Washing your face after double eyelid surgery

After double eyelid surgery it is best to change how you wash in stages, so the operated area doesn't get wet or rubbed.

Washing in stages

1. Early on — avoid the operated area and wipe only the lower face with a damp towel or cleansing wipes.
2. Around stitch removal — wash gently, avoiding the eye area, as advised.
3. Normal washing — once the area has settled, wash as usual, but pat rather than rub around the eyes.

Timing differs between buried and incisional methods because of stitches and recovery speed. Typically stitches come out at around 5–7 days, and washing and light daily activity are possible after about 2–7 days.

Make-up and contact lenses

• Eye make-up — eyeliner, mascara and the like start once the wound has healed well
• Contact lenses — putting them in pulls on the lid, so they often start later than normal washing
• Lash extensions or perms — these irritate the lid, so later still

Eye make-up is generally possible after about 7–10 days. Contact lenses resume after about 1 week with the buried method, about 2 weeks with incision, and about 1 month if ptosis correction was also done.

Things to watch

• Don't rub or scrub your eyes
• Use a clean towel and pat the eye area dry
• If there is redness, pus or warmth, contact the clinic

Frequently asked questions

When can I wash my hair? Washing with your head tilted back so water doesn't run onto your face is often possible fairly early. Check the exact timing at your appointment.

How should I use eye drops or ointment? Follow the prescribed method and duration, and don't switch to other products on your own.