If you have an upcoming eyelid surgery, chances are, you may feel nervous. If you do, that is completely normal. However, you can put your mind at ease by learning what to expect the day of your eyelid surgery, also referred to as blepharoplasty. Before a professional can perform this type of delicate surgery, they must be prepared.
When an individual needs eyelid surgery, there are ways to feel more comfortable about the process. For instance, on the day of your eyelid surgery, you will need payment, completed forms, and proper identification. These are necessary to ensure you receive quality treatment.
Preparing for Eyelid Surgery
Before undergoing eye surgery, several steps must be completed first. For instance, you must schedule an appointment with an eye doctor and provide your accurate medical history. Once a doctor examines your eyelid, they may or may not recommend surgery, depending on its condition.
An eye doctor will perform additional testing during your appointment. Once your exam is complete, your doctor will go over the next necessary steps. If surgery is required, your doctor will provide pre-operative instructions, such as fasting from midnight the evening before the surgery date.
The Day of Eyelid Surgery
On the day of your eyelid surgery, you should arrive at the destination at least 15 minutes prior to your procedure. Once you have checked in with a receptionist, you will be ushered into a procedure room. The eye doctor will review the procedure with you.
The process of this routine surgery includes the following:
- The doctor will once again go over the surgery and answer any questions you have.
- Surgeons will mark the area of the skin to be removed.
- Before any treatment begins, the doctor will apply local anesthesia, if necessary.
- A sedative may be given to the patient prior to the local anesthetic and used to relax the patient and their eyelids.
- The sedative may be given intravenously without the use of breathing tubes.
- Once surgery is completed, you may have a bandage placed over the surgical site.
The day of surgery should not be stressful. After all, you are in good hands with professionals in their field. While there may be some anxiety surrounding treatment, you will likely feel more at ease once the surgeon reviews the process with you beforehand.
Post Eyelid Surgery
Once surgery is completed, patients may experience common side effects. Those who have recently received eyelid surgery may experience the following:
- Swelling – inflammation can occur, creating puffiness
- Bruising – bruises can be reduced by applying ice packs and warm compresses
- Dry or Red Eyes – eye drops can be used, but consult with your doctor first
- Pain – if any pain is experienced, consider over-the-counter medications
In addition to the physical effects you may experience, there are activity restrictions. For example, washing your face should be avoided for at least 1 day following surgery. Rubbing your eyes can spread bacteria or cause infections. Lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 1 week after surgery.
Your surgeon will typically see you 1 week following surgery. During this post-operative check, your surgeon will assess how well the area is healing and provide any suggestions if necessary.
Find Eyelid Treatment
If you have a bothersome area on your eyelid, consider finding treatment. Speaking with an eye doctor can help you learn more about your condition or diagnosis. At EPSoM, we offer an eyelid surgery center for those who need it.
Reach out to our eyelid surgery center today to learn more about the treatment options we can provide.