Frequently Asked Questions
Your physician has recommended that you undergo eye surgery. We are sure you have many questions concerning the surgical procedure and listed below are some of the most commonly asked questions and answers. If further information is needed, please do not hesitate to contact our office and we will be happy to assist you.
Where will my procedure be performed?
Dr. Hall performs surgery at Lakeview Surgery Center. Complete directions to your specific surgical facility will be provided.
Do I need any special testing prior to surgery?
This will be determined by the doctor. If this is required, you will need to see your primary care physician for pre-op testing. This must be done no less than one week prior to surgery.
Can I drive myself home from the hospital?
No. You must have a responsible adult to drive you home from the hospital.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable loose fitting clothing. DO NOT wear make-up, perfume or nail polish. It is also a good idea to leave all your valuables at home such as jewelry, watch, wallet, purse, etc.
Can I eat or drink on the day of surgery?
No. You can have nothing to eat or drink after midnight the night before surgery. This includes coffee, juice and water. Exceptions will be made for late afternoon surgery.
Should I take all my regular medications?
You will be instructed on which, if any, to use on the day of surgery either by your primary care physician and/or Dr. Hall.
DO NOT take aspirin, Aleve, Motrin, ibuprofen, Excedrin or other aspirin-containing products 7 days prior to surgery. You may take Tylenol for pain if needed.
Should I take my regular eyedrops on the morning of surgery?
Unless notified otherwise, use your regular eyedrops on the morning of surgery. Our surgical coordinator will review this with you prior to surgery.
Will I be admitted to the hospital?
No. Your procedure will be an outpatient procedure. You should be able to go home within approximately two hours following the completion of your surgery.
What should I bring to the hospital?
Bring photo ID (e.g. drivers license) and insurance card.
Will I be put to sleep?
Local anesthesia with intervenous sedation is Dr. Hall's preferred method of anesthesia. Occasionally, general anesthesia may be necessary.
Will my eye be patched?
Yes. DO NOT remove your patch unless instructed otherwise by Dr. Hall. On your first postop visit, your patch will be removed and further instructions given.
Will I see Dr. Hall on the day after surgery?
Yes. Prior to surgery, the surgical coordinator will contact you with the time and location for your first postop visit.
Will I be using eyedrops after surgery?
Yes but as your eye will be patched, you will not use drops in your surgery eye until the doctor sees you the day after surgery.
What eyedrops will I use after surgery?
On the day of surgery, you will receive a postop kit that will include other eyedrops and items for the care of your surgical eye. Please bring this to your first postop visit for further instructions.
Will my insurance cover this procedure?
Our office will contact your insurance plan to verify coverage. You may be required to obtain a referral from your primary care physician for your specific procedure.
When can I return to work?
Depending upon the procedure performed and the type of work you do, the doctor will evaluate you and make this determination most likely after one to two follow-up visits. Most patients can return to work within one week.
What should I do when I return home after surgery?
After you go home, make sure your recovery gets off to a good start. Rest and follow instructions. Take good care of yourself, especially in the days immediately following your procedure.
We hope this information has been helpful. Our surgical coordinator will contact you a few days before surgery to see if you have any additional questions or concerns and to confirm your surgery time. Please do not hesitate to call our office in the meantime for further assistance.