14 days before surgery
For all minor procedures such as punctoplasty or eyelid biopsy, there is no need to stop your usual medications.
For all other lid/lacrimal/orbital procedures, the following applies:
- Avoid drinking alcohol, particularly in excessive amounts as this may thin your blood in a similar way to aspirin.
- Stop all herbal medications including: Echinacea, ephedra, gingko balboa, ginseng, kava, St John’s wort, valerian (which is contained in virtually all sleeping remedies), and green tea. Also reduce/stop your intake of ginger and garlic.
- Stop aspirin and clopidogrel (with the agreement of your General Practitioner)
- Warfarin: the INR level should be at or below 2.0 on the day of surgery. The warfarin level is usually adjusted 3 days before surgery as needed.
- If you take anticoagulants because you have cardiac problems, atrial fibrillation, or have had a stroke or deep vein thrombosis, it is important that you liaise with your General Practitioner, anticoagulation nurse and cardiologist or haematologist before you stop your medications.
2 days (48 hours) before surgery
Stop Apixaban
One day before surgery
NSAIDs e.g. ibuprofen, neurofen, flurbiprofen, diclofenac. These all affect blood clotting. Stop 24 hours before your surgery.
Newer anticoagulants:
- Rivoxabaran – stop one day (24 hours) before surgery
- Dabigatran - stop one day (24 hours) before surgery
On the day of surgery
Have a good wash including a hair wash
Take your prescribed medications as normal up to and including the day of surgery. In particular, take your blood pressure medication with a small amount of water.
If you are having sedation or general anaesthetic, you will need to fast (no food/water/other drinks) for 8 hours before your operation.
Remove all make-up and jewellery
Make a note of any allergies you have and your current medications and bring this with you on the day of surgery
You will be provided with towels and basic toiletries however you should bring toothpaste and any other lotions or skin care that you may wish to use, to make your stay more comfortable
You are also advised to bring some easy reading material to help pass time while you await your procedure
Remove your contact lenses before any procedure
We advise that you travel to the hospital with a friend or relative if you can.
You should arrive one hour before your scheduled surgery in order to allow time to admit you and prepare you for surgery.
