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What to Expect

Before Surgery

Once you and your Ophthalmologist decide that surgery is the next step, your doctor’s Administrative Team will reach out to walk you through each step of the process.

You may be prescribed eye drops to begin before surgery and possibly continue after. 

For convenience, you can download and print our Patient Checklist under the “Resources” tab. This tool makes it easier to keep track of these important steps to ensure the best surgical outcome:

  • Medical clearance from your PCP or Cardiologist
  • Scheduled surgical date
  • Surgical arrival time
  • Transportation arrangements
  • Eating & drinking restrictions
  • Medication instructions
  • Eye drops
  • What to bring on the day of surgery
  • Health changes to notify us about before surgery
  • Your Ophthalmologist’s Administrative Team extension

A week before your procedure, Plymouth Laser and Surgical Center will call you to confirm your arrival time and review pre-operative instructions.

The Day of Surgery

  • Upon entering the building, you will find the Surgery Center check-in desk to your right.
  • A receptionist will check you in and provide an identity bracelet (and allergy bracelet if necessary).
  • After checking in, the front desk will have you take a seat in the waiting room until your nurse calls your name.
  • In the preoperative area, your nurse will confirm your name, date of birth, medications, allergies, and procedure. If needed, dilating drops will be given. You’ll receive a gown, cap, booties, nasal cannula, and EKG leads, and your vital signs will be monitored.
  • The Anesthesia Team will then assess your health, review your “Pre-Anesthesia Evaluation Form”, medical clearance, and start an IV to provide relaxing medication in the operating room.
  • While you are monitored, your nurse will review post-operative instructions with you and answer any questions. You’ll also receive a copy of these instructions to take home.
  • When it is time, a nurse will assist you into the operating room. You may walk or be transported by wheelchair. You’ll be positioned on the operating chair, connected to monitors, and provided with a warm blanket for comfort. You must be able to lay flat during the procedure. 
  • The operating room staff will introduce themselves and confirm your information (name, date of birth, procedure, allergies). They will then prepare your surgical site and establish a sterile field. Your eye will be numbed with eye drops, and anesthetizing agents will be administered to help you feel relaxed and pain free.

During Surgery

  • You will remain awake. Many patients are surprised when told the surgery is complete, as they often do not realize it has begun.
  • Due to the amnesia effect of anesthesia, experiences can feel different if you return for a second surgery. Think of it like driving to a new destination or re-watching a movie—you notice new details the second time around.
  • The surgeon will use a microscope with a bright light. You may notice colors, shapes, or shifting lights, but you will not see what is being done to your eye.

After Surgery

  • Once surgery is complete, more eye drops will be instilled. Not all surgeries require an eye patch. The surgeon will communicate with the OR Team if an eye patch is needed. How to put eyedrops in your own eyes.
  • Our Nursing Team will escort you to a recovery chair, monitor your vital signs, and review discharge instructions with you.
  • A family member or friend will be asked to bring their vehicle to the front entrance, and a staff member will assist you to your ride.
  • Please follow your surgeon’s 24-hour restrictions carefully. (Refer to your discharge instructions)
  • Shortly after discharge, our nurse team will call to check on you, answer questions, and gather feedback. If you miss the call (often due to a well-deserved nap), you can return the call at your convenience or discuss at your postoperative appointment with your doctor.

Recovery of Surgery

Every patient’s recovery is unique. 

Your surgeon will review what you can expect regarding healing time and results. 

Please keep in mind:

  • Everyone’s eye health is different.
  • Every eye responds differently to surgery.
  • Some procedures are more invasive than others.
  • Be patient with your recovery. Healing takes time, and no two patients recover in exactly the same way. 

Never hesitate to ask your care team questions—we are here to support you.

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