If you are considering eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, preparation is an important part of your treatment journey. Whether you are having upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or a combination of both, understanding how to prepare can help you feel more confident before the procedure.
Eyelid surgery may be performed to address concerns such as excess skin, drooping upper eyelids, puffiness, and under-eye bags. However, every patient is different, which means preparation and aftercare should always be based on personalised medical advice.
At Incisions Clinic, patients are guided through the consultation, preparation, procedure, and recovery process to help them make an informed decision.
Start With a Detailed Consultation
The first step in preparing for eyelid surgery is attending a thorough consultation.
During this appointment, you can discuss the concerns you would like to address and explain what you hope to achieve. Your surgeon will assess your eyelids, the surrounding facial area, and other factors that may influence the treatment plan.
The consultation may include a discussion about:
Excess upper eyelid skin
Hooded or heavy-looking eyelids
Under-eye bags and puffiness
Previous eye or facial surgery
Your general and eye health
Your medical history
Your expectations and treatment goals
This assessment helps determine whether eyelid surgery is suitable and which approach may be most appropriate.
Share Your Complete Medical History
Before undergoing any surgical procedure, it is important to provide your surgeon with accurate information about your health.
Be prepared to discuss:
Any medical conditions
Previous surgeries
Eye conditions or treatments
Allergies
Current medications
Vitamins and supplements
Smoking or nicotine use
Certain medications and supplements can affect bleeding, anaesthesia, or healing. Never stop prescribed medication without discussing it with your surgeon or the healthcare professional who prescribed it.
Providing complete information allows your surgical team to identify any factors that may require additional precautions.
Follow Advice About Medication and Supplements
Your surgeon may give you specific instructions about medications, supplements, or other products before surgery.
Some substances can affect blood clotting or interact with medications used during the procedure. For this reason, it is important to follow the instructions provided by your medical team.
Do not make changes to prescribed medication on your own. If you are unsure whether a medicine or supplement should be continued, ask your surgeon or prescribing healthcare professional.
Stop Smoking if Advised
Smoking and nicotine use can affect circulation and wound healing. If you smoke or use nicotine products, your surgeon may advise you to stop for a specific period before and after surgery.
Following this advice is important because smoking may increase the risk of complications and affect the healing process.
Your surgeon can provide personalised guidance about what is required before your procedure.
Arrange Time for Recovery
Although recovery varies between patients, eyelid surgery requires time for healing.
It can be helpful to plan ahead by arranging time away from work or other responsibilities if needed. Swelling and bruising are common during the early stages of recovery, and you may prefer to rest at home while the treated area begins to heal.
Avoid scheduling major events immediately after your procedure. Giving yourself adequate recovery time can help reduce unnecessary pressure and allow you to focus on following your aftercare plan.
Arrange Transportation and Support
Depending on the type of anaesthesia or sedation used, you may not be able to drive yourself home after surgery.
It is a good idea to arrange for a responsible adult to take you home and, if recommended, stay with you during the initial recovery period.
Your surgical team will explain what arrangements are necessary based on your individual treatment plan.
Prepare Your Recovery Space
Setting up a comfortable space at home before your procedure can make the first few days of recovery easier.
You may want to prepare:
Comfortable pillows to help keep your head elevated if advised
A quiet place to rest
Easy-to-prepare meals
Any medications or aftercare products recommended by your surgeon
Clean clothing that is comfortable and easy to wear
Having these items ready before surgery can help you focus on resting rather than organising things after the procedure.
Avoid Wearing Eye Makeup on the Day of Surgery
Your clinic will provide specific instructions about preparing for the day of your procedure.
You may be advised to arrive without eye makeup, creams, or other products around the treatment area. Keeping the skin clean helps prepare the area for surgery.
Follow all instructions provided by your surgeon regarding skincare, makeup, food and drink, and other pre-operative requirements.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
On the day of your procedure, comfortable clothing is usually the best choice.
A top that opens at the front can be easier to put on and remove without pulling clothing over your face or disturbing the eye area after surgery.
You should also avoid wearing unnecessary jewellery or accessories if your clinic advises against them.
Follow Instructions About Food and Drink
Your surgeon or anaesthesia team will tell you whether you need to avoid eating or drinking for a certain period before surgery.
These instructions can vary depending on the type of anaesthesia or sedation being used. It is important to follow them carefully.
If you are unsure about when to stop eating or drinking, contact your clinic before the procedure rather than making assumptions.
Plan for Aftercare Before Your Surgery
Before your procedure, make sure you understand what your recovery plan involves.
Ask your surgeon about:
How to care for the incision area
Whether you will need eye drops or ointment
How to manage swelling and discomfort
When you can shower and wash your face
When you can return to work
When you can exercise
When you can wear contact lenses
When you can use eye makeup
When your follow-up appointments will take place
Understanding these instructions before surgery can make the recovery process feel more manageable.
Prepare Questions for Your Surgeon
It is completely normal to have questions before undergoing eyelid surgery.
You may want to ask about the procedure, the type of anaesthesia, recovery, possible risks, expected results, and the aftercare process.
A good consultation should give you the opportunity to discuss your concerns and make an informed decision.
Some useful questions may include:
Am I a suitable candidate for eyelid surgery?
Which type of blepharoplasty may be right for me?
What results can I realistically expect?
What are the possible risks and complications?
How long might recovery take?
What should I avoid after surgery?
How will my aftercare be managed?
Preparing for Eyelid Surgery at Incisions Clinic
Preparing properly for eyelid surgery can help you approach your procedure with greater confidence. From attending your consultation and sharing your medical history to planning your recovery and following pre-operative instructions, every step plays a role in your treatment journey.
At Incisions Clinic, patients receive personalised advice based on their individual needs and the type of eyelid surgery being considered.
If you are thinking about upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or combined blepharoplasty, book a consultation with Incisions Clinic to discuss your concerns, treatment options, and how to prepare for your procedure.
