Post-Stye Surgery: Redness, Pain, and Discharge - Ophthalmology

Share to:

After stye surgery


Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask if it is normal for my eye to be red and swollen on the third day after a stye surgery.
I also feel a bit of pain when I touch the eye, and there is discharge from the inner and outer corners of the eye.
Thank you.

Xuanxuan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/29

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello: It is quite common to experience redness, swelling, blinking discomfort, and discharge from the inner and outer corners of the eyes on the third day post-surgery.
These symptoms are typically a normal response and may last for several days or weeks, depending on the severity of the surgery and individual recovery.
However, if the redness and swelling have been progressively worsening over the past three days, it is important to seek medical evaluation promptly.
Here are some recommendations:
1.
Rest: Adequate rest can aid in the recovery of your eyes.
In the first few days post-surgery, try to rest as much as possible and limit activities such as reading, using a computer, or looking at your phone.

2.
Follow your physician's medication instructions: Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antibiotic medications to help alleviate pain and reduce swelling.

3.
Warm compresses: You can dampen a towel or cotton cloth with warm water and gently apply it to the affected area to help reduce redness and discomfort.
However, be careful not to use water that is too hot.

4.
Avoid rubbing your eyes: The eyes are more vulnerable after surgery, so it is important to avoid rubbing them to prevent infection or other complications.

If the above recommendations do not alleviate your symptoms, or if your symptoms worsen, such as experiencing severe pain, high fever, or blurred vision, you should return for a follow-up appointment as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2023/03/29

More Info


After undergoing stye surgery, it is common to experience some redness, swelling, and mild discomfort in the affected eye. These symptoms are generally part of the healing process, especially within the first few days post-surgery. However, it is essential to monitor these symptoms closely to ensure they remain within the expected range of recovery.

Understanding Post-Surgery Symptoms:
1. Redness and Swelling:
- Redness around the surgical site is a typical response to any surgical procedure. It indicates inflammation, which is part of the body's natural healing process. Swelling may also occur as blood vessels dilate to increase blood flow to the area, bringing necessary nutrients and immune cells to facilitate healing.

2. Pain:
- Mild pain or discomfort at the surgical site is expected. This pain should gradually decrease over time. If the pain intensifies or becomes severe, it may indicate complications such as infection or improper healing.

3. Discharge:
- The presence of discharge, particularly if it is clear or slightly yellow, can be normal as the body clears out debris and dead cells from the surgical site. However, if the discharge becomes thick, green, or foul-smelling, it could be a sign of infection, and you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.

When to Seek Medical Attention:
- If you notice any of the following symptoms, it is crucial to reach out to your surgeon or healthcare provider:
- Increased redness or swelling that spreads beyond the surgical site.

- Severe pain that does not improve with over-the-counter pain relief.

- A significant increase in discharge, especially if it is accompanied by a foul odor.

- Fever or chills, which could indicate an infection.

- Vision changes or persistent irritation in the eye.

Post-Operative Care:
- Follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions carefully. This may include:
- Applying prescribed antibiotic ointments or drops to prevent infection.

- Keeping the eye clean and avoiding touching or rubbing it.

- Using cold compresses to reduce swelling and discomfort.

- Avoiding strenuous activities or heavy lifting that could strain the eye.

Conclusion:
In summary, while some redness, pain, and discharge can be normal after stye surgery, it is essential to monitor these symptoms closely. If they worsen or if you experience any concerning signs, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Proper post-operative care and awareness of your symptoms will help ensure a smooth recovery process.

Similar Q&A

Post-Strabismus Surgery: Managing Redness and Discomfort

Hello! Since undergoing strabismus surgery in early December, my eyes have frequently been filled with blood vessels and accompanied by an itchy and sore sensation, with no signs of improvement. After a month post-surgery, I used some eye drops, which helped for a while but then ...


Dr. Wang Zhishun reply Ophthalmology
Hello, are you referring to the area of the wound? If it's red, some people recover quickly while others may take years. Most topical medications can provide relief, and typically, a long-term safe topical solution will be prescribed.

[Read More] Post-Strabismus Surgery: Managing Redness and Discomfort


Post-Sty Surgery Concerns: Understanding Discomfort and Recovery

After the fourth day post-sty surgery, I have been following the doctor's instructions to take antibiotics and apply ointment, but I still feel significant discomfort in my eye, including sensations of soreness, pain, dryness, and itching. The surgery was performed near the ...


Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Generally speaking, after chalazion surgery, it is common to experience some discomfort in the eye, such as swelling, pain, soreness, and dryness, which are all normal phenomena. Typically, these symptoms will gradually subside within about a week post-surgery. The symptom...

[Read More] Post-Sty Surgery Concerns: Understanding Discomfort and Recovery


Post-Eyelid Surgery: Understanding Pain and Recovery After Stye Removal

It has been five days since the chalazion surgery, and I am still experiencing pain. Initially, the pain had diminished by the third day, but now I feel pain even when I blink hard. When I pull back my eyelid, I can still see a lump. My family suggested that I try to squeeze it o...


Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology
Hello, this should not be considered a normal phenomenon; it is advisable to seek medical attention again. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Tsai Wen-Yuan, Director of the Ophthalmology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

[Read More] Post-Eyelid Surgery: Understanding Pain and Recovery After Stye Removal


Understanding Post-Surgery Eye Issues: Redness After Retinal Detachment and Cataract Surgery

Hello doctor, I had retinal detachment surgery on my left eye, followed by cataract surgery a few months later. It's been nearly six months since the surgeries, and I have been using eye drops prescribed by my doctor for lowering intraocular pressure and treating dry eye. Re...


Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Hello Ms. Yu: Redness in the eyes is primarily a response to discomfort in the eyes, and the underlying causes can vary. Simple dry eyes can also lead to this reaction. If you are concerned about elevated intraocular pressure at that moment, it is advisable not to apply any medic...

[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Eye Issues: Redness After Retinal Detachment and Cataract Surgery


Related FAQ

Post-Laser Surgery

(Ophthalmology)

Post-Chalazion Surgery

(Ophthalmology)

Eye Pain

(Ophthalmology)

Bloodshot Eyes

(Ophthalmology)

Post-Scleral Buckle Surgery

(Ophthalmology)

Swelling And Soreness

(Ophthalmology)

Dry Eye Discomfort

(Ophthalmology)

Retinal Detachment

(Ophthalmology)

Corneal Ulcer

(Ophthalmology)

Eyelid

(Ophthalmology)