Protocol for International Patients: Blepharoplasty in Mexico City
Detailed information for international and out-of-town patients traveling to Mexico City for blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) with Dr. Sebastián Diener: preparation, preoperative studies, surgery day and your recovery.
Preparing for your blepharoplasty surgery
If you are planning to have blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) with Dr. Sebastián Diener and are coming from another city or country, it's important to complete your preoperative evaluation with enough time. This evaluation includes lab work and a cardiology or internal medicine review, in addition to your ophthalmology evaluation with Dr. Diener, which includes preoperative clinical photographs.
Required preoperative studies
| Study | Detail |
|---|---|
| Complete blood count | Can be done in your home city or in Mexico City |
| Blood chemistry | 3 or more elements |
| Coagulation times | PT and PTT |
| Electrocardiogram | ECG |
If you bring your results from your home city, we recommend arriving in Mexico City at least 1 day before your surgery. If you prefer to complete the studies here, plan to arrive 2 to 3 days in advance.
Preoperative evaluation
Our coordination team will help you schedule your cardiology or internal medicine evaluation with a trusted specialist, in addition to your ophthalmology evaluation with Dr. Diener at the office in Insurgentes San Borja. We will share the necessary contact details with you once you schedule your surgery.
Documents and medications
Required documents: valid official ID for you and your companion, plus your lab results and electrocardiogram.
Medications: stop anticoagulants, aspirin, anti-inflammatories and supplements such as vitamin E, omega 3, garlic or ginkgo biloba 10 to 14 days before surgery. Continue your regular medications for blood pressure, diabetes or thyroid as usual, unless your doctor indicates otherwise.
Logistics for out-of-town and international patients
| When | What happens |
|---|---|
| 1 to 3 days before | Lab work (if done in Mexico City) and preoperative evaluations |
| Surgery day | Blepharoplasty procedure |
| Up to 10 days after | Recovery and follow-up appointments at the office |
For lodging and transportation recommendations during your stay in Mexico City, see our general guide for international and out-of-town patients.
Surgery day
Please arrive 45 to 60 minutes before your surgery. Blepharoplasty is performed with local anesthesia and sedation, and the procedure takes between 1 and 3 hours. After surgery you will remain in a recovery period at the office before being discharged. You will not be able to drive that day: your companion must arrange your transport, preferably by taxi or Uber, avoiding public transportation.
Recovery and follow-up
You will have two mandatory postoperative follow-up visits: one the day after your surgery and another at 7 days, both at the office. During your recovery it's important to apply cold compresses, take your medications as prescribed, sleep with your head elevated, avoid touching the operated area, and follow the cleaning instructions provided by Dr. Diener.
For at least 3 weeks, avoid intense exercise, prolonged sun or heat exposure, lifting objects heavier than 15 kg (33 lbs), strenuous activity, and alcohol and tobacco consumption.
Information for companions
Your companion must be available throughout the surgery and your immediate recovery, be responsible for your transport back to your lodging, and support you with basic activities during the first few days. If the patient is a minor, a parent or legal guardian must be present with their ID and the minor's birth certificate.
Frequently asked questions about blepharoplasty for international patients
How long does blepharoplasty surgery take?
Between 1 and 3 hours, depending on whether the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both are treated.
What type of anesthesia is used?
It is performed with local anesthesia and sedation.
When will I see the final results?
Initial results are visible within 2 to 4 weeks, although the final result may take 3 to 6 months to fully settle.
Will there be visible scars?
Incisions are made in the natural folds of the eyelid, so they become practically imperceptible once fully healed.
Can I wear contact lenses after surgery?
We recommend avoiding contact lenses for 2 to 3 weeks after the procedure.
Can I fly back to my country after surgery?
We recommend waiting at least 10 days before flying.
Can I work during my recovery?
We recommend resting for 7 to 10 days. If your job allows, you can resume remote activities during that period, avoiding physical exertion for at least 3 weeks.
Do I need an additional budget on surgery day?
It's not common, but we recommend having funds available in case your doctor determines an adjustment is needed during the procedure.
This guide is for informational purposes only. Your treating physician's instructions always take precedence.