Please read and familiarize yourself with these instructions both before and after surgery. By following them carefully, you will assist us in obtaining the best possible result from your surgery. If questions arise, do not hesitate to communicate with us and discuss your questions at any time.

BEFORE THE OPERATION

1)Please refer to the list of medications not to take before surgery. If you are taking any of these medications, it is important that you stop taking any medications on this list at the specified times.

2) If you smoke, please stop at least three weeks before and continue not to smoke until three weeks after your operation. Smoking delays wound healing and can lead to scar formation.

3)Please wash your face the night before and the morning of surgery. Do not wear make-up the day of surgery. It is important that your face, eyelids, and eyelashes be clean prior to the procedure.

4)Please bring all medications we have prescribed with you on the day of surgery. Do not take them beforehand, we will administer these medications just prior to the procedure.

5)Do not wear any clothing that you will need to pull over your head (ie. pullover sweaters, t-shirts, or turtlenecks). Please wear shirts or blouses that button down in the front. You should continue to do this during the first week after surgery as well.

6)It is recommended to bring sunglasses on the day of the procedure so that you may hide your bruising after the procedure and shield your incisions from the sun. Larger sunglasses provide better coverage. It is recommended that you avoid sun exposure for the first month after surgery.

7)It is recommended that you take a week off from work after the procedure. Your first appointment will be approximately five days after the procedure.

8)Please arrange for a companion to drive you home after surgery.

After the Operation

1)Apply ice packs for 20 minutes of each hour for the first two days after surgery. Also, please sleep with your head elevated on two pillows for at least the first two nights after surgery. This will greatly reduce swelling and bruising.

2)Avoid extreme physical activity. Obtain more rest than usual and avoid athletic activities and sexual intercourse for one week.

3)Do not get any incisions wet for the first forty-eight hours. During this time, it is okay to sponge bathe. After that time, you may get incisions wet but do not scrub near any of the incisions. If the area gets wet, gently pat it dry with a towel.

4)Do not swim for two weeks.

5)It is normal for there to be some swelling in the eyes and brows, as well as some discoloration in the area. This usually clears within one to two weeks. In rare instances, some patients may require up to six months for all signs of swelling to resolve.

6)Take prescribed medications as directed. Pain medication is to be taken one tablet every four hours as needed for pain. Pain medication can be constipating, so you should take a stool softener and avoid constipating foods as necessary. Take the antibiotic medication as directed until you have finished the bottle. All medications should be taken with food to avoid upsetting your stomach.

7)After removal of sutures, the skin may be gently cleansed with a mild soap or skin lotion. Eye make-up may be worn at this time unless you are directed otherwise. Use a hypoallergenic formula.

8)For concerns or problems such as bleeding, pain, visual changes, or fever, or to clarify follow-up appointments, notify the Clinic at 510-675-4454. If you experience any complications after office hours, seek an evaluation in the Emergency Room.