Upper eyelid surgery 3 days ago (8/6/14). When should I switch (or should I?) from ice to warm compresses? (Photo)

Question

Hello; I had my upper eyelids done Wednesday (8/8/14) morning. I'm seeing daily improvement with swelling & bruising. I used ice packs almost 24/7 for first 48 hours & on & off since then. At what point should I switch to warm compresses, or do I even need to continue ice and/or warm compresses? Also using Arnicare Gel on bruises and Refresh Lacri-Lube on stitches. Thanks Here's my photos from today, Saturday 8/9/14.

Scott W. Vann, MD, FACS · Answer

I agree with most doctors that ice for 48-72 hours is ideal.I also like an extra pillow for more head elevation for the first few days which will allow gravity to help reduce swelling. I rarely recommend warm conpresses since I feel the vasodilation effect will increase the swelling again. Also my patients have told me that if they have pain or eye irritation after 72 hrs that more ice feels better than warm anyway. At any rate you should follow your surgeon's guidelines and if that is not working for you call your surgeon to work out a solution to any problem you have.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

Ice works well the first 48-72 hours.  After that should switch to warm.  But best is to follow your surgeons protocol

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Generally I recommend icing for the first 48 hours and then warm compresses.  My advice is to follow the instructions you have been given by your surgeon and do not improvise.  If there are any issues, call the surgeons office and speak to the surgeon or be seen if necessary.  You swelling is normal.  It really sounds like your surgeon knows what they are doing.

Kyle S. Choe, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear KarenFL,

I recommend
that my patients use cold eye pads for the first 24-48 hours to help with swelling. Never use ice directly onto the skin. We do not recommend warm compresses. The most
important thing for you at this point is to use the antibiotic ointment or lubricant
along the suture line.  You should keep
the sutures well lubricated so that when the physician is ready to remove them,
they will be easily taken out.  Be
careful of rubbing the arnica gel along the bruise lines as sometimes an over
aggressive rubbing can actually reopen the incision or create a situation that
you don’t want.  Good luck to you.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

"When your surgeon advises!" Why would any of us over the internet experts advise your post operative care protocols without knowing exactly what was done. I give ALL my patients written post op care protocols with my cell # if they have ANY concerns...

Upper eyelid surgery 3 days ago (8/6/14). When should I switch (or should I?) from ice to warm compresses? (Photo)

Answers (8)