How high should my pillow be after eyelid surgery?
Sleeping with the head raised about 30 degrees — two stacked pillows or a wedge — helps swelling drain during the first one to two weeks.
Gravity is a quiet ally in eyelid recovery. When the head stays above the level of the heart overnight, fluid that would otherwise pool around the eyes drains toward the body instead. That is why surgeons routinely ask patients to sleep propped up for the first week or two.
Setting up for sleep
Aim for roughly a 30-degree incline: two firm pillows, a wedge pillow, or a reclining chair all work. Supporting the shoulders as well as the head keeps the neck from bending sharply and prevents you from sliding flat overnight.
How long to keep the elevation varies from patient to patient with how quickly morning puffiness settles. If your eyes are still noticeably fuller on waking after two weeks, mention it at a follow-up consult so a specialist can review the cause.
MediIndex articles are for general information only and are not medical advice, diagnosis, or advertising. Outcomes vary by individual — consult a board-certified specialist for personal decisions.