Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be dilated on every visit?
Yes. In order to best evaluate your eyes, your pupils must dilate so the doctor can see the retina.
How long will my eyes stay dilated?
Approximately 2 hours, longer for some patients.
Can I drive after my exam?
You will be light sensitive but if you are legal to drive you may. However, if you think you will be more comfortable please bring a driver.
How long will my visit take?
Your visit will last approximately 45-minutes to 1 ½ hours depending on what diagnostic tests are needed.
Do you have to wait in between each drop?
You should wait 1-minutes between each drop.
Can I wash my hair after my surgery?
After the second day post operative you may.
Can I have sex after surgery?
Depending on positioning requirements and the limitation of activity.
How much weight can I pick up?
No more that 10-pounds of lifting and no bending over.
What if I forget to take a drop?
Take the drop once you remember. If it is almost time to take the next dose, skip the one you missed and continue with the schedule.
What if I put my drops in the wrong eye?
Don’t do it again.
How many drops should I put in my eye?
This is dependent on the prescription needed.
Do I have to wake up during the night to take my drops?
No. Drops are to be instilled during waking hours only.
Do I have to stop my medications before surgery?
Medication should be discussed with your medical doctor and the surgical center.
What do I need to bring with me to my first visit?
You should bring your insurance cards, photo ID, and a driver if you prefer.
Can I bring someone with me?
We prefer if you have a family member present to help with forms and any questions.
Will I be taken at my appointment time?
All of our patients are here for different reasons and will be taken accordingly as close to their appointment time as possible. Your eyes must be completely dilated prior to seeing the doctor. We ask that you please be patient for unforeseen emergencies.
Do I need referral for my appointment?
It is a patient responsibility to get any referral that is required according to your medical insurance. Referrals are obtained from your primary care physician.
How do I request my records?
A written request signed by the patient is required to release any medical records. Records are then mailed accordingly. We do not fax record requests to patients. A record request can take up to one week to process.
Where do you perform your surgery?
We have privileges at the following institutions:
FASC: Fishkill Ambulatory Surgical Center
DASC: Dutchess Ambulatory Surgical Center
CNYEC: Central New York Eye Center
What is the difference between a retina surgeon and a general ophthalmologist?
A general ophthalmologist is a specialist who performs general eye care including refraction and minor surgery as well as cataract surgery. A retina specialist or surgeon is highly trained in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of retinal problems such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, macular holes, macular puckers and retinal detachments. A retina specialist trains for many years beyond medical school: not only for four more years to become a general ophthalmologist, but for two additional years in a “fellowship” program to learn the intricacies of retinal surgery.
Do I have to pay anything at the time of my visit?
Depending on your insurance you may or many not be responsible for a co-pay. That fee is expected at the time of service.
How long will I have to take drops after surgery?
A minimum of 6-weeks. You will be given instructions to follow and our ophthalmic technicians will review them with you.
How long will my eye be patched after surgery?
You will go home from surgery with a patch over your eye. Keep it on until your appointment the next morning. The patch will be removed during your exam and you will be given complete instructions on what to do next.