We only dilate your eyes when needed and try to warn you when booking the appointment if your eyes will be dilated.
Some eye conditions require close monitoring and therefore more visits. Close monitoring allows us to notice any damage or changes before it becomes visible to you. Once the damage is manifested in your vision it is often irreversible.
It is not uncommon for your eyes to be red and even a mild irritation when you start using new glaucoma drops. This may persist for several months as your eyes adjust to the drop. Using Artificial Tear drops in addition to your glaucoma drops may improve this response. If you are using multiple drops remember to wait 5-10 minutes before using the next drop.
For most people, dilation will last between 2-4 hours
We recommend that you bring a drive if your visit includes dilation or laser. Your vision may be blurry for several hours and having a driver will ensure you are comfortable and safe on your way home.
The testing day is only to perform the testing. Separating certain testing from the exam will improve the flow of the clinic and reduce your wait times. It will also allow the doctor an opportunity to review the testing in advance.
Generally the normal range is considered between 6-22 mmHG although this can vary between each person and a pressure within this range does not exclude the risk of glaucoma.
Yes, if you normally take eye drops in the morning you should continue them as scheduled.
You may only use oral medications for high blood pressure.
No, you are to discontinue all glaucoma drops, unless instructed otherwise.
You will be able to travel by airplane four weeks after surgery, unless instructed otherwise.
Even if your vision is clear right after surgery, we ask that you discontinue or significantly limit driving for 2 weeks, to allow the eye time to heal completely.
Yes, in conjunction with your family doctor/internist, you are advised to stop blood thinners for 2 weeks prior to surgery.
We always try to offer an intraocular lens which will eliminate your need for distance glasses. However, reading glasses will be required after cataract surgery.
Sunglasses are always recommended on sunny days!
The eye patch should be worn for 3 hours post-surgery. After that time we ask that you continue to wear the eye shield only while sleeping for 2 weeks after surgery. This will reduce the risk of inadvertent eye contact while sleeping.
NO! You are instructed not to eat anything after midnight the night before surgery.
You are allowed to drink clear fluids up to 4 hours prior to your surgery time but nothing within 4 hours prior to surgery. Eating after midnight will require us to cancel surgery.
Usually no pain killers are necessary after surgery. If you are experiencing mild discomfort, you are advised to take Tylenol. If the discomfort is significant, please call our office to discuss.
This will depend on your occupation. Please verify with our surgical coordinator at the time of your surgical booking so that you will be able to make adequate arrangements.
Generally we ask that you greatly restrict reading related tasks for 2 weeks after surgery.
