The patient should prepare themselves adequately in the weeks preceding eyelid cosmetic surgery. Thorough preparation will help to ensure a safe, effective, and satisfying eyelid surgery procedure. During the initial consultation, the surgeon will provide detailed guidelines about preparing for the procedure.
Dr. Bram Kaufman is a board certified plastic surgeon providing eyelid surgery and various other surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures. Patients in Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Cleveland, OH, and surrounding communities have an opportunity to receive eyelid surgery from Dr. Kaufman.
Weeks Preceding the Surgery
In the weeks leading up to eyelid cosmetic surgery, the patient will be required to completely stop smoking, and continue with this commitment for a few weeks following the surgery. Drinking alcohol must be cut down in the weeks prior to the surgery, if not completely stopped. Smoking can particularly increase the risk of complications and interfere with the healing process. Therefore, it is important to adhere to the surgeon’s instructions about smoking and drinking.
If the patient is taking vitamin E supplements, their use must be stopped in the weeks prior to the eyelid surgery. Additionally, certain herbal supplements such as ginseng should be avoided in this preparatory phase because these may prolong the bleeding after the surgery. For the same reason, the patient must also refrain from using any medications containing aspirin or ibuprofen in the weeks leading up to the surgery.
The surgeon may also require the schedule of prescription drugs to be altered in consultation with the physician. Acceptable alternatives to some of the drugs and supplements may be recommended. Proven plastic surgeon Dr. Kaufman receives patients from Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Cleveland, OH, and nearby areas for eyelid surgery.
The Day before Surgery
A day before the eyelid surgery, the patient should ensure that the following items are stocked at home for the recovery phase:
- Ice cubes
- Clean washcloths
- Clean bowl for cold water
- Plastic bags to make ice packs
- Sterile gauze pads
- Bottle of artificial tears
- Extra pillows to keep the head elevated
- Groceries for the week
The patient should also arrange for someone responsible to drive them back home after the eyelid surgery procedure. Some patients may want to arrange for aftercare for a few days at home, or have a family member or friend stay with them for at least the first 24 to 48 hours. The patient should avoid eating or drinking anything for about eight hours before the surgery.
The Day of Surgery
On the day of the surgery, the patient should follow these simple tips:
- Wash hair and eyebrows properly and take a shower.
- Do not wear makeup or other cosmetics to the surgery center.
- Leave contact lenses, false eyelashes, jewelry, and other non-essential accessories at home.
- Wear comfortable and loose fitting clothes.
If the patient is a diabetic, they should have their vital parameters checked on the morning of the surgery. Essential medications may be taken in consultation with the operating surgeon.
To learn more about cosmetic treatment and procedures or to schedule a consultation by Cleveland Ohio area plastic surgeon, Dr. Bram Kaufman, please contact us at 1-216-778-2245 or click here.