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CICATRIX * OPTIMA 1720 HOWARD AVE, SUITE 364 WINDSOR, ON N8X 5A6 TEL/FAX: 519.971 0971 |
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Post-Operative Instructions Wound Care Most patients lose the ability to close their eyes until the local anaesthetic wears off (normally a few hours). Ophthalmic lubricant ointment is placed in the eyes until the effect wears off. Have ice compresses at home. You can apply iced 4X4 gauze compresses (soak gauze in ice water) 3-4 times per day for the first 4-5 days. The compresses are helpful in preventing excess swelling and may be continued longer as desired for comfort.
You may find that you become dizzy or lightheaded when changing position. In addition you will be sore. You should move slowly and with caution until this feeling passes. Bruising, discolouration, and swelling are to be expected. This will mostly disappear in approximately 2-4 weeks. The eyes are rarely the same at any one time in the early post operative period. Skin tightening begins about 4 weeks after surgery and continues slowly up to one year. A feeling of tightness in your eyelid area may persist for several weeks. This is a natural result of removal of excess tissue and will resolve with time. In some cases it may be necessary. to continue to use ophthalmic lubricant and to tape the eyelids at night.
You may apply ice (or a small package of frozen peas or carrots) intermittently for comfort and to decrease the bruising and swelling. Do not apply the ice directly on to the operative site.
You may experience some numbness and tingling in the skin over the areas that have been operated on. This will also resolve with time.
Most stitches will be removed by the first week after your operation. Once your stitches are removed you can clean the incisions gently using Q tips and tap water. Apply a thin layer of Vaseline or Aquaphor to the suture lines. Do not share Vaseline tubes or containers with others. Some thickening of the incisions with crusting and flaking persists for 3-4 weeks after surgery.
You should be alert for eye pain, especially if present on one side only. If you experience sudden pain or changes in your vision, call us immediately.
Once your incisions are fully healed, you can massage your eyelids (upper lid drawn downward, lower lid drawn upward). This will help to soften the scars and ease any feeling of tightness.
Medications:
Getting your life back to normal Drink regularly and as much as you can. It is important that you stay well hydrated. In addition to a healthy diet, you need to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day for the first week following your surgery. Do not drink any alcohol during the first two weeks.
You are encouraged to be up and about as much as possible. Strenuous physical activity is not permitted for 4 weeks. A good basic rule is “if it hurts, do not do it.”
Eat lightly for the first 24 hours.
Protect your eyes outside with sunglasses. Sun exposure should be limited for at least a month following surgery or until your scars have matured.
Sleep with your head elevated on several pillows, or in a recliner chair for the first week or until the swelling subsides. This will decrease the amount of swelling that will accumulate.
Do not smoke for at least 6 weeks after surgery.
You can shower after two days. Swimming should be avoided for 3 weeks.
Eye makeup is permitted at 2 weeks post operatively but artificial lashes are discouraged for 1 month post operatively. Contact lenses may be worn at 1 month.
You can call us with any further questions you may have.
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