After aesthetic procedures in the facial area, particularly in the eyelid region, local cooling is frequently used as a supportive measure in the early post-procedural phase. The aim is to support patient comfort and to accompany typical reactions such as swelling or a feeling of tension.
A comprehensive analysis of clinical studies involving a total of 3,425 patients indicates that cryotherapy may be associated with a moderate reduction in discomfort in the first days after a procedure, as well as with a reduced need for analgesics (1). At the same time, it becomes clear that the effect of cooling depends on the specific procedure as well as on the applied cooling protocol (2,3). Particularly in eyelid surgery, a temporary increase in swelling may occur within the first 24 hours, which is part of the physiological tissue response. In this context, targeted and regular cooling is often used to support subjective comfort during this phase (6).
Controlled cooling methods have also been investigated. Studies in facial and maxillofacial surgery show that continuously regulated cooling systems may be associated with a reduction in swelling and discomfort (4). In addition, there are indications that cooling prior to certain eyelid procedures may be associated with a lower extent of early tissue reactions (5).
In practical application, a structured cooling approach is therefore often recommended. This includes repeated applications at short intervals in the first hours after the procedure, followed by regular applications over the subsequent days. The aim is even and controlled cooling of the treated region.
In addition to frequency, the type of cooling also plays a role. Anatomically adapted cooling masks may enable a more even contact with the periocular region compared to conventional cooling pads. This allows for a more homogeneous distribution of cooling, whereas flat cooling pads tend to act more locally.
Furthermore, an ergonomic design may contribute to a comfortable application and support stable positioning without additional pressure on the sensitive eye area. A larger cooling surface may also enable more comprehensive coverage of the treated areas.
Overall, cooling represents an established supportive measure. The specific application should always follow the individual recommendations of the treating healthcare professional.
References
Muaddi H, Lillie E, Silva S et al. The effect of cryotherapy application on postoperative pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Surg. 2023;277(2):e257–e265. doi:10.1097/SLA.0000000000004987.
Wyatt PB, Nelson CT, Cyrus JW et al. The role of cryotherapy after total knee arthroplasty: A systematic review. Arthroplasty Today. 2021;7:1–7. doi:10.1016/j.artd.2020.12.006.
Karam MK, Moussa MK, Noailles T et al. Postoperative cryotherapy in joints other than the knee: A systematic review of pain, edema, analgesic use, and blood loss. Orthop J Sports Med. 2019;7(9):232596711987387.
Bates AS, Knepil GJ. Systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy of hilotherapy following oral and maxillofacial surgery. Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2016;54(8):851–856. doi:10.1016/j.bjoms.2016.05.012.
Işık B, Suleymanzade M. Is cooling effective before upper lid blepharoplasty? J Plast Surg Hand Surg. 2012;46(3–4):217–220. doi:10.3109/2000656X.2012.671345.
American Academy of Ophthalmology. Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty.
