Preparing for Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

By Gary Motykie, MD

Preparing for Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) After a patient has made the decision to undergo eyelid lift plastic surgery, they will need to do some preparation in advance. A comprehensive preparation plan, according to the surgeon’s advice, will lead to a safer and more successful procedure with favorable results.

During the pre-operative consultation, the patient should closely interact with the plastic surgeon and follow their instructions and suggestions.

They should ask questions wherever they have any concerns during the preparation phase. Experienced cosmetic surgeon Dr. Gary Motykie provides eyelid surgery to patients in Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and surrounding communities.

Weeks before the Surgery

In case the patient smokes, the surgeon will ask them to quit smoking for a few weeks prior to the eyelid surgery. The patient will have to continue to avoid smoking post-surgery as well for a few days as smoking can interfere with the flow of blood and create impediments in the healing process. The patient should reduce their alcohol consumption a few days prior to the eyelid procedure.

If the patient takes blood thinners such as aspirin or vitamin E supplements, they will have to stop taking these for a minimum of 1 to 2 weeks prior to the eyelid procedure. The patient will also have to avoid taking certain herbal supplements such as ginseng during the preparation stage to decrease the risk of bleeding.

Furthermore, the surgeon may make adjustments to the schedule of specific prescription medications in consultation with the physician. They may recommend safer alternatives for certain medicines. In the weeks prior to the procedure, the patient should consume a well-balanced diet and include more lean proteins in their diet.

Advance Arrangements

To ensure that the initial recovery phase is comfortable, the patient can undertake some basic preparatory steps in advance. The patient should stock up on the following necessary items at home before the procedure:

Groceries for the first week after the surgery
Ice cubes
Extra pillows to elevate the head
Clean bowl for cold water
Bottle of artificial tears
Plastic bags to make ice packs
Sterile gauze pads

The patient should arrange for a responsible person to drive them home post-surgery. They may also require a friend or relative to stay with them for the initial 1 or 2 days after the eyelid lift plastic surgery. Alternatively, the patient could consider hiring a professional nurse to help them with aftercare.

For about eight hours prior to the surgery, the patient should not eat or drink anything (if the procedure is to be performed using general anesthesia). They should get sufficient sleep and make sure that they are well-rested on the night prior to the procedure. The surgeon may also prescribe a calming medicine to address any anxiety before the surgery.

The Day of Surgery

The following suggestions can help on the day of the procedure:

Wash hair and eyebrows properly
Do not wear any cosmetics or makeup
Do not wear contact lenses, jewelry or false eyelashes
Wear clothes that are comfortable and loose

The patient may take necessary prescription meds in consultation with the surgeon on the morning of the surgery. Dedicated cosmetic surgeon Dr. Gary Motykie receives patients from Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and other cities and communities in this section of The Golden State for eyelid surgery.

Click here for Virtual Consultation