You can usually shower soon after external DCR surgery, but you should keep soap and water away from the eye and nose incision.
Early showering precautions
In the first days, the wound and any tube are delicate. Gentle washing keeps you clean while protecting healing tissues.
- Shower with your back to the water and keep your eyes closed
- Avoid direct spray onto the operated side of your face and nose
- Do not rub or pick at the incision or tube
- Pat the area dry with a clean towel instead of wiping
- Avoid very hot showers that may increase bleeding
Moving towards normal washing
As bruising and tenderness settle, you can gradually relax these precautions. Your team will advise when it is safe.
- Normal showering is often possible after about a week
- Continue to avoid vigorous face rubbing for longer
- Keep strong shampoos and facial products away from the wound
- Delay swimming pools and hot tubs until fully cleared
- Contact the clinic if redness, discharge, or bleeding increase after showering
