Once you’ve set a date for your blepharoplasty procedure, you will probably be waiting anxiously for the day to arrive. In the meantime, you should make sure you are taking all the necessary steps and have everything you need to have a successful procedure and recovery.
The Weeks Before Surgery
In the few weeks leading up to your procedure, you should avoid taking anything that could thin the blood such as Aspirin or ibuprofen. You should also avoid any herbal blood thinners such as ginseng, ginger, garlic, vitamin E, and gingko biloba. Taking a blood thinner could cause more complication during your procedure, more bruising, and prolonged bleeding. It is also important that you avoid smoking and drinking alcohol leading up to your procedure. Make sure you’ve planned to take about a week off work to properly rest and recover.
The Days Before Surgery
As your procedure day gets closer, you will want to make sure you have everything you need for a comfortable recovery at home. This might include a trip to the grocery store for Ziploc bags (for ice packs), pain reliever, artificial tear eye drops for recovery, sunglasses, and any comfort food. It is also very important to have someone to take you home from your procedure.
The Day of Surgery
On the day of your surgery, you should shower and shampoo because you will have some washing restrictions after surgery. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes. Makeup, fake lashes, contacts, and jewelry should not be worn to your procedure. When you arrive at your appointment, talk with your surgeon about recovery and aftercare. Now is the time to ask any questions you have because you might be a little out of it after surgery!
Taking the time before your surgery to fully prepare can help you feel more comfortable going into your procedure and recovery. Contact our office today for more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Dodde.