Post-operative check-ups
These appointments take place in Dr. Vryghem’s clinic or in St. Jans’ clinic, in the Ophthalmology department (2nd floor), depending on the consultation schedule. In some cases the check-ups are performed by the ophthalmologist who referred you to Dr. Vryghem.
CHECK-UP 1st DAY
CHECK-UP 3rd DAY
CHECK-UP 10th DAY
CHECK-UP 3rd WEEK
CHECK-UP 2nd MONTH
CHECK-UP 6th MONTH
Procedure
At least 1 week before the pre-operative examination:
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The patient’s GP must confirm that there are no contraindications for performing the procedure under local anaesthetic. An ECG must be taken as well as a blood test, unless these investigations have already been conducted during the previous six months.
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Bring along the prescribed medication: Tobrex eye drops (see below), Tobradex eye drops (against infection), Isoptocarpine eye drops (for to constrict the pupil ) and cyclogyl 1%
3 days before the procedure:
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3x/day 1 drop Tobrex in the eye to be treated.
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Stop taking or replace blood thinners (to be agreed with GP)
The weekday before the operation:
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Call 02/471.69.99 to find out out the exact time of your operation
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Make arrangements with a driver to bring you and take you back home.
The day of the operation:
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All medications may be taken in the morning with the exception of blood thinners.
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If the operation is taking place in the morning, you should not eat or drink anything. If you are being operated on in the afternoon, you may eat a light breakfast.
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No mascara or make-up
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Bring with you Delta Clinic : Tobradex drops (sealed bottle) and Isoptocarpine and cyclogyl 1% drops.
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The operation and preparation phase last about 1.5 hours. If there is any delay with patients before you, you will have to wait a little.
During the operation:
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The anaesthetic consists of an injection next to the eye.
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The ophthalmologist will take the time to explain everything to you, so that there are no surprises.
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An eyelid retractor will keep your eyelids open, so that you don’t accidentally blink.
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You won’t feel any pain.
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The entire operation will last about 1 hour.
After the operation
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You will not have to wear a pressure bandage after your operation.
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The protective transparent eye shell will have to be worn at night for one week after treatment.
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You must take the drops after the operation according to the following schedule:
- Tobradex eye drops (anti-inflammatory):
· 1 drop 4 x/day for +/- 12 weeks
· 1 drop 3x/day for +/- 1 month.
· 2 x/day long term.
-Cyclogyl 1% eye drops:
· 1 drop 2 x/day for +/- 3 weeks
-Cyclogyl + Tobradex to be used at 5 minute intervals!!!!
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The technique for using eye drops is very important:
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Do not touch the eyeball. Gently pull down the lower eye lid, while looking upwards. Squeeze the drop inside your eyelid, and then gently close your eye.
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Your vision will become clear in a matter of weeks. Any adjustment to your glasses will only be possible after at least 2 months.
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If you suffer any serious pain or agitation, you should inform your GP via the Emergency Department Delta Clinic : 02 434 81 11 or department ophthalmology: 02/434.81.09
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Do not plan any sport or other important activities in the days following the operation.
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Avoid dusty places!
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During the first 3 weeks: don’t rub your eyes!!!
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During the first 3 weeks: no swimming.
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During the first 2 weeks: don’t apply make-up.
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Make a note of the check-up appointments with your ophthalmologist on the 1st, 3rd, 10th day, 3rd week, and the 2nd and 3rd month after the operation. The healing will be evaluated after about 2 months and 6 months.
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After a graft, patients must often continue to use cortisone drops 1 to 2 times a day for the rest of their life.