Eye Surgery (Ophthalmology) patient journey

The aim of the pre-assessment Eye Clinic is to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for Cataract surgery.

You will see Nurses and Optometrists and may see the Consultant Ophthalmologist. 

You may be in the department for up to four hours, so please be prepared to wait. If you are suitable to have surgery the same day, you may be offered a theatre slot if one becomes available at the last minute.

• We will take a note of your personal details.
• Your observations (such as blood pressure) will be taken, as will a blood glucose test (if diabetic).
• We will also need to take a note of your medical history and any medications.
• Our Eye Nurses will carry out a variety of tests and assess your eye(s) and distance vision for surgery.
• The nurse will explain to you what happens before, during and after your eye surgery. 
• You will then be seen by an Optometrist, who will personally examine your eyes and explain the risks and benefits of surgery should you wish to go ahead.
• You may see the Consultant Ophthalmologist.

To ensure your Eye Clinic appointment goes smoothly, please:

• bring along your completed registration form;
• bring any glasses you use for watching television, reading or driving;
• bring any medication you are currently taking (either boxes or a list);
• do not wear contact lenses for seven days before your appointment as this may affect the result of the tests that are carried out.

You should arrive at the hospital at the time and date given on your letter.

• Bring all your medications with you in their original container.
• Take all your usual medications at the prescribed time with a sip of water if required.
• Remove all make-up and nail polish before you arrive.
• Wear loose clean clothes (preferably something with front fastening).
• If hospital transport has not been arranged for you, please arrange for a responsible adult to escort you home.

Please notify us if you have any of the following symptoms before your procedure:

• fever
• rash
• breathing difficulties
• chest pain
• cough
• cold
• eye infection.

Eye surgery is generally performed as a day case, so you will go home the same day as your operation. 

• You must not drive yourself home from hospital.
• Rest the same evening and avoid demanding activities.
• Keep the shield on overnight for one week. Remove it during the day
• Start using your drops as instructed.
• Take your usual medications and any that you may have been given by the nurse.
• Take a simple painkiller if your eye is uncomfortable.
• It is normal for your eye to be watery and irritable.
• Take care with bending and bend from the knees.
• Sit to put on your socks and shoes.
• Avoid strenuous activity like gardening, heavy lifting, or heavy housework.
• No sport or swimming for four weeks. If your eye is okay after this time you can restart.
• Check with your optician before driving.
   

• Note how your drops should be stored. For example, Chloramphenicol needs to be stored in a fridge.
• Always wash your hands before and after putting in eye drops.
• Take off the shield.
• If lids are sticky, wash with cooled boiled water and cotton wool.
• Do not rub your eye.
• Follow instructions for 'administration of eye drops' – watch our short video.