Surgery Day Procedures

Your doctor’s office will schedule surgery for you or your family member. If you are allergic to latex, please notify your doctor at this time.

Unless you are having a Yag laser procedure, do NOT eat, drink or chew anything after midnight the night before your surgery. This includes gum, mints, candy, and chewing tobacco.If you develop a fever, rash, cough, or cold the day before surgery, contact your doctor at once, as your surgery may need to be rescheduled.

Once your surgery is scheduled, a registered nurse from our Center will call you with instructions to prepare for your surgery. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the Center and your upcoming surgery.

The Morning of Surgery

• You may brush your teeth and rinse your mouth with water but do not drink any of the water.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing (a short-sleeved, button-front shirt is best, no undershirts).
• Leave your valuables and jewelry at home.
• If you wear glasses or contacts, bring a case to store them in.
• Please do not wear makeup.
• Do not eat or drink anything the morning of the surgery, unless your doctor has given you other instructions.
• Take your blood pressure, heart and/or thyroid medication with only a very small sip of water (do not take any vitamins and minerals).
• Diabetics will be instructed as to whether or not to take medications or insulin the morning of surgery.

When You Arrive

Once you arrive at the Center, you will first meet with our receptionist (you must have a responsible driver with you for the post-surgery ride home as you will not be allowed to drive yourself. Your driver should remain in the facility while you are in surgery. Also, if you do not speak English, have someone with you to translate).

During the registration process, you will be asked to verify your personal and insurance information and to sign surgery consent forms. Please bring your Driver’s License or photo ID, your insurance card and a list of your medications. If you have a co-pay, co-insurance, have ordered a special lens, or are scheduled for the FEMTO laser, you will be asked to pay at this time. We accept all major credit cards or a cashier's check for payment. We do not accept CareCredit. If you have any questions regarding billing please call (703) 289-1290 ext. 3101 prior to your surgery day. Next, you will be taken to the pre-operative area where your nurse will verify your medical information, allergies and medications. The nurse will prepare you for your surgery, and an anesthesia provider will meet with you to discuss your medical history and the type of anesthesia you will be given during your surgery.

After Surgery

You will spend approximately 15 minutes in the post-anesthesia care unit after your surgery. The nurses will give you instructions for your home care. The nurses will also give instructions to your responsible driver if you would like them to do so. Should problems or questions arise when you are recovering at home, please contact your doctor. Additionally, we are available until 3:30 p.m. on weekdays.

In Case of Emergency

If an emergency arises after normal business hours, please call your doctor or go directly to your local emergency room. Ask emergency room personnel to contact your doctor.