According to studies, blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery is one of the cosmetic surgeries many people frequently request in the US. While most people require eyelid surgery to improve their look, the procedure can accomplish various things. Some people undergo blepharoplasty to improve their peripheral vision while others use it to remove the eyelid bags that make them appear sleepy and tired. If you are planning to have blepharoplasty for whatever reasons, there are various things you should know. Here is a brief overview of seven tips to prepare you for the procedure.
1. Learn the potential benefits and risks of blepharoplasty
It is essential to take some time and delve into the procedure you are just about to undergo. Even if you do not understand most of the technical descriptions, self researching will give you enough insights to make an informed decision. It prepares you to know exactly what to expect from blepharoplasty and what you can do to go through the surgery safely. Your surgeon will also discuss these aspects before you go in for the operation. However, it does not hurt to learn a few things. Besides preparing you for blepharoplasty, the self-exploration will allow you to ask valuable questions and clear any concerns before undergoing surgery.
2. Have a comprehensive eye exam
You need to have a comprehensive eye exam that will assess your overall eye health and vision. The exam involves checking for common eye disorders and diseases, examining your visual acuity, distance and peripheral vision, and testing for age-related degeneration. Your doctor may test for glaucoma, dry eyes, cataracts, low vision, and diabetic related eye disease, among others. The surgical team will request the results of your eye exam to know exactly what they are handling. If the procedure aims to improve your vision, you can qualify for an insurance claim.
3. Consult your doctor about pre-blepharoplasty preparations
Your surgeon should provide insights and instructions on how you need to carry yourself before and after the procedure. This includes the diet you should take, the ingredients you should avoid and the lifestyle changes you need to make. Ask your surgeon for a comprehensive outline of how you should prepare for the surgery. Your doctor will request a private discussion where you will talk about the procedure, expectations, concerns, and facilitation. You should also get an introduction from the surgical team.
4. Stay away from certain medications
Your surgeon will recommend that you stop taking specific medicines, especially those that result in blood thinning. Herbal drugs and supplements that increase bleeding and make it difficult for blood to clot are also ill-advised when going for blepharoplasty. Other medicines that you should avoid when going for eyelid surgery in Chicago, IL include over the counter prescriptions like aspirin and warfarin, ibuprofen, and naproxen among others. To be safe, you should provide your surgeon with the full list of medications and supplements you are currently taking. You may need to avoid the drugs a month before and after the procedure.
5. Quit cigarettes
It is recommendable to quit smoking for several weeks before blepharoplasty. According to Dr. Allan Wulc, Philadelphia’s leading cosmetic eye surgeon, smoking can prolong the recovery process and increase the risk of complications. Therefore, it is essential to quit several weeks before and abstain for several other days after the procedure.
Moreover, anesthesia is much safer for nonsmokers as their organs function more optimally. You can also abstain from other forms of tobacco such as vaping and nicotine patches to be on the safe side. According to research, quitting cigarettes can help to prevent post-surgery complications.
6. Lifestyle changes
Following your identification as a suitable candidate for blepharoplasty, there are various lifestyle changes you will need to make. This includes avoiding makeup, creams, perfume and lotion especially on the day of the surgery. If you wear contact lenses, consider switching to contact glasses a few weeks before and after the surgery. You will probably be exhausted and in some form of pain. You will also be unable to perform various errands and need to take time off work. Planning your recovery and having someone to assist you with the daily chores will smoothen the process.
7. Plan your transportation to and from the hospital
This should be a no brainer. After the surgery, you will not be in the best condition to drive. Eyelid surgery is an outpatient procedure, meaning you will be leaving the hospital as soon as the operation is over. You should plan for your transportation back home since you won’t be able to do it yourself. It is also highly advisable to have someone take you to the hospital. This will keep you comfortable and relaxed enough for the procedure. The surgeon will also want you in early and without any facial makeup or lotion. You should also plan your transportation to other places that you might need to visit after the surgery.
Conclusion
There are other minor preparations you can do before going in for eyelid surgery. However, most of them are in the categories above. Your priority should be to choose credible, reputable surgeons for the task. It is also crucial to follow all the preparation instructions your team provides. If you have any fears or concerns, make sure you inform your doctor. Pay special attention to the lifestyle changes you may need to speed up recovery.
