While preoperative bloodwork and medical clearance are standard considerations when preparing for surgery, there are other practical aspects that may not be immediately apparent. This includes having certain supplies on hand and being mindful of dietary choices. Here are some specific tips I often share with my patients undergoing eyelid surgery.
Typically, I have all my patients discontinue non-medically necessary blood thinners. Blood thinners can include over-the-counter medications, supplements, food, and beverages.
For example, many common over-the-counter pain killers thin the blood. These include aspirin, ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, Excedrin, naproxen, and Aleve. One notable exception is acetaminophen (Tylenol) – this medication does not thin the blood.
There are also many types of foods, beverages, and supplements that can also thin the blood (for example): garlic, ginger, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, grapeseed extract, dong quai, multivitamins, Vitamin E, fish oil, krill oil, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and feverfew.
Another often overlooked beverage category that contains blood thinners are energy drinks. I have all my patients discontinue energy drinks at least two weeks before surgery because many contain significant amounts of natural blood thinners.
The reason that plastic surgeons are concerned about blood thinners is that they increase the risk of intraoperative and post-operative bleeding, raising the risk of hematoma formation. Hematomas can compromise aesthetic outcomes and increase the risk of infection.
Make sure to follow your own plastic surgeon’s preoperative advice regarding blood thinners. Deviating from your plastic surgeon’s recommendations can significantly increase intraoperative and post-operative bleeding, raising the risk of hematoma formation. Hematomas can compromise cosmetic outcomes and heighten the likelihood of infection. This is because hematomas are collections of static blood and bacteria thrive in these collections.
Before eyelid surgery, I recommend that my patients focus on maintaining a healthy and nutritious diet. It’s important to ensure adequate protein and essential micronutrients. A well-nourished body is better prepared to heal effectively and promote a smoother recovery process.
I advise my patients to remove their lash extensions before surgery. This is because during surgery the adhesive can seep into the eye and cause irritation. Additionally, having natural nails, rather than gel or acrylics, makes it easier to accurately monitor your oxygen saturation during the procedure. So if you’re due for a manicure, you might want to schedule it for after your surgery.
In addition to filling prescriptions as directed by your doctor, there are several over-the-counter supplies you might consider having on hand. Here’s a list of items to discuss with your doctor at your pre-operative eyelid surgery appointment:
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