Before, on the day, and after.
Practical guidance, explained in simple terms, on what you need to know before an appointment or surgery, what to expect on the day of your examination or procedure, and how to prepare for your recovery.
Your consultation is an opportunity to discuss your eye health, symptoms and treatment options.
Please bring:
- Your glasses or contact lenses
- A list of your medications and eye drops
- Any previous eye reports, scans or photographs
- Your referral letter, if you have one
Please also mention any previous eye surgery or treatments.
During your visit, your eyes will be examined and, if necessary, additional tests or imaging may be performed. Dilating drops may be required, which can temporarily affect your vision. If your pupils are dilated, you may be advised not to drive afterwards.
Before your surgery, the surgical team will confirm your procedure and answer any questions you may have. You will also have the opportunity to discuss the anaesthesia and what to expect after surgery. Please follow the specific instructions provided by the clinic regarding eating, drinking and your regular medications.
On arrival, you will be prepared for surgery, which may include checking your vision, blood pressure and other routine observations. The eye to be treated will be confirmed and marked when appropriate. Most eye procedures are performed as day-case surgery, although some patients may need to stay in hospital depending on the type of surgery and their general health.
After the operation, you will receive instructions regarding eye drops, medication, eye protection and follow-up. Your vision may be blurred immediately after surgery, so you should arrange for someone to accompany you home and avoid driving.
Recovery varies depending on the type of surgery and your individual circumstances. Some patients recover quickly, while others may need several weeks before their vision and comfort improve. It is normal to experience some blurred vision, mild discomfort, redness or sensitivity to light during the early recovery period. Use your prescribed eye drops and medications as instructed.
Please avoid rubbing or pressing on the eye and follow any specific advice regarding exercise, lifting, swimming or other activities. Your follow-up appointments are an important part of your recovery and allow us to monitor healing and vision.
If you experience severe pain, a significant deterioration in vision, increasing redness or any other concerning symptoms, please contact the doctor promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to be seen?
You may arrange a private ophthalmic consultation directly, without requiring a referral from an ophthalmologist. If you have a referral letter, please bring it with you, along with any relevant imaging or previous medical reports.
Ophthalmologists may also contact Dr Diafas directly to discuss cases or arrange a specialist consultation.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Please bring the glasses you currently use, a list of your medications and their dosages, as well as any previous prescriptions, referral letters, medical reports, or imaging studies.
If pupil dilation is likely to be required, please bring sunglasses and do not drive after the examination.
Will my pupils be dilated, and can I drive?
Dilating eye drops are commonly used to examine the retina and may cause temporary blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light for several hours.
If pupil dilation is likely to be required, do not drive to or from your appointment. Arrange for someone to drive you or use public transport.
Will I Feel Pain During Surgery?
Most eye surgeries are performed under local anaesthesia, which completely numbs the area around the eye. You should not feel pain, although you may still perceive light, pressure, or gentle movement. Where medically necessary, general anaesthesia may be used.
After surgery, you may experience mild discomfort, which is usually managed with the eye drops and medication prescribed to you.
How long will recovery take?
Recovery time depends on the type of procedure and the condition of the eye. Injections and laser treatments are usually performed as same-day procedures, while recovery after cataract surgery is often relatively short. Recovery following retinal or ocular oncology surgery may take several days to several weeks.
Before any procedure, we will explain the expected recovery time and any restrictions on your daily activities.
Can I fly after surgery?
If a gas bubble has been placed in your eye, do not fly until it has been completely absorbed. Changes in atmospheric pressure during flight can cause a dangerous increase in intraocular pressure.
We will advise you when it is safe to travel. If no gas bubble has been used, the appropriate time to fly depends on the type of surgery, and you will receive personalised advice.
Referral from an Ophthalmologist
Referrals from fellow ophthalmologists are welcome and can be made directly. Please include the reason for referral, key clinical findings and, where available, relevant imaging studies (OCT, fundus photographs, etc.).
For urgent cases, please clearly indicate this when submitting the referral so that the case can be prioritised. You may also contact Dr Diafas directly to discuss the case and coordinate an appointment.
- For Referrals
- asterisdiafas@hotmail.com
- Telephone
- +30 6942406078
Still have a question?
For matters specifically concerning your eyes, please book an appointment to receive personalised medical advice based on your individual condition.
This page provides general information only and is not a substitute for an individual consultation.