Why is EKG (+blood tests) required for upper eyelid blepharoplasty under IV sedation based solely upon age with no heart issues?

Thanks for your question!  Most places do have a standard protocol for pre-admission testing which is often dictated by whomever is administering anesthesia.  I would just look at it as an extra precaution to keep you safe.  Also, ask with your specific plastic surgeon why he/she has this recommendation in place.  Good luck!

This issue is a frequent topic of conversation between surgeons and anesthesiologists. While the current trend is away from pre op lab work and EKGs in asymptomatic patients, many Anesthesiologists prefer a baseline EKG and labs for patient safety. In my practice we individualize the need for pre op lab work and EKG based on history and age in consultation with the Anesthesiologist. I would emphasize that this is done for your safety and I would hope that you view it that way. I would discuss it with your surgeon.

Age is one of those elements in the history.  Having a baseline EKG is very helpful to use as a basis for comparison to determine if an abnormal EKG at the time of surgery is a new change in the EKG or something that was previously present.  Yes, there is always the risk of false positive or negative tests.  However, routine screening prior to surgery can be very helpful in advance of elective surgery.  It is hard to argue about getting a CBC prior to surgery where you have a risk of loosing blood.  You did not get a chest X-ray, which was once part of routine testing.  The History and physical is essential, and the CMP (comprehensive metabolic panel) helps identify other issues that might be present but asymptomatic.  Hope that helps.