Eyelid Surgery Consultation: The Pre-Op Assessment
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Once we have determined that a blepharoplasty (also known as an eyelid surgery) is right for you, a few dates will be scheduled. The pre-op, the surgery itself, and a post-op will all need to get on the books to ensure the best possible outcome for you.
Why do you need a pre-op for eyelid surgery? This appointment is key to ensuring that you are physically ready and able for the surgery but also to go over everything you need to know to be best prepared and successful in achieving the results you are looking for.
What happens at the eyelid surgery pre-op?
When you come in for your pre-op assessment for your blepharoplasty, we go over many of the standard things you are used to at any medical appointment. We will check your blood pressure and pulse, listen to your lungs and heart, and go over your medical history. We will want to know all medications you are currently, so please be sure to bring an updated list- or the actual bottles if you forgot to do so in advanced and are running out the door! Your lifestyle habits- drinking, smoking, diet, etc. will all be discussed as well.
Screening questions specific to your eyelid surgery will be asked of you. There is more that one kind of blepharoplasty, so we may ask you different questions than someone you may have know to have the surgery already. Each patient is unique in their history and body, and we want to go over as much as possible in advance to ensure no surprises.
The nurse and/or doctor will talk with you about what exactly will happen day of the eyelid surgery. We will take a close look at the area to be worked on as well to map out our plan and take notes. Making sure you are comfortable is key, so at this time we can also answer any questions you may have.
All of this is to help determine your health’s current state to ensure you are medically able to have the surgery conducted. In addition, we will then be able to go over exactly what you will need to do in advance of the eyelid surgery. Things like fasting at least 6 hours prior, cutting out smoking and cutting down drinking, and having meals and chores ready in advance to make the post surgery easier on yourself, will all be discussed.
Making sure you have a ride home and someone who can accompany your for the following 24 hours post surgery is also a must. It is important to have a companion with you to make sure if anything does have a hiccup, someone is there to help and monitor you.
We want to make sure you are very capable of a full and fast recovery by setting you up for success. This includes having a healthy diet before and after your eyelid surgery. Remember, what you eat fuels your body! Your recovery has a direct correlation to what fuel you are giving your body.
Once the pre-op is complete, you will feel fully equipped for your future surgery. You will have the guidelines to follow to prep yourself well in advance. The biggest goal is to ensure you are confident and comfortable and our team feels the same for your best results!