How do I prepare for my blepharoplasty / eyelid surgery ?

This is the all-important preparation period. This is where you need to ensure that you are in the best physical and mental shape for your surgery.

You will have been given a set of guidelines or ‘do’s and don’ts’ before your operation. These will include stopping smoking – if you are a smoker and arranging things at home. You will have to rest for a few days following your operation so ask someone to take over the normal household jobs for a few days. This can be your partner, family member or a friend.

The issue with smoking is that it can affect your ability to heal following surgery. What this means is that your surgical wounds will take longer to heal then that of a non-smoker. It can also increase your risk of complications.

Do not take aspirin, Ibuprofen or anti-inflammatory medication in the weeks leading up to your surgery. This also applies to any ‘over the counter’ medicines such as nutritional supplements. These can affect the body’s healing process and may interact with any medication given to you during or after surgery. Your surgeon will give you instructions regarding this.

Okay, so what do you need to prepare at home before your surgery?

It might help to start by making a ‘To Do’ list. This is where you can list all the things that need to be done and tick these off as you do them.

Here is a list of things to include on your list:

  • Arrange for your partner, friend or member of your family to drive you to the hospital. And ask them to drive you home afterwards. You will be tired and groggy from the general anaesthetic and will not be safe to drive.
  • Avoid any unnecessary bending, lifting or physical activities. These can all increase the blood flow to the eyes.
  • Have everyday items placed within easy reach. This means that tins, bottles, kitchen utensils and bathroom items are all close to hand.
  • Ensure that all your household tasks have been done beforehand. You will not be able to peg out the washing or load the dishwasher after your surgery!
  • If you have a family then ask someone (such as your partner) to look after them for the first few days. This also applies if you have a pet such as a dog or cat. The last thing you need is for a lively two year old or an energetic dog to jump all over you!
  • Obtain an ample supply of painkillers, vitamins and medication. Label these so that you know which to take and when.
  • Prepare meals well in advance which can be frozen and used as and when required. Another option is to buy in frozen or ready prepared meals. It is a good idea to buy plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables as this can help to speed up your recovery.
  • Have a small table or reclining chair within reach which contains your medication, painkillers, bottled water, a decent nightlight and some light snacks.
  • Avoid reading, or watching television for the first week following your surgery. It may be tempting to have the remote control near you but watching television can dry the eyes out so avoid doing this.
    If you wear contact lenses then leave these out and wear dark glasses instead. You will need to do this for the first couple of weeks after surgery.
  • Keep your dressing gown, slippers and nightwear close to hand. You will be very tired and out of sorts following surgery and will just want to sleep during this time. It is a good idea to have blankets or your duvet with you as surgery can make you feel the cold more than usual.

Have your last alcoholic drink a week before your operation.

The day before is when you can do any last minute preparation. This means packing an overnight bag or case with your nightwear, a comfy dressing gown and slippers, toiletries, hairbrush, soft tissues, glasses and glasses case and moisturising body wash/body lotion.

It is a good idea to bring a personal music player such as an MP3 player or iPod. But leave any valuables such as jewellery at home.

Bring any essential medications with you.

You must not eat or drink anything six hours before surgery. It is a good idea to have your last meal at its usual time and then nothing until after your surgery.

Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) Guide Index:

COSMETIC SURGERY TREATMENTS

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