Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a common procedure used to remove excess skin or fat from the upper or lower eyelids. Proper aftercare is essential to ensure good healing, reduce the risk of infection and achieve the best cosmetic result. One of the most common questions patients ask after surgery is how long they should continue using ointment on the eyelids.
This blog explains why ointment is prescribed after blepharoplasty, “How Long You Can Use Ointment After Blepharoplasty?” and what to expect during recovery.
Why Is Ointment Used After Blepharoplasty?
After blepharoplasty, the skin around the eyes is delicate and healing incisions are exposed to moisture, blinking and environmental irritants. Ointments are prescribed to protect the incision sites, keep the area moist and reduce the risk of infection.
Most post-surgical ointments contain antibiotic properties and are designed to support wound healing while preventing dryness and crusting around the stitches.
How Long Should You Use Ointment After Blepharoplasty?
In most cases, ointment is used for 7 to 10 days after blepharoplasty. This timeframe usually covers the initial healing phase while stitches are still present or shortly after they are removed.
Some surgeons may recommend continuing ointment for up to two weeks, especially if healing is slower or if the skin remains dry or sensitive. The exact duration depends on the type of blepharoplasty performed, how well the incisions are healing and your surgeon’s specific instructions.
What Happens If You Stop Using Ointment Too Early?
Stopping ointment too early can cause the incision area to become dry and irritated. This may increase discomfort, delay healing and raise the risk of scarring or infection. Dry scabs can also form, which may pull on the healing skin and affect cosmetic results.
For this reason, it is important to follow your surgeon’s recommended timeline rather than stopping as soon as the area looks better.
How Often Should Ointment Be Applied?
Ointment is usually applied one to three times daily, depending on the product prescribed and your surgeon’s advice. A small amount is gently applied along the incision line using clean hands or a cotton applicator.
Excess ointment should be avoided, as it can blur vision temporarily or cause unnecessary irritation.
When Can You Switch to Other Products?
Once the incision has healed and your surgeon confirms it is safe, you may be advised to stop using antibiotic ointment and switch to a gentle moisturiser or scar-care product. This typically happens after the first one to two weeks.
Scar-management treatments, such as silicone-based products, are usually introduced later once the skin has fully closed.
Signs That Healing Is Progressing Normally
Mild swelling, redness and tightness are normal during the first week after blepharoplasty. As healing progresses, these symptoms gradually reduce. The incision line should look clean, with no increasing redness, discharge or pain.
Ointment helps support this healing process by maintaining a protective barrier over the skin.
When Should You Contact Your Surgeon?
You should contact your surgeon if you notice increasing pain, redness spreading beyond the incision, yellow or green discharge, worsening swelling or changes in vision. These may be signs of infection or delayed healing and should be assessed promptly.
Conclusion
So, how long should you use ointment after blepharoplasty? For most patients, ointment is used for 7 to 10 days, sometimes up to two weeks, depending on healing and surgical advice. Using ointment as directed plays a key role in protecting the incision, preventing infection and supporting smooth recovery.
Always follow your surgeon’s specific aftercare instructions, as they are tailored to your procedure and individual healing needs.
