Because the orbits, eyelids, face and scalp are very vascular, they heal well, but that also means they swell and bruise. Even small procedures can result in an unexpected amount of swelling and bruising which can surprise some patients. It is very important to follow all post-operative instructions and to use the prescribed medications as instructed, especially within the first two weeks after surgery when healing is taking place most intensely. Although every surgery has differing post operative instructions and medications, these instructions are given to every patient after surgery:

1. Lifting, exercise or bending: For 2 weeks, do not do any lifting more than 20-30lbs, do not do any strenuous exercise and do not bend your head below your waist. This is critically important, as excessive straining to the head and neck area can cause sutures to pop or bleeding to occur.

2. Showering or washing your face: It is OK to shower after surgery, but do not get the surgical area wet. In fact, when showering, cover the surgical area with a dry cloth and allow the water to go down the opposite side of your head.

3. Sleeping: For a week, try to sleep with the head of the bed elevated. If you can’t do this, then sleep with two pillows to keep your head above your heart. This helps reduce swelling.

4. Ice to the surgical area: For 2-3 days after surgery, apply icepacks or frozen peas to the surgical area for 15 minutes out of every hour while awake. This will help reduce bruising and swelling.

5. Follow all post operative medication instructions. Dr. Chen or Pharo will give specific instructions on medications you were already on that they want you to restart taking or any new medications that they would like you to start taking. This is individualized for each patient.

6. Applying ointment: Use a Q-tip to apply any ointment to any surgical wounds to keep the surgical site as clean as possible. Be sure to wash your hands prior to applying any medications to the surgery site.

7. Do not manipulate the surgical site. Do not trim any visible sutures and not rub or examine the surgical sites - aside from applying ointment - as this can pop stitches.

8. Driving: Only drive a car when you feel safe to do so. Additionally, do not apply ointment to the eyes or eyelids for a few hours before driving as the ointment can blur vision.

9. Questions or Concerns: Be sure to call Dr. Chen or Dr. Pharo if you have any questions or concerns about surgery or healing. It is always better to call than to wait if you have a serious concern.

10. Follow-up: Your follow up appointment is typically made 1 week after surgery, but this varies by procedure/patient. You should have your follow up appointment made with Dr. Chen or Dr. Pharo prior to undergoing surgery, and your surgeon will confirm this the day of surgery. At your follow up appointment, be sure to bring all of your post-operative medications in case more medication/ointment is needed after the visit.