Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgery technique that removes excess skin from the upper eyelids that can cause a person to appear tired and older. Therefore, after the procedure, patients typically look younger and more awake.

​

    Blepharoplasty is performed in the office and requires only local anesthesia. Hence, you are awake the entire time, and the procedure requires only a few hours. Arrange to have someone drive you home on the day of the procedure, and prepare to return in one week for suture removal. Finally, expect about a week of some swelling and bruising, so consider taking one week off from work if you would be concerned about your appearance.

​

    To decrease discomfort and anxiety, consider taking Valium (5 mg) forty-five minutes before the procedure. Tell your doctor if you wish to take an anti-anxiety medicine. If you do take Valium, you will need a ride to and from the office.

​

    Do not discontinue blood thinners if they have been prescribed by your physician, especially if you have had a heart attack, stroke, or clot. Aspirin, Coumadin (warfarin), Plavix (clopidogrel), and Pradaxa (dabigatran) are common blood thinners. If you have never had a heart attack, stroke, or blood clot, and you are taking aspirin for other reasons, you may consider stopping it two weeks before surgery and restarting it one week after surgery. Ask your doctor if this is acceptable in your situation before making a decision.

​

    Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines commonly used for headaches and joint pain may increase your risk for bleeding. These medicines include diclofenac (Arthrotec), ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin), indomethacin (Indocin), meloxicam (Mobic), naprosyn (Aleve or Naproxen), and sulindac (Clinoril). If you have a healthy liver and kidneys, Tylenol is a preferred pain medicine that will not increase your risk for bleeding.

​

    Other supplements that may increase your risk for bleeding include vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, garlic, glucosamine, and fish oil. Please avoid these supplements for up to two weeks before and one week after the procedure.