Evaluation of anxiety and knowledge levels before blepharoplasty surgery: A cross-sectional study

This study aimed to evaluate preoperative anxiety levels and surgical knowledge in patients. Undergoing blepharoplasty using a structured questionnaire. The study included patients who can communicate effectively and who voluntarily participated. Data were collected through an information form and the Spielberg State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). The form, developed from the literature, consisted of 26 questions on sociodemographic variables (age, gender, education, marital status, social security, residence, employment, income), medical history (chronic disease, smoking), and preoperative concerns. To assess visual field limitation, patients were asked: "Does ptosis restrict your vision in both directions?" A total of 120 patients were included (mean age 56.03 ± 10.16 years); 80.7% were female, 83.2% married, 40.3% high school graduates, and 44.5% housewives. Most participants (85.7%) had social security; 49.6% lived in a district, and 92.4% with spouse/children. Over half (53.8%) had no chronic disease, while 50.4% smoked. Stress before surgery was reported by 55.9%, mainly related to the surgical environment and fear of postoperative pain (29.1%). Praying was the most common coping strategy (58.1%). The primary reason for surgery was heaviness and visual impairment (57.1%). Most patients (70.6%) received information from their physician, whereas 1.7% received none. Mean STAI-I (state) and STAI-II (trait) scores were 41.97 ± 5.47 and 45.71 ± 6.19, indicating moderate anxiety. Trait anxiety was significantly higher in females (46.46 ± 6.06) than in males (42.45 ± 5.78; P = .007), while state anxiety showed no gender difference (P = .305). Single patients had higher state anxiety than married ones (44.45 ± 3.98 vs 41.47 ± 5.61; P = .008). Trait anxiety was also higher among district residents compared with city residents (P = .001). Educational level, employment, social security, cohabitation, chronic illness, smoking, stress sources, and coping strategies were not significantly associated with anxiety (all P >.05). Preoperative anxiety levels were moderate. Persistent anxiety was higher among female, rural residents, and those with higher education. Evaluating patients' health literacy and providing targeted preoperative education may reduce anxiety and enhance surgical preparedness.