Upper & Lower Eyelid Surgery 15 Days Ago, Discharge From Eyes?

Question

I had upper & lower blepharoplasty 15 days ago. I am younger than the majority who get this surgery, I healed really quickly, there is no evidence of bruising and almost no swelling with the exception of the upper lid itself.. That being said, when I wake up from my sleep I sometimes find I have quite a bit of white -somewhat sticky- discharge from my eyes. I am using antibiotic drops, as well as the ointment they gave me. Could this be a sign of infection? Or normal release after sleep?

Mitesh Kapadia, MD, PhD · Answer

It is hard to tell if there is an infection without examining you in person. A mild amount of discharge is common after eyelid surgery. If the discharge is in the morning only and there is minimal eyelid swelling and no eye redness the chance of having an infection is low, but I would still recommend seeing your surgeon for an examination.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Sometimes the medicated ointments can cause conjunctival irritation. Still this can be normal for this stage after surgery. I suggest an assessment by your ophthalmologist to determine the cause of the discharge.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

The eyes are very sensitive in the conjunctiva, even though it is not injured through a conventional blepharoplasty, can respond because of the proximity to the operation. The eyes generate secretions is a consequence to the information which can accumulate.

Jennifer Harrington, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to have some discharge after blepharoplasty.  If you are becoming increasingly more irritated with time I strongly recommend you have your surgeon take a peak to make sure you are not reacting to the ointment or brewing a infection.

	Best of luck,

	Jennifer Harrington MD

Thomas A. Narsete, MD (retired) · Answer

Without a photo or exam, it is hard to answer your question. In my past, discharge following blepharoplasty is normal especially if the conjunctiva and tear ducts are engorged. This normally clears itself.Follow your surgeons advise on the matter. All the best

Upper & Lower Eyelid Surgery 15 Days Ago, Discharge From Eyes?

Answers (5)