Cheshire Eye Surgery | Initial Consultation

Appointment Preparation

1. Gather Medical Information

Bring your current glasses or contact lenses
Prepare a list of medications, including eye drops, supplements, and over-the-counter medicines
Be ready to discuss your medical history, especially:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Autoimmune conditions
- Thyroid disease
Note any previous eye conditions, surgeries, or test results
Know your family history of eye disease (e.g. glaucoma, macular degeneration)

2. Note Your Symptoms

Write down details about your symptoms, including:

When the symptoms started
Whether they are constant or come and go
Any triggers (e.g. reading, screen use, bright light)
Changes in vision such as blurring, double vision, floaters, flashes, pain, redness, or headaches

3. Expect Eye Drops and Pupil Dilation

Pupil-dilating eye drops are often used during first visits
Your vision may be blurred and light-sensitive for 4–6 hours
Bring sunglasses
Avoid driving yourself if possible

The Appointment

Tests and Assessments

Vision testing, including reading letters on a chart
Measurement of eye pressure
Eye drops may be used to widen (dilate) your pupils
Photographs or scans of your eyes may be taken

Consultation with the Ophthalmologist

Discussion of your symptoms and medical history
Examination of the front and back of your eyes
Discussion of how your eye health relates to your general health
Opportunity to ask questions and raise concerns

Time Expectations

Initial ophthalmology appointments may take between 1 and 2 hours, as multiple tests are often required.

Appointment Outcome

Possible Outcomes

An explanation of your eye condition or a working diagnosis
Advice on managing your symptoms
Prescription of treatment, such as eye drops or glasses
Referral for further tests or imaging if needed

Next Steps

Arrangements for follow-up appointments if required
Guidance on when to seek urgent help if symptoms worsen
Written information or instructions to take home

If anything is unclear, you are encouraged to ask questions during or after the appointment.