Minor Operations FAQs
What should I bring with me?
Any eye drops and medication that you are taking, your glasses and reading material. Please wear a front fastening shirt or blouse as you will remain clothed for the operation.
What happens before my operation?
You may eat and drink a light breakfast if attending in the morning or a light lunch if attending in the afternoon before your operation and take your usual medication.
You will be given a local anaesthetic injection around the eye by the doctor. This numbs the area. Local anaesthetic eye drops may also be put into your eye.
Are there any risks with this operation?
There are some risks/complications as with all surgery. Serious risks are rare, but infection, allergies, bruising, recurrence of lesions and scar formations are possible.
What happens during my operation?
A nurse will help you relax on a bed and apply anaesthetic eyedrops. The doctor will provide a small local anaesthetic injection which may sting for a few seconds, after which the area will be numb. The procedure will likely be very quick. You will likely require an eyepad for about 30 minutes to soak up any blood stained tears.
What happens when I return from theatre?
You will be given some antibiotic ointment, an eyepad applied and then discharged.
What happens when I go home?
You will be allowed home approximately after half an hour.
You may have some stitches. These are dissolvable and take upto 6 weeks to dissolve.
You may have a pad or bandage which can usually be removed within 2 hours of your operation. Your eye pad may be slightly blood stained: this is nothing to worry about
You will be given eye ointment to be used several times a day, which will be labelled for you. This will be discussed on an individual basis.
The staff will explain how to use it. It may be helpful if you get a friend or relative to help you. If, however, you have any difficulties with the ointment, please let the staff know.
If you have some discomfort when the local anaesthetic wears off, take your usual pain relief tablet.
Your eyelid may be swollen and bruised – this will eventually settle. If your operated eye waters, wipe it away from below the cheek – you MUST NOT rub the eye.
When can I drive again?
Usually, you can drive the next day as long as your vision reaches the legal criteria as stated by DVLA. Community Eyecare provides a free home-to-hospital transport service for patients in need who pass specific criteria - if you're struggling to find transport either to the hospital or back home, please speak to a member of staff on our Referral Booking Management Team to see if you qualify for our home-to-hospital transport service on 0330 100 4730.
When can I go on holiday?
Generally, you should be able to go on holiday the next day, but please let your insurer know you have had a minor eyelid operation in any case.
