When Can I Start "Washing my Eyes" After Double Eyelid Surgery?

Question

Hi, I recently got double eyelid surgery and was wondering when I could start washing my eyes. I am currently washing my face carefully avoiding my eyes and making sure that water doesn't touch my eyelids. I wanted to start wearing eye makeup again but I'm afraid that I might damage the sutures while trying to remove my makeup.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

This is an excellent question to ask your surgeon and not others who did not perform the surgery. Your surgeon may have used certain techniques and have a specific protocol in place which they feel is essential to an excellent outcome.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

The best advice I can give is that you should follow the postoperative instructions given to you by your Surgeon and no-one else. A well trained, well organized Surgeon should have specific instructions (typically in written form) outlining the do's and don'ts after surgery.

Leo Kim, FRACS(Plast), MS(Plast), MBBS(Hons) · Answer

Every surgeon should be meticulous about the way they operate and how their postoperative instructions are communicated because successful outcomes depend on it so you should specifically ask your surgeon. Every surgeon I know do slightly/completely do different thing yet most get good results. 
Things that are reasonable after eyelid surgery are 
- Keeping it dry for a couple of days
- Using gentle irrigation with some normal saline to get rid of crud and dabbing it dry
- Using some eye lube to keep it moist especially at night
- Some ice packs to reduce swelling in the first couple of days 
- Avoid make up until further advice, I usually don't like it on it for a couple of weeks at least.
Wish you the best in your journey.
Dr Leo Kim, Specialist Plastic Surgeon

James Tang, MD · Answer

After eyelid surgery you can start cleaning your eyelids with a cotton tip applicator and hydrogen peroxide within one day after surgery. After about three days you can begin to gently washing your eyelids with water and pat dry with a clean towel. You should be careful not to rub your eyes for at least two weeks.

Larry Fan, MD · Answer

Dear shiningstar,

	I would ask your surgeon these questions, as there are many different practices and techniques. Good luck with your recovery.

	Larry Fan, MD

Sam Goldberger, MD · Answer

You should get all post-op advice from your surgeon.  Differences in technique would preclude another physician from answering that question for you.

Sam Lam, MD, FACS, FISHRS · Answer

You really must ask your surgeon that question.  It is not fair for other surgeons to answer that for you.

When Can I Start "Washing my Eyes" After Double Eyelid Surgery?

Answers (7)