FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs - New Patients
"Do I need a referral?"
Yes. You can obtain this from your Optometrist or General Practitioner
"How much will it cost?"
Our staff will advise you of all costs when you make your appointment. Reduced fees are offered for pensioners.
"What do I bring?"
As you may be light sensitive after your examination, we recommend bringing sunglasses.
"How long does it take?"
At your first consultation you will undergo a comprehensive eye examination by our ophthalmologists. Most patients will undergo a series of scans and photographs . You can expect to be at the surgery for approximately 1-2 hours
"Can I drive after my consultation?"
In order to perform a comprehensive examination your pupils will be dilated. It is best not to drive for 2 hours after your consultation as you will be light sensitive and your vision will be blurry. We recommend you have someone drive you home.
FAQs - Cataract Surgery
"Do I need a referral?"
Yes. You can get this from your Optometrist or General Practitioner.
"How much will it cost?"
At Southside Eye Centre we routinely offer 'NO GAP' cataract surgery for patients with private health insurance. Our staff will advise you of all options and fees at the time of consultation.
"Can I have both eyes done at the same time?"
No. Best results are achieved when the surgery is done on different days. Normally each surgery is done 1-2 weeks apart.
"How long does it take?"
You will be required to be at the day surgery hospital for about 3 hours. The surgery typically takes about 30 minutes.
"Will it hurt?"
Cataract surgery is performed using light sedation and local anaesthetic. Even the most nervous individuals commonly express how easy the operation is to undergo. The eye will be tender and gritty for a short period after, but in most cases this subsides quickly.
"When can I get back to work?"
This is dependent upon the type of duties you perform and your doctor will advise you specifically, but the eye patch is removed the day after and so a normal routine will usually quickly resume.
"When can I resume driving?"
Most patients can resume driving within 2-3 days of surgery. Your specialist will give you specific instructions after your surgery
"Will I need glasses after surgery?"
Most people will notice a reduced dependency for glasses after surgery. Often, a weak pair of reading glasses is all that is required after surgery. For suitable patients there are newer lens designs that can allow patients spectacle independance. Your doctor will advise if you are suitable for these lenses, and the configuration that best suits your visual requirements, expectations, and budget.
"Where will the cataract surgery take place?"
If you are booked for surgery you will most likely have the procedure done at the close by, Eye-Tech Day Surgery facility.
Our reception staff can provide all the details for times and requirements prior to surgery.
Eye Tech is located at 22 Sanders Street, Upper Mount Gravatt