How long after strabismus surgery can you wear makeup?

Nov 19, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Lei

Introduction

In general, when a person can wear makeup after strabismus surgery depends on the wound healing process. Makeup should be avoided during the first 1–2 weeks post-surgery when the wound has not yet healed. After two weeks, if wound healing is progressing well, one may gradually resume wearing makeup, with extra caution around the eye area. It is important to maintain hand hygiene—always wash hands thoroughly before applying makeup—and regularly disinfect eye-area makeup tools. Heavy makeup should be avoided for at least one month after surgery, and gentle makeup removers should be used during cleansing.

Generally, when a patient can start wearing makeup after strabismus surgery depends on the wound healing progress. Makeup should not be worn during the first 1–2 weeks post-surgery while the wound is still healing. After two weeks, if wound healing is progressing well, patients may gradually begin to resume makeup use, with extra caution around the eye area. Detailed recommendations are as follows:

The first 1–2 weeks after surgery are critical for wound healing. Swelling, conjunctival congestion, and even slight discharge may still be present; therefore, wearing makeup is strictly prohibited during this period. Chemical ingredients in cosmetics can irritate the wound and lead to infection. Additionally, friction during makeup removal may cause the wound to reopen, prolong healing time, and compromise surgical outcomes. It is essential during this phase to keep the eye area clean and dry, focusing solely on proper wound recovery.

At the 2-week follow-up visit, if the wound has healed well, swelling and redness have subsided, and there are no signs of infection, patients may begin applying makeup to facial areas away from the eyes. However, eye-area makeup should be delayed an additional 1–2 weeks. When resuming eye makeup, choose gentle, non-irritating products, and avoid waterproof eyeliner or mascara, which are harder to remove. Apply makeup gently, taking care not to touch or rub the surgical incision sites.

Maintain good hand hygiene: always wash hands thoroughly before applying makeup, and regularly disinfect eye makeup tools. Avoid heavy makeup for at least one month after surgery. Use mild, gentle makeup removers and wipe the eye area softly to avoid pulling or tugging on the delicate skin.

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How much does strabismus surgery cost approximately?

Strabismus surgery is generally classified into three types: rectus muscle recession, muscle strengthening procedures, and horizontal muscle vertical transposition. The corresponding costs are as follows: rectus muscle recession, 3,000–8,000 yuan per session; rectus muscle shortening, 3,500–9,000 yuan per session; and horizontal muscle vertical transposition, 4,000–10,000 yuan per session.

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How long does it take to recover from strabismus surgery?

The recovery period for strabismus surgery is approximately 1 to 3 months. Redness, swelling, and foreign body sensation in the eye typically begin to subside within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. Basic visual function usually returns to normal within about 1 month, and stable results are achieved by 3 months. If persistent pain, sudden vision loss, or other abnormalities occur after surgery, prompt medical attention is recommended. The first week after surgery is a critical period for resolving ocular inflammation.

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How long after strabismus surgery can you eat spicy food?

In general, when a patient can eat spicy food after strabismus surgery depends on the healing of the surgical wound. Spicy food should be avoided during the first 1–2 weeks post-surgery when the wound has not yet healed. After two weeks, if wound healing is progressing well, patients may gradually and cautiously begin consuming small amounts. In daily life, in addition to dietary control, it's important to maintain eye cleanliness and avoid rubbing the eyes. Ensure adequate sleep, avoid staying up late and overusing the eyes, and use prescribed anti-inflammatory eye drops as directed by your doctor.

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The eye is still misaligned after strabismus surgery.

After strabismus surgery, if the eye remains misaligned, improvements can be achieved through timely follow-up evaluations, postoperative visual training, adjustment of the recovery plan, medication-assisted regulation, or corrective second surgery. The approach should be tailored according to the postoperative recovery stage and specific underlying causes. If strabismus persists long-term after surgery or symptoms such as eye pain or vision loss occur, prompt medical consultation is recommended.

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Can strabismus surgery be performed while having a cold?

In general, whether strabismus surgery can be performed during a cold depends on the patient's current condition. Surgery is not recommended during the acute phase of a cold; however, it can usually proceed once the cold has resolved or symptoms have significantly improved. Before surgery, it is important to communicate openly with the doctor about recent health status, clearly disclosing the history of the cold and recovery progress. Additionally, take care to stay warm before surgery and avoid re-exposure to cold temperatures that might trigger another cold.

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What dietary restrictions should be observed after strabismus surgery?

After strabismus surgery, patients should avoid spicy and stimulating foods, greasy and high-sugar foods, hard or difficult-to-chew foods, alcoholic beverages, and overly salty foods. Proper dietary control can reduce eye discomfort and promote wound healing and vision recovery. If symptoms such as redness and swelling of the wound, increased pain, or abnormal vision occur after surgery, prompt medical attention is recommended. Spicy and stimulating foods include chili peppers, Sichuan pepper, ginger, garlic, and other spicy ingredients.

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How to prevent recurrence after strabismus surgery

To prevent recurrence after strabismus surgery, it is generally recommended to persist with postoperative visual training, strictly follow medical advice regarding medication, attend regular follow-up visits for treatment adjustments, avoid unhealthy eye-use habits, and pay attention to the development of binocular vision function. After surgery, patients should carry out binocular vision training as directed by their doctor, such as simultaneous perception training and fusion training. These exercises can enhance the coordination ability of both eyes and help consolidate the surgical outcome.

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How long after strabismus surgery can one exercise?

Avoid exercise within 1 week after strabismus surgery. Light activities such as walking may be resumed between 1 to 2 weeks postoperatively. Moderate-intensity exercises like jogging and ball games can gradually be resumed one month after surgery, provided a follow-up examination confirms good recovery. Vigorous exercise is not recommended within the first 3 months. If eye pain, redness, swelling, or vision fluctuations occur after exercising, prompt medical attention is advised.

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