How Long to Use Antibiotic Ointment After Blepharoplasty
Antibiotic ointments such as bacitracin, erythromycin, and Tobradex can help with healing after eyelid surgery. However, it is important to know that antibiotic ointment should be used for a limited time as prolonged use can lead to skin irritation or contact dermatitis, which can delay the recovery process.
When it comes to eyelid surgery aftercare, many people with best intentions will apply liberal amounts of antibiotic ointment daily, resulting in running out of ointment in the first 1 to 2 days. Some believe using the ointment for weeks will aid in recovery, but I advise my patients to apply it sparingly in the initial days.
Blepharoplasty After Care: Proper Ointment Application
I recommend applying ointment conservatively with a swab or Q-Tip to avoid any dirt or bacteria from the fingers making their way to the incision. For the lower eyelids, a small amount is to be applied with the tube on the edge of the lower eyelid, comparable to the placement of eyeliner.
Avoiding Allergic Reactions
Extended use of antibiotic ointment may cause contact dermatitis, characterized by redness and itching. Ironically, many people think the redness and itching represent an infection, which they treat with even more antibiotic ointment. Consequently, they are making their allergic reaction worse.
After a few days of antibiotic ointment use, to create the optimal moist environment for healing, I advise my patients to use a petrolatum-based ointment such as Aquaphor. Again, the ointment should also be applied with a Q-tip.
Managing Scarring Concerns
After sutures are removed for example in upper eyelid surgery, I advise my patients that during the first few weeks after surgery which is referred to as the proliferative phase of wound healing, it is normal for the incision to be slightly thick and red. I find that the fear of keloid scarring motivates people to buy over-the-counter scar treatment ointments, which I advise my patients not to do. Some degree of itch and redness are normal for several weeks after eyelid surgery. In situations where itching and redness become intolerable, or you suspect possible infection, you should immediately check with your doctor.
In my practice, I follow my patients after eyelid surgery closely with follow up visits so I may observe their progress, and advise them accordingly.
Importance of Continued Communication
It is important to continue communicating with your doctor during your healing process. If my patients are concerned about their appearance, I always ask them to come in for me to see how things look. I keep an open communication policy, so if patients have questions about any healing products that they come across online, I review the information, and advise accordingly. I hope you found this information helpful.
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) New York
Dr. Amiya Prasad is a Board-certified cosmetic surgeon, and a Fellowship-trained oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He’s been in practice in Manhattan and Long Island for over 30 years. Dr. Prasad is well known as a go-to specialist for cosmetic eyelid surgery such as hooded eye surgery, ptosis, under eye bag removal, and Asian double eyelid surgery. He is also known as an eyelid specialist for revision surgery for eyelid surgery complications, and reconstructive surgery after trauma and malignancy.
To schedule a consultation, fill the form below or contact any of our offices: (212) 265-8877 for Manhattan, (516) 742-4636 for Garden City Long Island Office, or (703) 356-1336 for Vienna, Virginia.
