Orbital decompression surgery can be a life-changing procedure for people with eye bulging, pressure, or pain, usually caused by thyroid eye disease or trauma. And while the thought of eye surgery can be overwhelming, understanding what to expect and how to care for yourself afterward can ease anxiety and support a smoother recovery.
At Oculoplastic Eye Surgeons of Phoenix, we’re here to guide you through each step of the process. Today, we’re taking a look at what patients typically experience after orbital decompression, plus, how you can properly and safely care for yourself post-surgery.
What to Expect After Orbital Decompression Surgery
After your procedure, you’ll most likely stay overnight at the hospital for observation and monitoring. This helps ensure you’re stable and healing well before returning home.
Once discharged, it’s normal to experience:
- Swelling and bruising around the eyes that may last 10 to 14 days
- Tenderness or soreness near the surgical area
- Temporary double or blurred vision, which should improve as swelling subsides
- Mild nasal drainage or discharge for the first 24 to 72 hours (you can gently wipe your nose and use saline mist to stay comfortable)
- Pain when chewing—stick to soft foods and avoid anything too hard in the first few days
- Fatigue, especially for 2–3 days after surgery, due to general anesthesia
Your surgeon may prescribe pain medication to help manage discomfort. Icing the area (20 minutes on, 40 minutes off) can also help reduce inflammation and ease soreness.
To protect your healing and avoid complications, try to avoid sleeping on the side of the operation, and keep your head elevated while resting. You’ll also want to steer clear of activities that increase facial blood pressure, such as lifting, bending over, or exercising, for the first couple of weeks post-surgery.
How to Care for Yourself at Home
Proper post-operative care can have a big impact on your healing experience. Follow your discharge instructions closely, and don’t hesitate to ask your care team if you have questions. General at-home care tips include:
- Take prescribed pain medication or Tylenol as needed
- Avoid aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications unless directed
- Take your antibiotics or oral steroids exactly as prescribed, until finished
- Avoid rubbing or touching the surgical area
- Continue icing on a schedule for the first few days
- Do not disturb any absorbable material in your nose. If removable packing was used, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled to take it out
When to Call Your Doctor
While mild discomfort is expected, contact your surgeon right away if you experience:
- Pain that isn’t relieved by medication
- Intense or persistent headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- A fever over 100°F
Your health and safety are the top priority. Prompt communication can help prevent complications and ensure peace of mind as you recover.
Orbital Decompression Surgery in Phoenix
Healing from orbital decompression surgery is a process, but most patients find the long-term benefits, reduced eye pressure, better vision, and improved appearance, well worth the recovery period. By following these post-operative care guidelines and listening to your body, you’ll be well on your way to a successful outcome.
Contact Oculoplastic Eye Surgeons of Phoenix at (623) 522-8687 to see if orbital decompression surgery is right for you.
Sources:
https://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/Ophthalmology/oculoplastics/OrbitalDecompression.pdf
https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services/ophthalmology/surgical-treatments/orbital-decompression
