All you need to know about Double Eyelid Surgery. What to avoid and what to expect

31 Oct 2025

How to properly recover for the best results after Double Eyelid Surgery.  

Double eyelid surgery is one of the most popular procedures, enhancing the eyes to appear naturally larger, facial dimension, and confidence. However, what must not be overlooked is proper aftercare during the recovery period. Without strictly following the doctor’s instructions, the results may fall short of expectations or even lead to complications later on.

What should you avoid after Double Eyelid Surgery.

To help the eyelids heal into their proper shape, avoiding certain behaviors during recovery is crucial, especially in the first 1-2 weeks. During this period, it’s important to take extra care of yourself and avoid the following:

1. Avoid high heat

Do not use saunas, hot tubs, or take very hot showers, as heat can dilate blood vessels and cause more swelling, redness, or bruising. It may also slow down the healing process.

2. Avoid heavy glasses and contact Lenses

In the early recovery period, avoid wearing heavy glasses that may put pressure on the incision site without you realizing it. Contact lenses should also be avoided temporarily, as inserting or removing them can cause irritation or increase the risk of infection.

3. Do not rub or touch the incision

Avoid touching, rubbing, or pressing around the eyes, as this may cause stitches to loosen, eyelid folds to shift, or wounds to reopen. If you feel itchy or irritated, gently touch the area with a cotton bud or clean gauze instead of scratching.

4. Avoid direct sunlight

UV rays can darken the incision and cause permanent discoloration. Avoid outdoor activities under strong sunlight, and always wear lightweight sunglasses when going outside to protect your eyes and encourage faster healing.

5. Avoid activities that cause sweating

During the early recovery phase, avoid heavy exercise such as running or gym workouts. Excessive sweating can keep the wound moist, raising the risk of infection, while also worsening swelling or slowing the healing process.

6. Avoid sleeping positions on the eyes

In the first stage of recovery, sleep on your back with your head slightly elevated to help reduce swelling. Avoid sleeping on your side or stomach, as unintentional pressure on the eyes may affect wound healing and the shape of the eyelid crease.

7. Avoid Alcohol and Smoking

Chemicals in alcohol and cigarettes directly interfere with blood circulation and the body’s healing process. This may slow recovery, increase scar tissue formation, and affect the smoothness of the eyelid crease. It is recommended to avoid both for at least one month after surgery to ensure effective wound healing and the best results.

8. Avoid medications or supplements that affect blood clotting

Certain medications or supplements, such as fish oil and vitamin E, can increase the risk of bleeding or bruising around the incision. These should be stopped at least one week before double eyelid surgery and avoided during the recovery period.

9. Avoid facial cosmetic procedures

Laser treatments, botox, fillers, or facial therapies that involve pressure or rolling devices should be avoided for 2-3 months after surgery. Such procedures may disturb tissues that are still healing and cause the eyelid crease to shift or fail to form properly.

Foods to avoid after Double Eyelid Surgery.

After double eyelid surgery, recovery doesn’t only depend on proper wound care and rest. Certain foods can slow down healing, trigger inflammation, or increase the risk of complications. During the recovery period, it is best to avoid the following:
 

1. Fermented foods

Fermented dishes such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, or fermented fish are high in sodium, which can increase swelling or cause inflammation. They may also carry a higher risk of bacterial contamination that could lead to infection. These should be avoided for at least 1–2 weeks after surgery.

2. Spicy and Salty foods

Spicy curries, papaya salad, or any overly salty dishes can stimulate blood circulation, leading to prolonged swelling and bruising. Avoiding these in the early recovery stage will help wounds heal faster.
 

3. Seafood and processed foods

Seafood such as shrimp, shellfish, crab, and squid may trigger allergic reactions or worsen inflammation, especially in those with a history of seafood allergies. Processed foods like sausages, ham, and bacon often contain preservatives and high sodium, which can also increase swelling and slow healing.

If you’re looking for a Double Eyelid Surgery clinic that truly understands your concerns and pays attention to every detail from the procedure to post-operative care, look no further than Bangkok Eye Aesthetics (BEA Clinic). Located in Asoke, we are led by ophthalmologists specialized in eyelid surgery.

At BEA Clinic, we prioritize detailed analysis of each case and create a personalized treatment plan to your needs. We also provide a 1 year satisfaction guarantee: if you are not satisfied with the results after swelling subsides, you may return for a revision at no extra cost.
📍Book a free consultation via LINE Official: @beaclinic
📞or call : 064-196-3635

Reference :  (2025, August 1) What to Know About Double Eyelids: Surgical Options, Nonsurgical Techniques, and More. Retrieved August 1, 2025, from https://www.healthline.com/health/double-eyelid