A type of eye disease that many people overlook is diseases affecting the eyelids, such as drooping eyelids, sagging eyelids, inward-turned eyelids, and outward-turned eyelids. These conditions can partially obstruct vision and may cause chronic eye health problems in the future. Eyelid surgery can restore the eyelids to normal, not affecting vision, and also improve appearance.
Preparation Before Eyelid Surgery
- Patients must inform the staff about all medications, vitamins, and supplements they are taking, as well as any underlying diseases and drug allergies.
- Inform about any history of eye injuries, eye surgeries, recent filler or Botox injections, and any past or current eye diseases to the staff.
- Prepare photos of eyes you like or photos of yourself when you were younger to discuss with the doctor, so the doctor understands the desired treatment outcome.
- Follow pre-surgery instructions regarding behavior, food, and medications to avoid before surgery.
- Avoid blood thinners and painkillers, but paracetamol is allowed.
- Avoid all supplements at least 2 weeks before surgery, but vitamin E can be taken as usual.
- Avoid garlic and shrimp paste at least 2 weeks before surgery.
Preparation on the Day of Eyelid Surgery
- Eat and take regular medications as usual.
- Avoid wearing jewelry and bras with underwire.
- Avoid drinking tea or coffee on the day of surgery.
- Have someone accompany you to take care of you after surgery.
- Avoid makeup but you may apply moisturizer and sunscreen.
- If you feel dizzy or faint, inform the doctor and nurse immediately.
Post-Eyelid Surgery Care
- Sleep with your head slightly elevated and apply cold compresses to the operated eye for about 3 days.
- Patients will receive a wound care kit for cleaning the surgical site.
- Use a cotton swab soaked in solution to gently clean blood and dirt from the wound 2-3 times a day or whenever dirty, then apply or instill the medication prescribed by the doctor.
- Take all prescribed medications until finished. If any abnormal symptoms occur, stop taking the medication and see the doctor immediately.
- Avoid makeup, exercise, heavy lifting, or spa treatments for 2 weeks after suture removal.
- Avoid salty foods and seafood.
If You Experience These Symptoms After Eyelid Surgery, See an Ophthalmologist Immediately
- Severe eye pain or difficulty opening the eyes.
- Decreased vision or double vision.
- Fresh bleeding from the surgical wound shortly after surgery.
- Sudden increased swelling and redness of the surgical wound or pus discharge from the eye.
