with tiny bumps for 6 days. How long will this last and how should I treat it? My doctor gave me Lotemax ointment. I think it's an ice pack burn which I did not know about until I read about runners getting it on their legs using an ice pack for too long. I am concerned that I did something really stupid and permanently damaged my skin. I did not know about ice pack burns; no one told me this was a possibility. I know better now (SIGH).

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

The skin does have a remarkable capacity to recover.  I think you will find that this area will heal from this thermal injury.  It is important not to keep thermal agents on the skin without a break.  People have to get out of the more is better mindset.

Kris M. Reddy, MD, FACS · Answer

You should be able to recover quickly from the thermal burn as the skin has an impressive ability to heal itself.  However, you should consult with your surgeon to get his/her guidance and also to review all postoperative instructions so they are clear.

John Borkowski, MD · Answer

Tough question to answer without photos and more information.  First of all, your surgeon is in the best position to evaluate an manage your problem.  It is suprising that you were able to leave the ice pack on long enough to cause an injury to the skin.  Usually the pain from the cold will make you want to remove it before any injury occurs.  Also why one lower lid and not the other?  Another possiblity is a contact dermatitis from something on the pack or elsewhere irritating your skin.

	As long as the lower lids have not been operated upon or treated with a chemical peel or laser, they should heal with minimal problems.   Again, close follow up with your surgeon is important.

Ronald V. DeMars, MD (Retired) · Answer

You need to discuss this with your surgeon. It would take a careful exam to answer your question. I have seen a patient do this before and they had a complete recovery with no further scarring.

I Used an Ice Pack on my Face Following Upper Bleph Surgery to Reduce Swelling on my Face, But It Burned Me. What Can I Do?

Answers (4)

Answer: Skin burn after ice packs

Answer: Skin burn after ice packs

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Everything you need to know about Skin Rejuvenation

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I Used an Ice Pack on my Face Following Upper Bleph Surgery to Reduce Swelling on my Face, But It Burned Me. What Can I Do?

Answers (4)

Answer: Skin burn after ice packs

Answer: Skin burn after ice packs

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Skin Rejuvenation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.