Institute for Refractive & Intraocular Surgery
Not long ago minor surgery meant a night in the hospital. Today improved technology and techniques let you have minor surgery with little discomfort and return home the same day.
At the Institute for Refractive and Intraocular Surgery Center, our highly trained physicians and professional staff take the extra time to make you comfortable before, during, and after your surgery. We give each patient our personal attention.
Before Surgery
Your physician's office will schedule for you or your family member. Once scheduled, a member of our staff will call you to obtain further information and give you the time for your arrival at the surgery center. At that time, we will be happy to answer any questions your may have.
Ask your physician if you should discontinue any medications prior to your surgery date.
DO NOT EAT, DRINK, or CHEW anything after midnight the night before your surgery - including coffee, gum, mints, candy, and chewing tobacco - unless otherwise instructed.
Morning of your Surgery
Notify us immediately if you develop a fever, rash, or cold the morning of your surgery.
On the morning of your surgery please do the following:
- Take your heart and/or blood pressure medication with a sip of water.
- You may brush your teeth and rinse your mouth with water, but do not drink any of the water.
- Bathe or shower to reduce the risk of infection.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing, including shoes on, while in bed.
- Leave all valuables and jewelry at home.
- Do not wear makeup, perfume or lotions.
- If you wear glasses or contacts, bring a case to store them in. We will ask you to remove contact lenses and glasses when you dress for surgery.
- Bring your insurance card, a photo ID, or driver's license and reading glasses with you.
- Cell phones are not permitted.
- You should have a responsible driver who will remain in the facility while you are in surgery. Public transportation is not an acceptable means of patient transport unless accompanied by a responsible party.
After Surgery
The best part of any surgery is going home, and that's why at IRIS, we focus on a shortened facility recovery time. You will spend 15-45 minutes in the post-anesthesia care unit. A family member or friend can join you as soon as you feel ready.
Before you leave, the nurses will review the written take-home instructions for your post-operative care. You must have a friend or family member drive you home.
Anesthesia can make you drowsy after surgery. For the first 24 hours, have someone stay with you, get plenty of rest, and we urge you NOT TO:
- Drive or operate any equipment,
- Sign important papers,
- Make significant decisions, or
- Drink alcoholic beverages.
At IRIS, care doesn't end when you leave our facility. We will call to make sure you are having a smooth recovery and to answer any questions you may have. We urge you to call your physician immediately if you have any concerns. Your physician's office is on call 24 hours/day, (330)966-1111.
Billing/Financial Arrangements
As in the hospital, charges for facility services and supplies are billed separately from your doctors' fees. After your surgery, you will receive separate bills from you anesthesia provider, surgeon, and pathologist (if applicable).
We accept cash, checks, Mastercard, VISA, and Discover for those without insurance. We accept most insurance plans, including Medicare. If needed, we'll work with you to create a payment plan.
Please be familiar with your insurance before you arrive for surgery. Satisfying the conditions of an insurance policy is the responsibility of the patient, so when inquiring about coverage, ask your insurance company if it covers "freestanding ambulatory" facilities. Also, ask if any specific documents, such as a second surgical opinion, a letter of certification or a referral, are required.
If you have any questions regarding your insurance plan or a payment plan, please call us at (330)458-3000.