Patient User Guide

Patient Information Guide

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Your Patient Information Guide

Like many patients, you’re probably excited about the prospect of enjoying life without the nagging irritations of glasses or contact lenses.

But you’ll no doubt also have questions about what happens before, during and after your surgery. This pack aims to answer those questions. Because the better informed you are, the more confident and relaxed you’ll feel throughout your surgery.

If you’d like to discuss anything in more detail, or are uncertain about anything, please just ask. We’ll be happy to help.

London Vision Clinic | Welcome | Patient Information Guide

01 Welcome.indd 1 6/7/11 9:45 AM

Our processAs you read about each stage in the process, you’ll not only see how easy laser eye surgery can be, but you’ll also get an insight into the extraordinary level of care we take at each stage.


Before your surgery

During your surgery

After your surgery

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First, we need to make sure you’re suitable for eye surgery. Around 98% of people are, but some clinics turn away up to 20% of potential patients. This is often because those clinics don’t have the skills or equipment to handle more complex cases.

The major part of your suitability assessment at London Vision Clinic is complimentary. Even so, we’re confident it will be the most comprehensive eye exam you’ve ever had. Knowing your eyes in fine detail means less risk, and better results. So we never rush the screening process. You’ll need to set aside at least three hours for the appointment.

Before your surgery

Upon your arrival at the Clinic, you will be greeted by a Clinic Coordinator. Before we start, or just after we test your eyes, your Patient Care Coordinator (PCC) will explain the process, and what you can expect. He or she will help you with any concerns or questions you have, so you’re relaxed and reassured.

Next, one of our clinic staff will measure your eyes using several different technologies. None of these tests is painful, and the nurse or technician will explain every test in detail. Our first priority is that you feel informed and comfortable at every stage.

We measure the exact geometry of your cornea (the outer layer at the front of the eye), as well as its thickness in 3D. This is critical, as laser eye surgery works by minutely reshaping the cornea itself. So we need to make sure we can do that in complete confidence.

We also measure the tiny, and unique, imperfections in the way your eye focuses light. This helps us gauge any specific visual defects beyond the rough guide of your prescription. It also helps us assess your vision in low light, which increases the chance of achieving normal vision – or better.

We also test the size of your pupils. This helps us make sure the surgery won’t interfere with the

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way your pupils adapt in different lights, and is especially important for ensuring good night vision.

One of our expert optometrists will review the results of your initial tests, and then conduct an extensive eye exam. This tests everything from the film of tears on your eyes to your ability to see objects in low contrast conditions.

If your eyesight is deteriorating naturally due to age (presbyopia), we’ll test to see whether you’re suitable for Laser Blended Vision – our pioneering surgery for this condition.

We may also recommend an Artemis™ scan. This is an ultrasound scan, co-invented by Professor Reinstein, which provides the most accurate possible measurement of the cornea. It shows each individual layer of corneal tissue in three dimensions, revealing every tiny variation in thickness. Laser eye surgery shapes the cornea by removing some cells, so Artemis™ information can be vital, especially if you have astigmatism or thin corneas.

For some tests, we need to touch the surface of the eye itself. So for these, we give you anaesthetic eye drops. The numbness can feel a little strange, but wears off within 20 minutes.

Assuming you’re suitable for surgery, this is the point where you decide whether to go ahead. If you do, your optometrist will conduct a complete ophthalmic exam, gathering even more detailed

knowledge about your eyes. We’ll also need to artificially dilate your pupils, using some other eye drops. This may leave your eyes more sensitive to light, and your vision slightly blurry, for up to a few hours.

Consent

At least 1 day before your surgery, we’ll give you a consent form and Surgical Information Pack. You need to read and initial every page of both documents before your consent appointment.

At the consent appointment, your surgeon will conduct another, final examination, to double-check previous measurements and confirm the bespoke programming that will guide the individual surgery for each of your eyes. They will then take you through the final consent process. They will go through the consent form(s) and Surgical Information Pack with you, and answer any questions you have. Then you and your surgeon will both sign and date the forms before surgery.

Capacity to consent

It’s our policy not to proceed with surgery if your surgeon or optometrist has any doubt that you’ve fully understood all the information we provide – irrespective of your written consent.


During your surgery

You’re bound to feel a little anxious. Don’t worry: by this stage we know your eyes in incredible detail, which is the key to successful surgery.

Then we’ll accompany you to the preparation area before heading for theatre – and a changed life.

The surgery itself varies slightly, depending on what form of surgery you need. But over 99% of people have LASIK – the fastest healing form of eye surgery. Whatever surgery you have, all you need to do is lie flat on your back. We’ll do the rest.

Generally, we treat both eyes in just a few minutes. Your surgeon will talk you through every stage, so nothing comes as a surprise. There is no pain at all, although at times you may feel gentle pressure on your eye, which can be slightly uncomfortable for a few seconds. For the most part, all you do is look straight into a flashing light.

Don’t worry about blinking, sneezing, or any other accidental movements. The laser tracks your eye hundreds of times a second, following it and compensating for your eye movements. And in any case, it can’t hurt you. It’s so gentle, you could safely hold your hand under it. There’s virtually nothing you could do to compromise the surgery, or put yourself at risk.

After your surgery

You’ll probably notice a big change as soon as you sit up after the surgery. The swelling in your cornea means your vision will be foggy, as if you’re looking through a pale mist. But the world around you, which was its usual blur when you lay down, will already be in focus. For many patients, this moment can be quite overwhelming. Within 24 hours the swelling (which is invisible to others) will have reduced dramatically. You can expect to see ‘starbursts’ or haloes around lights for a while, but these gradually disappear.

Most people can drive and return to work within 24 hours of laser eye surgery. We’ll help make sure you recover safely and successfully, through our comprehensive, detailed aftercare. You’ll have medicated eye drops to protect against infection, and night-time eye shields to wear for the first seven nights, so you can’t rub your eyes in your sleep.

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For further information visit www.londonvisionclinic.com


Key datesYour appointments

Your suitability assessment

Consultation with optometrist

Consent appointment with surgeon

Your surgery date is

Aftercare appointment at 1 day

Aftercare appointment at 3-4 weeks

Aftercare appointment at 3 Months

Aftercare appointment at 12 Months

London Vision CLiniC 138 Harley street London W1G 7LA

Freephone 0800 587 4705 T +44 (0)20 7224 1005 E [email protected]

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Key peopleYour team of experts

Your Patient Care Coordinator is

Your optometrist is

Your surgeon is

London Vision CLiniC 138 Harley street London W1G 7LA

Freephone 0800 587 4705 T +44 (0)20 7224 1005 E [email protected]



Before


Before your surgeryDetermining your suitability is a process of many steps, and involves you, your surgeon and the Clinic staff. Please ask anyone at the Clinic any questions you may have at any time. You have the right to consent to, or to refuse, any surgery or procedure at any time.

London Vision Clinic | Before your surgery | Patient Information Guide


Before your initial assessment

You’ll need to be prepared for an extensive (but pain free) examination of your eyes in your pre-operative consultations. This will include using drops to anaesthetise or dilate your eyes for a short time.

Pupil dilation leaves your vision blurry for a few hours. Reading is difficult, and you shouldn’t drive, so please arrange alternative transport. Please also bring a pair of sunglasses, as your eyes may be over-sensitive to light.

You’ll need to allow around three hours for this appointment.

Patient consent form

If, after reading this material and speaking with your Patient Care Coordinator, Optometrist and Surgeon, you decide to go ahead with surgery, you’ll need to sign the Patient Consent Form(s). These show that you’ve been advised of the nature of the surgery. We’ve included a copy or copies of your Consent Form(s) in this Guide.

Things to consider


Clinic CoordinatorsOur Clinic Coordinators and other staff keep everything running smoothly, and help make sure you always receive the highest possible standards of service.

Lead Coordinator Mary Erekpaine

Our Clinic Coordinators Elle McPhun Thilini De Silva Kate Berry Terysa Vanderloo


Head PCC Manmeet Chowdhry

Our PCCsAntonia Bellwood Katy Baker Tuuli Sauemagi Dana Smith

Your PCC is your first point of contact with the Clinic, and remains a consistent supporting presence throughout your time with the clinic – from initial enquiry through to your surgery and aftercare. They can answer most questions and concerns, or make sure you get an answer from the relevant professional.

Patient Care Coordinators (PCC)Before your surgery, your PCC will make sure you have a copy of this Guide and your Consent Form(s).


Lead Optometrist Alexandra Lyons

Our Optometrists Brendan Duane Connie McEvoy Desiree Todd Emma Brandon Sharon Ritchie Vimal Piparia

OptometristsBefore your surgery, one of our Optometrists will examine your eyes to assess your suitability for surgery, according to criteria set by the Surgeon. He or she will also explain the procedure, its benefits, alternatives, risks and complications, and any other information specific to you. He or she will provide you with the Surgical Information Pack and Consent forms, and answer any questions. The Optometrist will also see you for your aftercare appointments.



Senior Nurse Zuzana Vojencakova

Lead Nurse Maria Persdotter

Our Nurses Alison Espino Anarita Pereira Almudena Sanchez Calvo Alena Sramova Emily Prain

Clinic Technicians Eleanor Cairns

Clinical TeamOur dedicated team is essential to the Clinic’s exceptional standards of care and service. Our clinical team devote themselves to your clinical and emotional welfare. Calm, expert and reassuring, your Nurse or Technician will be on hand to help prepare you for surgery, to answer any questions, and to keep a watchful eye on your wellbeing at every stage of your time with us.


Surgeons Mr Glenn Carp, MBBCh, FC Ophth (SA)

Medical Director / Surgeon Professor Dan Z. Reinstein, MD MA (Cantab) DABO FRCSC

Surgeons To help you make an informed decision, your Surgeon will describe the surgery you’re going to have, and explain the risks, complications, expected benefits, and alternatives. Please don’t hesitate to ask if anything is unclear, or if you still have any questions. Your surgeon will also explain your individual post-operative plan, which also requires your consent.



Frequently asked questionsWe’ve collected the most common questions our patients ask, as a good introduction to laser eye surgery. You can see more of these at www.londonvisionclinic.com

If you can’t find the answer to any of your questions, just call us on 0800 587 4705. We’d be delighted to help.

London Vision Clinic | Frequently asked questions | Patient Information Guide

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Before the surgery

Q. Can I bring anyone with me when I have the surgery?A. Please feel free to bring someone with you to the Clinic on the day of your surgery. But we can only allow clinical staff in the theatre itself.

Q. What should I do to prepare for surgery?A. Please see the ‘Things to remember’ checklist shown further in this guide.

Q. What if I currently wear contact lenses?A. Please see the ‘Important notes for contact lens wearers’ page shown further in this guide.

During the surgery

Q. What will I feel during the surgery?A. We give you anaesthetic eye-drops to numb the eye, which means the surgery is painless. There’s a slight pressure on your eye as we make the flap in the cornea, which some people find uncomfortable.

Q. How long does the surgery take?A. The operation takes a matter of minutes, and the laser is only active for seconds. Preparing for surgery on the day takes between 30 minutes to an hour.

Q. What happens if I look away, blink, cough or sneeze during surgery?A. Nothing! Your eye will move naturally during surgery. But the laser’s eye-tracking technology follows these movements precisely, ensuring the laser goes exactly where it’s supposed to.

There’s a tiny pause between the laser registering, and then compensating for, a movement of the eye. In all the existing trackers, this pauseis less than ten milliseconds (or one hundredth of a second).


Q. What is the risk of a complication during laser eye surgery?A. Laser eye surgery is extremely safe. But of course no surgery is entirely without some level of risk, however small. But our expert surgeons, have the knowledge to manage and correct most complications as they occur.

For such surgeons, the chance of something going noticeably wrong is around 1 in 1,000 surgical procedures. The chances of it being something he or she cannot improve, or correct satisfactorily, is about 1 in 30,000.

Q. Can I take a tranquiliser or sedative (such as Valium) before my surgery?A. We advise against taking tranquilisers or sedatives before surgery, as you will need to be examined by your surgeon, and you need to be alert to go through the informed consent process.

It’s extremely rare for a patient to be so nervous that they need a tranquiliser or sedative during the surgery. But if you have any question or concerns about this, please feel free to talk about it with your surgeon.

Q: Will my eyes hurt while I’m recovering?A. There may be some minor discomfort or irritation for up to 24 hours after surgery.


After the surgery

Q. What will my vision be like immediately after the surgery?A. The improvement is virtually instantaneous – we call it ‘the wow effect.’ However, because the cornea swells slightly after surgery, there is a pale mist across your vision – some patients say it’s like looking through a clear shower curtain. This clears as the swelling subsides over the following couple of days.

Q. Can I drive immediately after surgery?A. No. We advise you not to drive until after your next-day aftercare appointment. You can drive short distances after this appointment, as long as we’ve confirmed that your vision is good enough.

Q. How should I get home?A. Our advice is to be driven home, or take an overground train. Because of the dust in the air, we recommend avoiding the London Underground for the first two days after your surgery.

Q. Why would I need ‘24/7’ access to my surgeon’s mobile phone?A. We want you to feel completely reassured and supported, so we give you your surgeon’s mobile number in case you feel your eyes need urgent medical attention. However, such emergency calls are extremely rare.

Q. What if my vision is blurry after surgery?A. We expect a certain amount of blurry vision initially. And don’t be surprised if this seems to come and go in the days after surgery, as your eyes settle down. As long as you follow the post-operative instructions in your aftercare package, the blurriness should pass in time.

Q. What if I feel pain or soreness after the surgery?A. As long as you follow all the post-operative instructions this shouldn’t be a problem. But please feel free to call the Clinic free on 0800 587 4705 if you have any worries.


Q. How will I know if I need an enhancement?A. We’ll examine you 1 day, 1 month, 3 months and 12 months after surgery. If necessary, we may ask you to come back for another examination at or near 6 and/or 9 months after surgery. So we’ll have plenty of opportunities to assess your progress, check your own satisfaction, and discuss any options for improving your results even further.

Q. Can I go blind after laser eye surgery?A. No.

Please visit: www.londonvisionclinic.com/what-makes-us-different/results-stats

Q. What are the long-term results of laser eye surgery? A. Professor Reinstein was one of the key contributors to the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) Guidance Document on laser eye surgery. This found that the surgery was safe and effective, and that there were no serious concerns about its long-term safety, if performed with the latest technology and techniques.

There have been around 17 million laser eye surgery procedures to date worldwide.

Q. What are the clinic’s results?A. Please see the Appendix for our most up-to-date results for your condition.


Contact lenses can ‘mould’ the corneal surface, changing its curvature, which may change your refraction (glasses prescription). This means you’ll need to stop wearing contact lenses a certain time before your surgery appointment, so your cornea can return to its natural shape and size. Medical evidence suggests that the longer you have had your contact lenses out, the less likely you are to need an enhancement.

For most patients, the recommended minimum time (below) should be fine. But corneas can adjust at varying speeds. If your cornea is still adjusting at either your consent appointment, or on the day of surgery, we’ll need to reschedule the appointment.

When to stop wearing lenses before your consent appointment

Soft contact lenses At least 1 week before

Extended wear soft lenses At least 1 week before

Toric soft lenses At least 2 weeks before

Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses worn for 0–10 years

At least 4 weeks before





True hard lenses (Polymethyl mehtacrylate)


Important notes for contact lens wearersWe want to make sure you get the most accurate surgery possible. We can only achieve that if the surface of your cornea is stable and in its natural shape when we operate.

For further information visit www.londonvisionclinic.com/what-makes-us-different/results-stats


A word from the wiseThe best reassurance often comes from those who’ve already experienced surgery. So here we share some of the feedback we’ve had from our patients. We think you’ll find it encouraging.

London Vision Clinic | A word from the wise | Patient Information Guide

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It’s a life changing experience. No pain at all. It is fantastic to wake up in the morning and to be able to see everything without the need of glasses. I am recommending it to many friends and already convinced many of them. London Vision Clinic is the right place to come. Extremely professional.

Roberta M Housewife Date of Surgery: 26/03/10

I was worried that it would be painful, it was not. I am really pleased I had it done and would recommend it to everyone who was considering it.

Irene B Director Date of Surgery: 26/02/10

I still cannot believe it. The surgery was pain less and 20 minutes after I could see the tiny hands on my watch. I am still amazed and I liken it to a Miracle.

Daniella D Stylist Date of Surgery: 26/02/10

Excellent customer care. Staff talk through all the options including the possible improvements as well as the risks so you get the feeling nothing is being hidden. Surgery was painless and over in around 15minutes, 3 hours later) could see better than I ever could with contacts. I am now not being held back from doing things I enjoy.

Sam P Trainee sales Date of Surgery: 03/12/09

This is only just my first day but I am looking forward to a glasses free life. I was very pleased with the professionalism and efficiency of the operation. I felt no pain during and just a little discomfort three hours afterwards.

Alison C Accountancy Date of Surgery: 09/09/09

The treatment was pain-free and fast. I feel much more confident now that my work and social life are without lenses or glasses

Emily R Nurse Date of Surgery: 28/08/09


Truly amazing result with no pain and absolutely minimal discomfort. Prior to surgery I could not see my own features in the bathroom mirror. Now I can see everything. Having been turned down for laser previously I was amazed at the care I received. Thoroughly recommended.

Jan S Lawyer Date of Surgery: 28/07/09

Don’t know why I worried so much! The most painful thing was keeping my eyes closed and not wearing make-up! Mr Carp was professionalism personified with a calming and very reassuring manner. Felt I’m truly in safe hands throughout and cried when I opened my eyes. Just fab!

Chris B Managing Director Date of Surgery: 03/06/09

Like most people I have spoke to I was very uncomfortable/ unaware of the process. It turned out my fears were unfounded. The staff and care given at the Clinic were of the highest quality. There was no pain and the results are dramatic (good). I can now play golf, drive and enjoy life properly.

David C Banker Date of Surgery: 05/03/09

It’s a doddle! No pain, just a bit of irritation and some sensible aftercare to do. The advantages are infinite. It’s a while before you stop reaching for your specs in the morning, but nice when you realise you don’t need them!

David O Designer Date of Surgery: 29/11/08



The treatment was painless although the waiting made me very nervous. I have not worn glasses since that day and it is wonderful to be able to read the small writing on cans and bottles etc

Allyson L Clerical Date of Surgery: 29/10/08

Having worn glasses for 30 years, nothing could prepare you for the delight at being able to read a menu without them that same day. The procedure was painless and the excellent staff guided you calmly through all the many tests. How I wish procedure had been available 20 years ago. Fantastic!

Tessa M Retired Date of Surgery: 15/10/08


During


During your surgeryYou’re bound to feel a little anxious. Don’t worry: by this stage we know your eyes in incredible detail, which is the key to successful surgery.

London Vision Clinic | During your surgery | Patient Information Guide

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Before your surgery, you’ll be given anaesthetic eye drops, which just numb the eyes themselves. These drops do not hurt.

Then, while you relax on the surgery bed, your eyelids are gently held open with an instrument called a speculum. The surgeon will ask you to focus on a special light in a microscope.

Using a femtosecond laser, the surgeon creates a flap of corneal tissue and folds it back to reveal the middle layer of the cornea. The surgeon then reshapes the cornea using a laser, before replacing the flap. There’s no need for sutures: natural forces hold the flap in place until surface healing is complete (usually within 12 to 24 hours).

Recovery is extremely fast. The flap usually seals into position within hours, and most patients can go back to normal everyday activity just 24 hours after surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe medicated eye drops for 1 week, and artificial tears for 1-3 months after surgery. During the first week, you also need to wear eye shields at night, so you can’t inadvertently rub your eyes during sleep.

If your cornea is too thin to create the flap required for LASIK, you’ll have PRK surgery.

In PRK, the surgeon gently removes a small area of the outer epithelium – the outermost tissue of the eye. This allows them to reshape the corneal surface in exactly the same way as in LASIK.

What happens during surgeryYou’ll normally be in the operating theatre for no more than 20 minutes, during which the laser is usually used for less than a minute on each eye. Naturally, the exact time may vary according to the type and amount of correction you need.


Because we actually remove some of the epithelium, recovery from PRK takes a little longer. After surgery, your surgeon will place a soft contact lens on the cornea to protect the eye and reduce discomfort during healing. We’ll also give you medication to minimise any discomfort.

Once the initial surface healing is complete (usually within five days), we’ll remove the contact lens. Your vision will gradually improve during the first week or two, and usually stabilises between four and eight weeks after surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe eye drops to take during this period.

You may experience some discomfort for the first few days after either LASIK or PRK. And during the first month, your vision may be blurred, or fluctuate between clear and blurred. In some cases, vision improves immediately after surgery, then becomes temporarily blurred later. Everyone is different, and these effects may vary. But the final outcomes of PRK and LASIK are generally identical; the only difference is in the healing time.


The day of surgery

Feeling nervous, anxious or excited before surgery is completely natural and normal. Just follow the checklist below, and try to relax as much as you can. If you have any questions, please just ask. No matter how trivial your question may seem, we know it’s important to you.

−The vast majority of people are able to return to work the next day. Your Surgeon can advise you on the best options for you.

−Do not wear perfume or cologne, hair spray or hair mousse, as these can contain alcohol.

−Remove all eye make-up at least 24 hours before surgery, and ensure your face and eyes are clear of any makeup on the day of surgery.

−Wear comfortable clothing, but please avoid anything that may generate lint, such as wool.

−You will not be able to drive yourself home, and you will probably find public transport tiring. You should certainly avoid the London Underground, because of the dust in the air. So please arrange for a taxi, or a friend or family member, to take you home.

− If you’re travelling far, you may find it more convenient to arrange local accommodation. Please just ask your PCC if you’d like some information on local accommodations.

−Avoid alcohol 24 hours before and 48 hours after your surgery, as this tends to dehydrate your eyes.

At your consent appointment, we’ll ask you to sign your informed consent form and to pay the balance of your surgery fee.

Please bring your diary if you would like to make your aftercare appointments while you’re at the Clinic. Or you can write your appointment dates in this Patient Guide.

Things to remember…



Your medicationThis section explains the various medications you may be given as part of your aftercare. Your Nurse or Technician will go through your medications with you before your surgery, and our clinical staff will be happy to answer any questions.

London Vision Clinic | Your medication | Patient Information Guide

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Drops

Antibiotic

Tobradex1 drop into the treated eye(s) 4 times a day for 7 days

Exocin1 drop into the treated eye(s) 4 times a day for 7 days

Topical Pain Relief

Voltarol (single drops)1 drop into the treated eye(s) as required (can be used every 30 minutes) on the day of surgery for the first 4 hours after surgery, then every hour.

Artificial Tears

Blink IntensiveAt least 1 drop every 15 minutes on the day of surgery and then as required.Lubricate, lubricate – the more the better!

PLEASE NOTE

Leave 3 minutes between applying each drop, to make sure one medication doesn’t wash out another. You don’t need to use drops during the night, unless you’re told otherwise.


Tablets

Pain Relief

These tablets should not be used with other medications unless otherwise instructed. Please avoid alcohol.

Dicloflex (Diclofenac Sodium 50mg)This is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Do not take with any other medication such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen or Warfarin.

Dosage: 1 tablet with food and a full glass of water if needed on the day of surgery.

Sleeping tablets (If required)

Lorazepam 1mgTake 1 tablet on the first night after surgery if you need help to sleep. Do not drive or operate machinery after taking this medication.


When to take medication

Day of surgery

Breakfast Mid-morning Lunch Mid-afternoon Dinner Evening Bedtime

Surgerytime >

TobradexExocinVoltarol*

>TobradexExocinVoltarol*


Surgerytime




Surgerytime >



Surgerytime



Surgerytime >


Surgerytime


IMPORTANT – Blink Intensive: Take a minimum of every 15 minutes after your surgery

*as required



Days 1 to 7 after your surgery

Breakfast Mid-morning Lunch Mid-afternoon Dinner Evening Bedtime

Tobradex Tobradex Tobradex Tobradex

Exocin Exocin Exocin Exocin

IMPORTANT – Blink Intensive: Take at least every hour

From Day 8 until your next visit to the Clinic

IMPORTANT – Blink Intensive: Take at least every 4 hours

Additional instructions

We cannot stress too strongly that you must continue to take your medication as prescribed, no matter how good your eyes feel.

You need post-operative appointments at: 1 day, 3–4 weeks, 3 months and 12 months.These post-operative appointments are very important to ensure the best possible results. Please make sure you attend each appointment.



After


After your surgeryRemember: your follow-up care is as important as the surgery itself. We’ll help make sure your recovery is safe and successful, through comprehensive, detailed aftercare.

London Vision Clinic | After your surgery | Patient Information Guide

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Your eyes may be irritated and extra-sensitive to light, although this usually settles down within 24 hours of surgery. So please bring sunglasses, and follow the eye drop regime prescribed. Your first essential post-operative appointment will be within 24 hours of your surgery, at the Clinic.

After surgery


After your first post-operative visit, you’ll need examinations at 3–4 weeks, and 3 and 12 months after surgery.

Most of these appointments take around 30 minutes. The 3-month appointment takes about 45 minutes, and the 12-month appointment about 60 minutes.

At your one-year appointment, we’ll do a full eye examination. After that, we recommend routine examinations – every 2 years if you are 59 or younger; annually if you are 60 or over.

Aftercare appointments


Day of surgery

−This should be a day of rest. You’ll be asked to rest with your eyes closed for a few hours after the surgery.

−After this period, it’s okay to watch TV, read or use a computer screen, as long as you use plenty of lubricating eye-drops. But be aware, your vision may still be quite blurry at this point.

−Be very careful about doing anything where the eye may be poked, rubbed or touched. Please try not to rub your eyes at all. Instead, use your lubricant drops to reduce any irritation.

Day after surgery

−Take a bath instead of a shower, and avoid soap or water in the eyes.

−Stick to gentle activities, and don’t start driving again until we have confirmed that your vision is good enough during your 24-hour post-operative assessment.

−You can read or watch TV, as long as you keep your eyes well lubricated with the drops.

−You can also fly if you need to, but remember that aeroplanes have very dry air. You’ll need to lubricate your eyes every 15 minutes.

48 hours after surgery

−Your surgeon will advise you if you’re okay to shower (instead of having a bath). But you should continue to keep soap and water away from your eyes.

−You can apply face make-up, but not eye make-up.

−You can do office work, including using computers, but do remember to keep your eyes well-lubricated.

Getting back to normal life


From Day 3

−You can do exercise that doesn’t involve any risk to the eyes, such as treadmill, Stairmaster, stationary bike, running or weight lifting.

−Take care when playing with children!

From Day 7

−You can use eye make-up, but take care not to rub your eyes when taking it off.

−You can do rollerblading or relaxed cycling, but not mountain biking.

−You can also play golf and racquet sports like tennis, squash, racquetball, badminton – but do wear eye protection. Skiing and snowboarding are also okay, if you wear ski goggles.

From 1 month

−Swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving are normally safe at this point, although your surgeon may well give you the ‘go ahead’ for these activities within a few days of surgery.

−Motorcycling, motor-cross and mountain biking are also okay from this point, as are baseball, basketball, soccer/football and American football.

From 3 months

−You can get back to water-skiing, surfing, wind-surfing and kayaking. But please take care, as they all risk forcing water into the eyes. Rugby is also okay from this point.


The Top 10

1. Do not rub your eyes.

2. You will feel best if you go directly home and rest.

3. Avoid sleeping for the first two hours as this may give you dry eyes.

4. Avoid watching television or reading for the first few hours after your surgery.

5. Wear your plastic eye shields (we’ll give you some) every night for the first seven nights after surgery.

6. If you experience any increasing pain or worsening of vision, call the Clinic immediately.

7. Bring sunglasses with you on the day of surgery, to protect your eyes from dust and sunlight afterwards.

8. Bathe, rather than having a shower, avoid getting any soap or water in your eyes. It’s best to gently wash your face with a clean towel, and pat dry without rubbing.

9. Avoid eye make-up for 7 days.

10. In the first week, avoid atmospheres that may irritate your eyes, such as smoke, dust and other potential irritants.



Staying in touchIf you ever have any worries about your vision, we want you to get in touch – whether it’s a month after your surgery, a year, or 5 years. And you can call us anytime, no matter how long ago you had your surgery.

London Vision Clinic | Staying in touch | Patient Information Guide

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Mr Glenn CarpSurgeon Telephone: 020 7224 1005 Mobile: 07879 291 869 Email: [email protected]

Professor Dan ReinsteinMedical Director/Surgeon Telephone: 020 7224 1005 Mobile: 07813 967 217 Email: [email protected]

London Vision Clinic138 Harley StreetLondon W1G 7LA


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Further details


London Vision Clinic | Payment options | Patient Information Guide

Payment optionsWe charge a straightforward one-off fee for the whole surgery. You need to pay for your surgery on the day you sign your consent forms. However, as well as accepting various forms of single payment, we also offer interest-free finance, to help spread the cost of your surgery.

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Payment options

Laser eye surgery at the London Vision Clinic costs £4,600 to £6,300. You can spread this cost using our interest-free financing programme. Please ask a patient care coordinator for more details about financing your laser eye surgery.

Interest-free finance

Amount 12 months 24 months 36 months

Including deposit: £4,600 £383.33 £191.67 £127.78

Excluding deposit: £4,100

£341.67 £170.83 £113.89

Please ask a Patient Care Coordinator for more details about financing your surgery. Should you wish to have more information regarding our third-party credit facility, please contact Clode Retail Finance, 20 Neptune Court, Vanguard Way, Cardiff, CF24 5PJ, Telephone 02920 468 900 or visit www.v12finance.com.

Our fees are payable in advance with cash, VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Switch, Debit Card or, cheque.

With enough notice, you can also execute a bank transfer. Please discuss this option with your Patient Care Coordinator, who will need to get approval for this in advance.

No hidden costs

About a third of patients have very high prescriptions, which cannot be corrected with standard surgery. If you have such a prescription, we will offer you our High Profile surgery, to ensure maximum accuracy and safety. These are especially complex surgeries, and cost £6,300. Please get in touch if you’d like to talk about this before your initial screening/assessment.


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Protecting your privacy and dignity

All our consultations take place in private consulting rooms, and we provide private toilet facilities.

All the information we hold about you is treated as confidential, and will only be used for the purposes for which it is given, according to the Data Protection Act (1998). We will not share information with your family or anyone else without your written approval

Speech and hearing difficulties

If you have impaired speech or hearing, we’ll assess your case on an individual basis. If communication issues are likely to put you at any increased risk during the surgery, then we may not be able to treat you.

If there is a language barrier between us, you will need to provide a translator to attend your appointments with you as we do not provide this service.

Your optometrist will assess your suitability during your ophthalmic examination, in discussion with the surgeon where necessary.

Physical disability

Unfortunately, we have limited disabled access at the Clinic. We have a wheelchair ramp that provides access to the ground floor, and a disabled toilet on the ground floor. We also have a lift to the basement, where our laser surgery room is located.

However, the Clinic has a ‘No Manual Handling of Patients’ policy. This dictates that we do not have the facilities or equipment for handling disabled patients. So if you have a physically disability, you’ll need either to be independent or to provide your own assistance for transferring onto and off the laser surgery bed, and using the Clinic’s other facilities.

If your disability means you cannot use our facilities.


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However, if you prefer, you can write to:

Emma Pinker Clinic Manager London Vision Clinic 138 Harley Street London W1G 7LA

You can also telephone Emma on 020 7224 1005. Or email [email protected]

We will provide a written acknowledgment within two working days, and a formal response within 10 working days.

You may wish to also contact the Care Quality Commission, which registers the London Vision Clinic:

Care Quality Commission National Correspondence Citygate Gallowgate Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4PA Telephone: 03000 616161 Email: [email protected]

Suggestions or complaintsWe believe in listening to our patients, and are keen to hear your feedback. Positive or negative, it all helps us continuously improve our care and service. Please feel free to speak to any member of staff. Our Clinic Manager, Emma Pinker will always be happy to discuss any issue with you.


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