Postoperative conjunctival chemosis is an uncommon yet uncomfortable complication following non-ophthalmic surgery. Characterized by a blister-like or billowing swelling of the conjunctiva, typically in the lower eyelid, it arises primarily due to irritation and represents a form of ocular inflammation.
We herein describe a 59-year-old woman with a medical history of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, rheumatoid arthritis, allergies, and prior left-eye cataract surgery. She underwent coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), with a total CPB duration of 167 minutes. The procedure was completed without complications.
On the first postoperative day in the ICU, bilateral conjunctival chemosis was observed in the inferolateral region of the conjunctiva. After ophthalmologic consultation and treatment with medications in a head-up position, the chemosis resolved completely within 5 days.
This case highlights that postoperative conjunctival chemosis, albeit rare, particularly after non-ophthalmic procedures, has favorable early and long-term outcomes when promptly recognized and appropriately managed. (Iranian Heart Journal 2025; 26(3): 79-82)