PATIENTS
Patient informationBefore, on the day, and after.
Practical, plain-terms guidance for coming to a consultation or having a procedure — how to prepare, what happens on the day, and what recovery looks like. Your own instructions always take precedence over anything here.
Three simple stages.
Before your visit
Bring your current glasses, a list of your medicines, and any letters, prescriptions or scans from previous eye care. If you take blood-thinning medicines, mention them when you book — you will be told whether anything needs adjusting. Eat and take your usual medicines as normal unless you are told otherwise.
At the clinic or theatre
Your eyes are often dilated with drops, which blur your vision for several hours — so please do not plan to drive yourself home, and bring sunglasses. Most eye surgery is done awake under local anaesthetic: the eye is fully numbed and you feel no pain, though you may sense light and movement. Allow plenty of time, and bring someone with you where you can.
Afterwards & aftercare
Recovery depends on the procedure — from same-day for an injection or laser, to several weeks for retinal surgery. You will be given drops and clear written instructions, including any head-posturing and, if a gas bubble is used, a firm rule not to fly until it has absorbed. You will always be told the specific warning signs to watch for and who to contact.
Questions patients ask.
Do I need a referral to be seen?
You can refer yourself for a private consultation — a GP or optometrist referral is welcome but not essential. If you have one, bring the letter and any imaging, as it helps focus the consultation.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Your current glasses, a list of your medicines (with doses), and any previous prescriptions, clinic letters or scans. If your eyes may be dilated, bring sunglasses and arrange not to drive afterwards.
Will my eyes be dilated, and can I drive?
Dilating drops are often needed to examine the retina, and they blur vision and increase glare for a few hours. Please do not drive yourself to or from an appointment where dilation is likely — arrange a lift or public transport.
Is eye surgery painful?
Most eye surgery is carried out under local anaesthetic, which numbs the eye completely; you do not feel pain, though you may be aware of lights and gentle movement. A general anaesthetic is available where appropriate. Any discomfort afterwards is usually mild and settles with the drops provided.
How long will recovery take?
It depends entirely on the procedure — an injection or laser is often same-day, cataract surgery a few days, and retinal surgery several weeks. Your specific timeline, and any restrictions, are explained before you go ahead.
Can I fly after surgery?
If a gas bubble has been placed in your eye, you must not fly until it has fully absorbed, as altitude can dangerously raise the eye pressure. You will be told exactly when it is safe. Without a gas bubble, flying advice depends on the procedure.
Optometrists & GPs
Referrals are welcome directly. Please include the reason for referral, relevant findings and any imaging (OCT, photographs), and mark anything time-critical — a suspected retinal detachment, tear or sudden loss — clearly so it can be triaged first.
- Referrals
- [Referral email — to confirm]
- Secretary
- [Phone — to confirm]
Still have a question?
Anything specific to your eyes is best answered at a consultation, where advice is tailored to you.
This page provides general information only and is not a substitute for an individual consultation. If you are worried about your vision, seek medical advice.