How to Prepare For Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

Eyelid surgery, medically known as blepharoplasty, is an effective treatment for loose upper eyelid skin, under-eye bags, and wrinkles and fine lines around the lids by eliminating excess skin and fat. The patient should prepare well for the plastic surgery to accomplish safe and successful results. 

During the initial consultation, the surgeon will offer the patient instructions on blepharoplasty preparation. Well-prepared patients typically feel more confident and enjoy higher levels of satisfaction. 

These patients are also able to cope with the procedure in a better manner as well as enjoy a relaxed recovery period. 

plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim provides blepharoplasty to patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and surrounding communities. 

Informing the Patient

The surgeon will inform the patient about the various possible eyelid surgery techniques and treatment alternatives available to the patient. The patient should unhesitatingly ask the surgeon questions or express their doubts at the blepharoplasty procedure and the surgeon’s credentials. The surgeon will try to address the patient’s questions in an honest and transparent manner. 

Medical Assessment

The surgeon will evaluate the patient’s health records, eye anatomy, degree of skin laxity in the lower and upper eyelids, the eyebrows and forehead region, and the skin texture and tone at the time of the initial consultation. 

Additionally, they will check for any signs of infection in the eye region. At this time, the patient should volunteer information about any underlying medical conditions that they may have. 

Full Disclosure

The patient should inform their surgeon if they have undergone any eye surgeries previously, including LASIK, or have experienced any significant eye conditions. In addition, they should tell the surgeon about all prescription and non-prescription medications that they currently use along with their lifestyle behaviors.  

Pre- and Post-Operative Care Guidelines

The surgeon or their team will offer the patient detailed preparation guidelines for the blepharoplasty. Patients who are working professionals should account for a minimum of one week of leave from their workplace to recover from the eyelid surgery. Non-working patient should also schedule their social engagements accordingly. 

The patient should ask a responsible person to drive them home following the cosmetic surgery procedure as well as arrange for aftercare for a few days if required.

Avoid Smoking and Certain Drugs

In case the patient smokes, the surgeon will ask them to quit smoking for a specified duration before and after the procedure. They may ask the patient to stop the use of blood thinners such as aspirin and NSAIDs or specific herbal supplements or vitamin E. They may also alter the schedule of prescription drugs in discussion with the prescribing physician. 

Practical Arrangements Before the Surgery

If the patient feels that aftercare is necessary for the first few days of the recovery period after the eyelid surgery, they should arrange for it ahead of the procedure. Additionally, they should undertake any vital home or work-related tasks beforehand to enjoy a stress-free and relaxed recovery phase. 

Patients may also create a recovery kit at home, including the following items:

• Prescription medicines and antibiotics
• Gauze bandages 
• Extra pillows
• Loose-fitting, front-open clothing
• OTC medications

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. David Kim receives patients from Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and nearby areas for blepharoplasty.

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim.  Click here to contact us today.

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.