Eyelid Surgery Pre-op Instructions

Eyelid surgery can be performed on the upper or lower eyelids to remove excess fat, dark circles, and loose skin. Depending upon the amount of work to be done, eyelid surgery usually takes about an hour, compared to more complicated cosmetic surgical procedures that may take two hours or more.

This may make patients feel that they do not need to follow comprehensive pre-op instructions since eyelid surgery takes less time than other procedures. The truth is that patients must be just as diligent about following eyelid pre-op instructions as they would with any other type of surgery, whether elective or medically necessary. The staff at Jefferson Plastic Surgery has compiled some pre-op instructions for patients to follow.

Two to Three Weeks before Surgery

Patients should stop any tobacco or alcohol use at this time. Tobacco can dry out the facial skin, and alcohol can increase the risk for excessive bleeding, both during and after surgery. The end result may be less than optimal, with longer healing times and excessive scarring. Aspirin or other NSAIDs may also increase the risk for bleeding. Patients who are taking any blood thinners should discuss the upcoming surgery with their regular doctor in order to coordinate care.

One Week before Surgery

Our staff may have provided patients with prescriptions for antibiotics and painkillers. These should be filled prior to surgery, as the first dose may start on the day of surgery. This is also an excellent time for patients to find a friend or family member willing to drive them to and from the surgery center, as well as stay with them for the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Patients should not drive themselves from the surgery center. Our staff will not let patients leave by either bus or taxi.

Day before Surgery

Take a hot shower, including shampooing and conditioning the hair as normal. Scrub the body thoroughly with antibacterial soap, paying particular attention to the face.

Lay out the clothing for the day of surgery. Clothing should be loose fitting and fasten in the front or back. Any clothing that must be pulled on or off over the head should not be worn. Wear comfortable, flat, slip-on shoes that do not need to be laced, zipped, or buttoned.

Patients should not have anything to eat or drink starting at midnight the night before surgery. Small sips of water may be taken for any necessary medication. Patients who have had food or drink before surgery will have their surgery cancelled or rescheduled for a later date.

Day of Surgery

Below are some do’s and don’ts for the day of surgery:

DO:

• Bring any medical insurance cards if the procedure is to be covered by insurance
• Bring your Social Security card, driver’s license, or other state-issued ID.
• Bring eyeglasses

DO NOT:

• Bring any valuables
• Wear a watch or jewelry (including piercing jewelry)
• Wear any perfume, nail polish, lotion, moisturizer, or facial makeup
• Wear contact lenses (see above about eyeglasses)
• Wear any eyeliner, eye shadow, mascara, or other makeup

Patients who elect to undergo eyelid surgery have a great deal invested in improving their facial features. Our staff has found that patients who follow these pre-op instructions are more likely to be satisfied with the final outcome from their surgery. Contact Jefferson Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation.