Could Prolonged Use of my Salt Water Pool Be Affecting my Swelling?

Question

5 weeks after facelift, brow lift and upper and lower eye surgery. It seems today my swelling is worse than yesterday around eyes and ears (lymph glands) I have been getting in my salt water pool every day for up to hour. Could my body be absorbing this salt causing worsened swelling?

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

The salt water would not cause increased swelling, but it's possible that the heat of the pool water could cause some swelling. If you are swimming, the positioning of your body with your face down could also cause more swelling. In general, keeping your head elevated generally helps. I would just keep an eye on things for now but if you feel the swelling is not improving, please contact your surgeon.

Manuel A. Lopez, MD · Answer

It is highly unlikely that the salt in the saltwater pool is contributing much to your swelling, however, two factors that can increase your swelling in the postoperative period are increased activity and heat. Both factors may be occuring in the pool but are unrelated to the saltwater. As the body is healing there will be better and worse days with swelling but that will all normalize. It can take up to 6 months. Best Wishes.

Patti A. Flint, MD · Answer

The pool is not causing a problem, but if you are being active in the pool, you may temporarily increase swelling. With your surgeons permission, apply cool compresses after you are active. This swelling is temporary and will stop occurring between three and six months out from surgery.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

It is highly unlikely that the pool is causing any swelling, but your activity might be. Also, the heat from the pool could increase swelling. Follow your Plastic Surgeon's post operative instructions for a complete recovery.

Could Prolonged Use of my Salt Water Pool Be Affecting my Swelling?

Answers (4)

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