Recovery after any surgery can cause anxiety for a lot of patients. However, watching television can be a calming activity that provides a sense of normalcy and routine. This is why there are often TV screens in hospital rooms, waiting rooms, and doctor’s offices. Watching TV allows us to “zone out” in times of stress and uncertainty. Despite this, it is important to follow certain guidelines that will allow your eyelids to heal properly and support your long-lasting, transformative cosmetic results. Read on to learn more.
Guidelines for Safe TV Watching After Blepharoplasty
While watching TV is a permitted activity after eyelid surgery, it should be done in moderation. Too much screen time can strain the eyes and inhibit proper healing. It's recommended that you take regular breaks from looking at screens. Additionally, it’s a good idea to turn down the brightness on your devices. This helps to lessen the discomfort of staring at bright screens for entertainment.
Immediately after surgery, you should wear sunglasses to protect against the brightness of the sun. While you may look funny doing so, you can also wear sunglasses while watching TV! In this case, you’ll focus more on listening to the TV than watching it, but the experience can be entertaining and calming while still ensuring your eyes are protected from glare and that you have the time and space to recover well.
Lastly, the position of your television set also matters. Make sure you are watching your shows and movies at eye level so you don’t have to strain to see the screen, and you don’t need to move your eyes excessively. You should try to keep the eyelids as still as possible. Sitting at least five or six feet away from the television set is also recommended.
Post-Surgery TV Watching Tips at a Glance
- Avoid watching TV for the first few days after surgery
- Limit viewing time to around 30 minutes
- Wear your sunglasses while watching your shows
- Rest your eyes if you feel any strain
- Sit five or six feet away from the TV
- Make sure your TV is at eye level
- Turn down the brightness on your device
- Use a screen time calculator to stay on top of your TV time
How Soon Can I Watch TV After Blepharoplasty?
As mentioned earlier, watching TV after surgery is allowable. However, doing so within certain timeframes will ensure your recovery progresses smoothly and no complications arise. Usually, you will need to avoid watching TV for the first day or two after your procedure. Excessive screen time can dry out the eyes, causing discomfort. Once you have reintegrated television watching into your day, try not to watch for more than a half hour at a time. Alternate looking at screens with taking gentle walks in nature or spending time with loved ones and friends. Enjoying alternatives to television, like eating a delicious meal or listening to music, can be just as rewarding, albeit in a different way. Phones and laptops typically come with screen time calculators so you can keep track of your total TV-watching hours and adjust your habits accordingly. Always listen to your body and rest your eyes if you feel any discomfort or strain.
Want to Learn More About Blepharoplasty in Long Island and NYC? Contact Alizadeh Cosmoplastic Surgery Today!
Television today has become a haven for mainstream stars, powerful writing, and emotional dramas that touch on universal themes. After eyelid surgery, you may be eager to keep up with your favorite shows and derive comfort from engaging in your normal TV-watching routine. While some amount of television-watching is permissible, take care to follow your provider’s guidelines and don’t strain your eyes. By making small changes like adjusting your TV’s brightest, sitting five or six feet away from your TV, and only watching TV for around 30 minutes at a time, you can still enjoy your favorite pastime while making sure your incisions heal properly, and your recovery journey is free from complications.
Dr. Alizadeh is an award-winning, board-certified plastic surgeon known for his artistry in rejuvenating the delicate region of the eyes and upper face. Contact his office today to schedule a private consultation and learn more about why Dr. Alizadeh is considered among the most trusted cosmetic authorities in and beyond Long Island and New York City, NY.
Check Out Our Blepharoplasty Before & Afters
