Eyelid surgery is a common cosmetic surgery designed to enhance the appearance of the eyes. It improves the appearance of drooping eyelids, puffiness, and smooths out fine lines and wrinkles. The procedure is long-lasting and takes years off your appearance. The surgery itself is safe, effective, and relatively short. The recovery period is also seamless if you follow your surgeon’s instructions. However, the preparation period is just as important as the surgery and recovery. Below you will find how to prepare for eyelid surgery.

How to Prepare for Eyelid Surgery

Preparing for eyelid surgery can improve your surgical outcomes. There are several evidence-based strategies to effectively prepare for surgery. Consider the following tips before your eyelid surgery.

Follow Your Doctor’s Pre-surgical Instructions

Your surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to prepare for surgery. Follow these exactly. There are some instructions that are standard for all patients. However, your surgeon knows your unique health needs, so they may add some things that are specific to you. Read the instructions as soon as possible. Some preparations may need to begin days or weeks in advance. Be sure to follow the instructions exactly and ask any questions well in advance of your surgery.

Avoid Smoking and Alcohol Use

Many surgeons require you to be a nonsmoker to move forward with surgery. If you do smoke, it is important to disclose that to your surgeon as early as possible. If you are a smoker, your surgeon will require that you stop smoking and using nicotine products at least one month before surgery. This is necessary to promote healing and reduce any complications. You should also avoid alcohol for at least one week in advance of surgery. Alcohol can cause dehydration and impact the effectiveness of anesthesia.

Set Up Your Recovery Area

After surgery, you need to focus on recovery. Set up your recovery space in advance so you are prepared. Find a quiet place in your home to lie down. You need to stay elevated, so have some extra pillows to prop you up. Purchase ice packs early, as you will need them as you recover. Be sure to wrap them in clean cloths to protect your skin and maintain optimal hygiene. Prepare easy-to-eat meals so you just have to heat them up. You should also get all of your medications in advance so you do not have to wait. Lastly, set up some entertainment so you are not bored as you recover. A good book, music, or show can make the recovery process so much smoother.

Determine Fasting and Food Guidelines

In many cases, you should avoid eating starting at midnight the night before your surgery. This is especially true if you are going under general anesthesia. Some surgeons may allow clear liquids until a few hours before surgery. However, be sure to check your pre-surgery instructions and address them with your oculoplastic surgeon. The day before surgery, avoid heavy meals, caffeine, or anything that could cause stomach upset. Eat meals you are familiar with and hydrate well.

Prepare Transportation

Eyelid surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, so you are often able to go home the same day. It is important to have transportation set up well in advance. A trusted friend or family member should drive you to and from surgery. In fact, it is required before the surgeon moves forward with surgery. Have your friend or family member stay with you the first few days after the procedure. They can administer your medications, monitor your symptoms, and help you as you recover.

Top Oculoplastic Surgeon

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your eyelids, contact the team at McCracken Eye and Face today to schedule your consultation!