Oculoplastics and Aesthetics

An oculoplastic surgeon is an ophthalmologist who has trained in reconstructive surgery. Pediatric ophthalmologists perform eye surgeries on children.

In most cases, your ophthalmologist can perform the surgery at their office. You will receive local anesthesia. You should be able to go home shortly after the surgery. In some cases, your doctor will perform the surgery at a hospital or surgical center.

The staff at Kovach Eye Institute will find out if your insurance covers the procedure. They’ll also find out how much of the cost you will have to pay if it is covered. Some of these procedures are elective, meaning they are not covered by insurance. Be sure that you understand the benefits you will receive from the surgery. You must decide if the benefits are worth the costs to you if insurance won’t pay for the surgery.

After your eye surgery is scheduled, you may have to see your regular health care provider. You might need to have some routine tests to show it’s OK for you to undergo surgery. If you take certain medications to thin your blood, you may have to stop taking them before the procedure. If you see a cardiologist, you will have to visit them as well as your regular doctor.

Your surgeon may give you a list of other medications that you should avoid before surgery. These could include prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Once you’re cleared for surgery, you’ll have a pre-operative meeting with your surgeon. You should arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and to stay with you for several hours after.

Your specific after-care routine will depend on what kind of surgery you had. Your surgeon will give you instructions to follow. The instructions will likely include:

• Take it easy. For the first day or two, your surgeon might suggest staying in bed.
• Apply cool compresses around your eyes for a few days. This helps to reduce swelling and bruising.
• Avoid strenuous activity. Don’t lift anything heavy or do any exercising until your doctor says it’s OK to resume normal activities. This could be a week to three weeks after surgery.
• Avoid certain medications if your doctor tells you to. You should also avoid alcohol for at least a week.
• Follow instructions for bathing around the surgery area.
  Watch for signs of infection, such as redness or swelling. Call your eye doctor if your incision isn’t healing or your vision gets worse.