Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What types of procedures do you offer?

A. Our offerings include cataract removal, YAG laser surgery, cornea transplants, refractive lens exchange, plastic/cosmetic procedures and reconstructive surgery. All of our physicians are board certified in Ophthalmology by the American Board of Ophthalmology.

Q. How long will the procedure take?

A. Depending on the type of procedure you have done, the time varies among patients. Please ask your doctor the average amount of time your type of scheduled procedure takes.

Q. Why do I have so many papers to sign?

A. As a certified and licensed facility, there are many federal, state and accreditation regulations that we must follow. These require us to document your knowledge of certain aspects of your care, which requires your signature.

Q. What about insurance and other financial information?

A. We accept cash, check or credit card (MasterCard or VISA). If your insurance does not pay 100%, we require the patient or responsible party to pay for the amount of your unmet deductible, co-insurance and any co-payment. Cases that are not covered by insurance require full payment on or before the date of the procedure, unless other financial arrangements are made in advance.

Q. Will I talk to my surgeon before my surgery?

A. You will meet with your surgeon prior to the day of your planned procedure. This is the time to ask any questions you may have and to be sure you fully understand the purpose of the procedure, as well as expected outcomes.

Q. May I eat or drink on the day of my exam or surgery?

A. You should not eat or drink or use tobacco products after midnight the night before your procedure, unless told otherwise.

Q. What should I bring with me to the center?

A. Bring any documents from your doctor, case for your eyeglasses or contact lenses, your insurance card and form of payment. Wear comfortable, loose clothing and low-heeled shoes. Please do not wear contact lenses, make-up, body lotion, perfume and other cosmetics. Leave all jewelry and other valuables at home.

Q. Are family members allowed to be with me during the procedure?

A. Family members are not usually allowed into the procedure room or operating room for safety and sterility reasons, unless needed for translation purposes.

Q. What happens if there is a complication during my surgery?

A. In the highly unlikely event that a surgical complication does arise that needs specialized treatment, the patient is immediately transferred to the nearest hospital.

Q. How will I feel after surgery?

A. You may feel sleepy, dizzy and/or forgetful and have general muscle aches from the medications given to you during your operation. These feelings will improve as time passes. You also may have some discomfort after your surgery. The nurses will give you medication to make you feel better. Mild nausea is also common after anesthesia. If it persists and you cannot keep fluids down, please call your doctor.

Q. What time can I expect to go home?

A. Recovery time varies for each patient depending on the type of procedures, the response to anesthesia and the ability to tolerate liquids. Most patients are discharged after anywhere from 15 minutes to two hours.

Q. Do I need someone to take me home?

A. Yes. Your procedure may be canceled if you have not arranged for a responsible adult to take you home. Also, we cannot discharge a patient via taxi.

Q. How will my family/friend know when and where to pick me up?

A. We prefer that a family member or friend remain in the center’s reception room during your procedure. When you are ready to go home, your nurse will take that person to the discharge area and give detailed instructions regarding your procedure and recovery.

Q. Will someone explain to me what I should do when I get home?

A. Before you are discharged home, your discharge instructions will be reviewed with you and your family member by the nurse caring for you. All of your questions will be answered before you go home. Always feel free to call your surgeon for any questions or problems.

Q. Do I need someone to be with me the first night home?

A. We do recommend that you have someone stay with you on your first night home.
If you cannot have someone stay with you, it is a good idea to make arrangements to have someone nearby who you can call should you need help. A member of our staff will make follow-up contact with you within days of your procedure to see how you are doing.

Q. If I have a problem when I am at home after business hours, whom should I call?

A. You should call your doctor’s office. If it is an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.