How Should I Prepare for Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery?


Cosmetic Surgery Enquiry

Once you have found a surgeon, then you book a consultation with them to see if you are suitable for cosmetic eyelid surgery. During this appointment, they will ask you what you expect to get from the surgery and they will give you their professional opinion by physically examining your eyes. They will examine the area they will operate on as well as test your vision and usually your tear production. You will also be asked about your medical history and it is important that you mention any medical conditions you have and any medication you are on as they might affect your surgery.

When you have set a date for your surgery, you will be given instructions for preparation for your surgery. These will depend on the type of anesthesia you are having.

In the weeks before surgery:

Make sure you maintain a healthy diet to ensure that you a physically healthy before your surgery. You will need to cut back on any alcohol intake and if you smoke you must stop at least 6 weeks before your surgery. Smoking can affect how effectively you clot, so you are at risk if you undergo surgery and still smoke. Likewise, you must not take vitamin E, aspirin or ibuprofen when you near the date of your surgery as they can cause prolonged bleeding. Excessive bleeding can be a big problem in surgical procedures so you don't want to aggravate the situation.

On the day of your surgery:

If you are going to be put under general anesthesia, you will be told that you will need to fast for a certain period of time before your operation. This means you will not be able to drink or eat for a period of time leading up to your surgery. It is also advised that you wash and clean your face so that the area is as clean as possible to help reduce the risk of infection. You will be wiped with antiseptic prior to your operation so this is just an extra precaution.

Be prepared for after your surgery

After your surgery, you will not be able to drive as your vision will be impaired for a short period of time due to the swelling that occurs. It is important that before your surgery, you arrange for someone to collect you after your operation to take you home. Ideally, it would be worth asking someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours after the surgery, especially if you have had a general anesthetic as you can be a bit disorientated and in pain so having someone there to help you is useful.

Make sure you have all the contact details for your surgeon, in case there is an emergency after the operation or you fear there may be a complication. It is also a good idea to stock up on gauze pads and cold compresses as well as over the counter painkillers as these will make you more comfortable after the operation.

Further Articles