Privata Squint Surgery in London: Complete Pre-Operative Guide

Table of Contents

• Understanding Your Squint Surgery: What to Expect Before the Procedure
• Essential Medical Tests and Assessments Before Squint Surgery
• Medications to Stop Before Your Eye Surgery: A Safety Checklist
• How to Prepare Your Home for Squint Surgery Recovery
• Pre-Operative Instructions: The 24 Hours Before Your Surgery
• What to Bring on Your Squint Surgery Day in London
• Arranging Post-Surgery Support and Transportation
• Common Questions About Squint Surgery Preparation Answered

Understanding Your Squint Surgery: What to Expect Before the Procedure

Proper preparation for squint surgery is fundamental to achieving optimal surgical outcomes and ensuring a smooth recovery process. Whether you’re undergoing strabismus correction for cosmetic reasons, functional vision improvement, or to address double vision, the pre-operative phase plays a crucial role in your overall treatment success. At London Squint Clinic, we understand that thorough squint surgery preparation not only enhances surgical results but also significantly reduces anxiety and helps patients feel confident and in control of their treatment journey.

The pre-operative period for squint surgery typically begins several weeks before your scheduled procedure date. During this time, you’ll undergo comprehensive assessments, receive detailed instructions from your squint surgeon, and make necessary arrangements for your surgery day and recovery period. This preparation phase is designed to identify any potential risk factors, optimise your health status, and ensure that both you and your surgical team are fully prepared for the procedure ahead.

Understanding what to expect before squint surgery helps demystify the process and allows you to approach your treatment with confidence. Your pre-operative journey will involve several key components: medical assessments to evaluate your suitability for surgery, medication reviews to identify any substances that might interfere with the procedure or healing process, practical preparations to ensure your home environment supports optimal recovery, and logistical arrangements including transportation and post-operative support.

Following pre-operative instructions meticulously is essential for several important reasons. Firstly, certain medications and supplements can increase bleeding risk during eye surgery, potentially complicating the procedure and affecting outcomes. Secondly, fasting requirements before anaesthesia are critical safety measures that prevent serious complications. Thirdly, proper preparation of your recovery environment ensures you can rest comfortably and follow post-operative care instructions effectively. Finally, arranging appropriate support and transportation eliminates unnecessary stress on surgery day and ensures you can focus entirely on your recovery.

The complexity of your squint surgery preparation may vary depending on several factors, including the type of strabismus being corrected, whether you’re an adult or paediatric patient, your overall health status, and any concurrent medical conditions. Adult patients undergoing squint correction typically have more straightforward preparation requirements, whilst children may need additional considerations regarding anxiety management and age-appropriate explanations. Regardless of your specific circumstances, our team at London Squint Clinic provides personalised guidance tailored to your individual needs, ensuring you feel fully supported throughout the entire pre-operative process.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every aspect of preparing for your squint surgery, from initial assessments through to the final hours before your procedure. By following these guidelines carefully and maintaining open communication with your surgical team, you’ll be optimally prepared for a successful outcome and smooth recovery.

Essential Medical Tests and Assessments Before Squint Surgery

Before proceeding with squint surgery, a comprehensive series of medical tests and assessments must be completed to ensure you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure and to plan the most effective surgical approach. These pre-operative evaluations are fundamental to achieving successful outcomes and minimising potential complications. At London Squint Clinic, our thorough pre-assessment process combines specialised ophthalmological examinations with general health screening to provide a complete picture of your surgical readiness.

The orthoptic assessment forms the cornerstone of your pre-operative evaluation for strabismus surgery. During this detailed examination, our specialist orthoptist will measure the precise degree of your eye misalignment in various positions of gaze. This involves testing your eye movements in nine different directions to identify which eye muscles are affected and to what extent. The orthoptist will also assess your binocular vision function, determining whether you have any degree of stereopsis (depth perception) and evaluating how your brain processes visual information from both eyes. These measurements are crucial for your squint surgeon to plan the exact surgical adjustments needed to achieve optimal eye alignment.

Visual acuity testing is performed to establish baseline measurements of your vision in each eye, both with and without corrective lenses if you wear them. This assessment helps identify any amblyopia (lazy eye) that may need to be addressed before or alongside surgical correction. Your surgeon will also conduct a comprehensive eye examination using a slit lamp to evaluate the health of your eye structures, including the cornea, lens, and retina. This examination ensures there are no underlying eye conditions that might affect surgical planning or outcomes.

Ocular motility measurements provide detailed information about how your eye muscles function. Your surgeon will assess the range of movement in each eye, identify any restrictions or overactions of specific muscles, and evaluate whether your squint is concomitant (the same in all directions of gaze) or incomitant (varying with gaze direction). These findings directly influence which muscles will be operated on and the type of surgical technique employed. In some cases, forced duction testing may be performed under topical anaesthesia to determine whether any mechanical restrictions are limiting eye movement.

For adult patients, particularly those over 40 or with relevant medical history, general health screening may include blood tests to check your full blood count, clotting function, and kidney function. These tests ensure you’re fit for anaesthesia and identify any factors that might increase surgical risks. An electrocardiogram (ECG) may be required if you have a history of heart conditions or if you’re taking certain medications. Patients with diabetes will need recent blood glucose measurements to ensure optimal metabolic control before surgery, as this significantly affects healing and infection risk.

Blood pressure measurement is a standard component of pre-operative assessment, as uncontrolled hypertension can increase bleeding risk during surgery and affect anaesthetic safety. If your blood pressure readings are elevated, you may need to consult with your GP to optimise control before proceeding with squint surgery. Similarly, if you have any respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, your lung function may need to be assessed to ensure safe anaesthesia administration.

For paediatric patients undergoing squint surgery, the pre-assessment process is adapted to be age-appropriate whilst still gathering all necessary clinical information. Children typically require a general anaesthetic for squint surgery, so a paediatric anaesthetist will review their medical history and conduct a physical examination. Parents or guardians will be asked detailed questions about their child’s general health, previous anaesthetic experiences if any, current medications, and any allergies. The assessment also includes measuring the child’s weight to calculate appropriate anaesthetic dosages.

Photographic documentation is an important part of the pre-operative assessment process. Clinical photographs of your eyes in various positions of gaze provide a permanent record of your pre-operative appearance and eye alignment. These images serve multiple purposes: they assist in surgical planning, provide a baseline for comparison with post-operative results, and contribute to your medical records. At London Squint Clinic, we ensure all photographic documentation is conducted professionally and stored securely in compliance with data protection regulations.

The timing of your pre-operative assessments is carefully planned to ensure all information is current when you undergo surgery. Most tests should be completed within three months of your scheduled procedure date, though some assessments such as blood tests may need to be more recent, typically within four to six weeks of surgery. Your surgical coordinator will provide you with a clear timeline for completing all necessary assessments and will ensure results are reviewed by your squint surgeon before your operation date is confirmed.

Medications to Stop Before Your Eye Surgery: A Safety Checklist

Medication management is a critical component of squint surgery preparation, as certain drugs and supplements can significantly affect surgical safety, bleeding risk, and healing outcomes. Understanding which medications to discontinue, which to continue, and the appropriate timeline for these changes is essential for minimising complications and optimising your surgical results. At London Squint Clinic, we provide detailed guidance on medication management tailored to your individual prescription regimen and health needs.

Anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications require particularly careful management before strabismus surgery. Drugs such as warfarin, clopidogrel, aspirin, and newer anticoagulants like rivaroxaban or apixaban can increase bleeding risk during and after eye surgery. However, the decision to stop these medications must be carefully balanced against the risk of thromboembolic events such as stroke or heart attack. If you take anticoagulants for conditions such as atrial fibrillation, previous deep vein thrombosis, or mechanical heart valves, you must not stop these medications without explicit instruction from both your squint surgeon and the doctor who prescribed them, typically your cardiologist or GP.

For patients taking aspirin for cardiovascular protection, the approach depends on whether it’s prescribed for primary prevention (reducing risk in someone who hasn’t had a cardiovascular event) or secondary prevention (preventing recurrence after a heart attack or stroke). Low-dose aspirin for primary prevention can usually be stopped seven to ten days before squint surgery. However, if you’re taking aspirin for secondary prevention, it will typically be continued throughout the surgical period as the cardiovascular risks of stopping generally outweigh the increased bleeding risk during eye muscle surgery. Your surgical team will make this determination based on your individual circumstances.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac should be discontinued at least one week before your squint surgery. These medications affect platelet function and can increase bleeding tendency. If you take NSAIDs regularly for conditions such as arthritis, discuss alternative pain management strategies with your GP well in advance of your surgery date. Paracetamol is generally safe to continue and can be used for pain relief during the pre-operative period.

Herbal supplements and complementary medicines often have anticoagulant properties that many patients are unaware of. Garlic supplements, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, vitamin E in high doses, fish oil, and omega-3 supplements should all be stopped at least two weeks before squint surgery. St John’s Wort can interact with anaesthetic medications and should be discontinued three weeks before your procedure. Even though these are natural products, they can have significant effects on bleeding and drug metabolism. It’s essential to disclose all supplements you take, even if they seem insignificant, as your surgical team needs a complete picture of everything that might affect your surgery.

If you take medications for diabetes, specific adjustments may be needed on the day of your surgery due to fasting requirements. Insulin-dependent diabetics will receive detailed instructions about modifying their insulin doses on surgery day, typically reducing or omitting their morning dose depending on their usual regimen and the timing of their procedure. Patients taking oral hypoglycaemic agents such as metformin may need to omit their morning dose on surgery day. Your surgical team will provide personalised guidance based on your diabetes management plan, and you should also discuss these changes with your diabetes specialist or GP.

Blood pressure medications should generally be continued right up to and including the morning of your surgery, taken with a small sip of water even during your fasting period. Maintaining stable blood pressure is important for surgical safety and anaesthetic management. However, certain blood pressure medications such as ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers may need to be omitted on surgery day in some cases. Your anaesthetist will review your medications during your pre-assessment and provide specific instructions if any changes are needed.

Medications for thyroid conditions, whether for hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, should be continued as prescribed throughout the surgical period. Stable thyroid function is important for healing and overall metabolic function. Similarly, medications for asthma, epilepsy, and other chronic conditions should be continued unless specifically instructed otherwise by your surgical team. If you use inhaled medications for asthma or COPD, bring these with you on surgery day as you may need them before or after your procedure.

Contact lens wearers must discontinue lens use before squint surgery to allow your corneas to return to their natural shape and reduce infection risk. Soft contact lenses should be stopped at least one week before surgery, whilst rigid gas permeable lenses require a longer discontinuation period of at least two weeks. During this time, you’ll need to wear glasses instead. This requirement applies even if you only wear lenses occasionally, as any recent lens wear can affect corneal measurements and increase infection risk.

For women taking hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, the approach depends on the type of medication and your individual risk factors. Combined oral contraceptives containing oestrogen slightly increase the risk of blood clots, and some surgeons recommend stopping these four weeks before surgery. However, for squint surgery, which is relatively low-risk for thromboembolism, continuation is often acceptable. This decision will be made on an individual basis considering your age, weight, smoking status, and other risk factors. Progesterone-only contraceptives do not need to be stopped.

It’s crucial to maintain a comprehensive and up-to-date list of all your medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbal remedies. Bring this list to your pre-operative assessment and surgery day. If you’re unsure about any medication, always ask rather than making assumptions. Never stop prescribed medications without consulting your doctor, as this could have serious health consequences. The team at London Squint Clinic works collaboratively with your other healthcare providers to ensure medication management is safe and appropriate for your individual circumstances.

How to Prepare Your Home for Squint Surgery Recovery

Creating a comfortable and well-organised recovery environment at home is an often-overlooked but essential aspect of squint surgery preparation. Proper home preparation ensures you can rest effectively, follow post-operative care instructions easily, and minimise unnecessary movement or stress during the critical early recovery period. Taking time to arrange your living space before surgery allows you to focus entirely on healing once you return home from the clinic.

Your recovery space should be a quiet, comfortable area where you can rest undisturbed for the first few days following squint surgery. Ideally, this should be your bedroom or a room where you can recline comfortably with your head elevated. Prepare your bed with extra pillows to allow you to sleep with your head raised at approximately 30 to 45 degrees, as this positioning helps reduce swelling around the eyes and promotes comfortable healing. Clean, fresh bedding should be in place, and you may want to have spare pillowcases available as some discharge from the operated eye is normal in the first few days.

Ensure your recovery area has adequate but not harsh lighting. You may find your eyes are sensitive to bright light following surgery, so having adjustable lighting options or blackout curtains can be helpful. A bedside lamp with a dimmer switch is ideal, allowing you to adjust light levels according to your comfort. Keep essential items within easy reach of your resting area, including your mobile phone, charger, water bottle, tissues, and any entertainment options such as audiobooks or podcasts. Remember that you should limit screen time and reading in the first few days after surgery, so audio entertainment is preferable to visual media.

Stock your home with all necessary supplies before your surgery date to avoid the need for shopping trips during early recovery. Essential items include prescribed eye drops or ointments, which should be collected from the pharmacy in advance. Store these at the correct temperature as directed and ensure you understand the administration schedule. You’ll also need clean cotton wool or gauze pads for gentle eye cleaning, a supply of clean towels designated for eye care, and a small bowl for preparing cooled boiled water if required for eye bathing. Ice packs or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a clean cloth can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the first 48 hours.

Pain relief medication should be purchased and readily available before surgery. Stock up on paracetamol as this is the recommended first-line pain relief following squint surgery. Ensure you have enough for several days and that you’re familiar with the correct dosage and timing. Keep these medications in an easily accessible location along with a glass or water bottle. If you’ve been prescribed any additional medications by your surgeon, collect these in advance and read the instructions carefully.

Prepare easy-to-eat meals and snacks before your surgery, as you may not feel like cooking in the first few days of recovery. Stock your refrigerator and cupboards with nutritious foods that require minimal preparation. Soups, smoothies, yoghurts, and soft foods are ideal for the first day or two when you may have reduced appetite due to anaesthetic effects. Ensure you have plenty of fluids available, as staying well-hydrated supports healing. Avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours after surgery as it can interact with pain medications and affect healing.

Safety considerations are important when preparing your home for recovery. Remove any trip hazards such as loose rugs, electrical cords, or clutter from pathways, particularly between your bedroom and bathroom. Your vision may be temporarily affected by swelling, discharge, or the eye pad if one is used, so clear pathways reduce the risk of accidents. Ensure adequate lighting in hallways and bathrooms, and consider using nightlights if you need to move around during the night. If you have stairs, ensure handrails are secure and consider limiting your use of stairs in the first few days after surgery.

Bathroom preparation is particularly important as you’ll need to maintain good hygiene whilst protecting your operated eye. Prepare clean towels specifically for face and eye care, keeping these separate from other towels to reduce infection risk. Have mild, unscented soap available for handwashing, as you’ll need to wash your hands thoroughly before administering eye drops or touching the eye area. If you normally wear makeup, remove all eye makeup products from your bathroom to avoid the temptation to use them during the restricted period following surgery. You should avoid eye makeup for at least two weeks after squint surgery.

For parents preparing for a child’s squint surgery, additional considerations apply. Create a comfortable recovery area where your child can rest and be easily supervised. Prepare age-appropriate entertainment that doesn’t require intense visual focus, such as audiobooks, music, or gentle television viewing at an appropriate distance. Have comfort items readily available, including favourite toys, blankets, or comforters. Stock up on child-friendly foods and drinks that your child enjoys, as maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration can be challenging if they’re uncomfortable or upset. Consider having special treats available as rewards for cooperating with eye drop administration or other aspects of post-operative care.

If you have pets, make arrangements to minimise their presence in your recovery area, particularly in the first few days after surgery. Pets can inadvertently cause injury by jumping on you or getting too close to your face, and they may increase infection risk. Arrange for someone else to handle pet care duties that require bending or physical exertion during your initial recovery period. Similarly, if you have young children, arrange childcare support so you can rest adequately without the demands of active childcare in the first few days following your procedure.

Prepare a checklist of post-operative care instructions provided by London Squint Clinic and display this in a prominent location where you’ll see it regularly. This might include the schedule for eye drops, activity restrictions, warning signs to watch for, and contact information for the clinic. Having this information clearly visible helps ensure you don’t miss important aspects of your post-operative care and provides peace of mind that you’re following all necessary instructions correctly.

Pre-Operative Instructions: The 24 Hours Before Your Surgery

The final 24 hours before your squint surgery are crucial for ensuring you arrive at the clinic in optimal condition for your procedure. Following pre-operative instructions precisely during this period significantly reduces the risk of complications and helps ensure your surgery proceeds as scheduled. At London Squint Clinic, we provide detailed guidance for this critical timeframe, and adherence to these instructions is essential for your safety and surgical success.

Fasting requirements are among the most important pre-operative instructions you’ll receive, and these must be followed exactly as directed. For adult patients undergoing squint surgery under general anaesthesia, you’ll typically be instructed to have nothing to eat for at least six hours before your scheduled surgery time. This means no food, chewing gum, sweets, or mints during the fasting period. The reason for this requirement is to ensure your stomach is empty, reducing the risk of aspiration (inhaling stomach contents into your lungs) if you vomit during anaesthesia induction or recovery. Aspiration is a serious complication that can cause severe lung damage, so fasting requirements must never be ignored or shortened.

Fluid intake follows slightly different rules than food. You’re typically allowed to drink clear fluids (water, black tea or coffee without milk, clear fruit juice without pulp) up until two hours before your scheduled surgery time. Staying hydrated up to this point is actually beneficial as it makes anaesthetic induction easier and helps you feel better during recovery. However, once the two-hour cut-off point arrives, you must not consume anything at all, including water, chewing gum, or mints. If you accidentally eat or drink after the cut-off time, you must inform the surgical team immediately as your surgery may need to be postponed for safety reasons.

For paediatric patients, fasting times are adjusted according to age. Infants and young children typically have shorter fasting periods than adults, and you’ll receive specific instructions based on your child’s age. Generally, breast milk can be given up to four hours before surgery, formula milk up to six hours before, and clear fluids up to two hours before. These timings are carefully calculated to balance the child’s nutritional needs with anaesthetic safety. Parents should ensure children don’t have access to food or drinks during the fasting period, which may mean removing snacks from their room and explaining the importance of not eating or drinking.

Personal hygiene on the day before and morning of surgery is important for reducing infection risk. Take a shower or bath the evening before your surgery, washing your hair and body thoroughly with regular soap. On the morning of surgery, if your procedure is scheduled for the afternoon, you may shower again, but avoid getting soap or shampoo directly in your eyes. Do not apply any lotions, creams, moisturisers, or oils to your face or body on surgery day, as these products can interfere with surgical preparation and monitoring equipment. Your skin should be clean and free from any cosmetic products.

All makeup must be completely removed before arriving for squint surgery. This includes eye makeup, foundation, powder, lipstick, and nail polish. Eye makeup in particular can harbour bacteria and interfere with the surgical field, whilst nail polish prevents accurate monitoring of oxygen levels through your fingernails during anaesthesia. Remove all makeup the night before surgery and do not apply any on surgery day. If you wear false eyelashes or eyelash extensions, these should ideally be removed several days before surgery. Contact lenses must not be worn on surgery day, even if you’ve already discontinued regular use as instructed earlier in your preparation.

Jewellery, piercings, and accessories should all be removed before coming to the clinic. This includes rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and any body piercings. If you have piercings that cannot be easily removed, inform the clinic in advance so appropriate arrangements can be made. Wedding rings that cannot be removed may be taped in place, but it’s preferable to remove all jewellery if possible. Do not wear watches or bring valuable items to the clinic. If you wear dentures, hearing aids, or glasses, bring a secure case for these items as you’ll need to remove them before surgery.

Clothing choices for surgery day should prioritise comfort and practicality. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that’s easy to remove and put back on, preferably with a front opening rather than items that need to be pulled over your head. Avoid tight collars or anything that might put pressure on your neck or face. Choose dark-coloured clothing as there may be some minor bleeding or discharge from your eye after surgery. Wear flat, comfortable shoes with good grip to reduce the risk of trips or falls when your vision may be temporarily affected. Bring a warm layer such as a cardigan or jacket as you may feel cold after anaesthesia.

Medication management in the final 24 hours requires careful attention to the instructions you’ve received during your pre-assessment. Take your regular medications as directed, which typically means continuing most chronic disease medications with a small sip of water on the morning of surgery, even during your fasting period. However, certain medications may need to be omitted, so follow the specific guidance provided by your surgical team. If you’re diabetic, follow the insulin or oral medication adjustments you’ve been given. If you’re unsure about any medication, contact the clinic for clarification rather than making assumptions.

Mental preparation is also important in the 24 hours before squint surgery. Try to get a good night’s sleep, although some anxiety is completely normal and understandable. Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before surgery as it can interact with anaesthetic medications and affect your recovery. If you’re feeling particularly anxious, practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation. Remember that squint surgery is a routine procedure for the experienced team at London Squint Clinic, and you’re in expert hands. Having a trusted friend or family member available for support can help reduce pre-operative anxiety.

Final practical preparations should be completed the day before surgery. Confirm your transportation arrangements and ensure your designated driver or escort knows the clinic location, your scheduled arrival time, and where to park. Pack your bag with all necessary items according to the checklist provided. Charge your mobile phone fully so you can stay in contact with your support person and access any information you might need. Set multiple alarms to ensure you wake up in time to prepare and arrive at the clinic as scheduled. Double-check that you have all required documentation, including identification and any insurance or payment information needed.

If you develop any illness in the 24 hours before surgery, such as a cold, cough, fever, or any other acute symptoms, contact London Squint Clinic immediately. Proceeding with surgery when you’re unwell can increase complication risks and may affect your recovery. Similarly, if you’ve been exposed to any infectious diseases or if anyone in your household is unwell, inform the clinic. In some cases, surgery may need to be postponed to ensure your safety and optimal outcomes. Whilst disappointing, rescheduling is always preferable to proceeding with surgery when conditions aren’t ideal.

What to Bring on Your Squint Surgery Day in London

Arriving at London Squint Clinic properly prepared with all necessary items ensures a smooth, stress-free surgery day experience. Having the right documents, personal items, and practical necessities readily available eliminates last-minute concerns and allows you to focus entirely on your procedure and recovery. This comprehensive checklist covers everything you should bring, as well as items that should be left at home for safety and security reasons.

Essential documentation forms the foundation of your surgery day checklist. Bring a valid form of photographic identification such as your passport or driving licence, as this is required to confirm your identity before any medical procedure. If you’re using private medical insurance to cover your squint surgery, bring your insurance card, policy number, and any pre-authorisation documentation you’ve received from your insurance provider. Even if payment has been arranged in advance, having this information readily available prevents any administrative delays. If you’re self-paying, bring confirmation of payment or be prepared to complete payment formalities upon arrival.

Your medical information should be compiled and easily accessible. Bring a complete list of all medications you currently take, including dosages and frequency. This list should include prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements, even if you’ve already provided this information during your pre-assessment. Medical situations can change, and having current information ensures your anaesthetist and surgical team have the most accurate data. If you have any allergies, particularly to medications, latex, or adhesive tapes, ensure this information is clearly documented and communicated to the clinical team.

Prescription medications that you need to take on surgery day should be brought with you in their original packaging. This typically includes essential medications such as those for blood pressure, heart conditions, thyroid disorders, or epilepsy that you’ve been instructed to take with a small sip of water on the morning of surgery. Having medications in original containers allows the clinical team to verify exactly what you’re taking and ensures there’s no confusion about dosages or timing. If you use an inhaler for asthma or COPD, bring this with you as you may need it before or after your procedure.

Comfortable, practical clothing is essential for surgery day. You should already be wearing loose, comfortable clothes with a front opening as discussed in the previous section, but bring an additional warm layer such as a cardigan, hoodie, or jacket. Clinical environments are often kept cool, and you may feel cold after anaesthesia. A scarf can be useful for warmth and can also provide some privacy and comfort around your face after surgery. Ensure all clothing is clean and freshly laundered to reduce infection risk.

Sunglasses are an essential item to bring for your journey home after squint surgery. Your eyes will likely be sensitive to light following the procedure, and sunglasses provide both comfort and protection. Choose wraparound style sunglasses if possible, as these provide maximum coverage and light blocking. Even if your surgery is scheduled for late afternoon or evening, bring sunglasses as artificial lighting may also cause discomfort. Dark sunglasses also provide privacy if you feel self-conscious about your appearance immediately after surgery.

A small bag or backpack is useful for carrying your belongings, but keep this minimal and practical. You’ll need somewhere secure to store your glasses if you wear them, as you’ll need to remove these before surgery. Bring a sturdy glasses case to protect them. If you wear contact lenses regularly, you should have already discontinued these as instructed, but bring your glasses even if you don’t usually wear them, as your vision may be temporarily affected after surgery and you’ll need visual correction for the journey home if you’re normally dependent on contacts.

Personal comfort items can help you feel more relaxed and at ease during your time at the clinic. A book or magazine can help pass time in the waiting area before your procedure, though remember you may not feel like reading after surgery. Your mobile phone is essential for staying in contact with your designated driver or support person, but ensure it’s fully charged before you arrive. Bring your charger and any necessary cables. Headphones can be useful if you want to listen to music or podcasts whilst waiting, helping to reduce anxiety and create a sense of calm.

A bottle of water can be brought for after your surgery, once you’ve been given permission to drink by the clinical team. You’ll likely feel thirsty after your fasting period and anaesthesia, so having water readily available is helpful. However, do not drink anything until you’ve been specifically told you may do so by the nursing staff. Some light snacks such as biscuits or a cereal bar can also be useful for after your procedure, as eating something light can help you feel better and reduce any nausea from the anaesthetic.

For parents bringing a child for squint surgery, additional items are necessary. Bring your child’s favourite comfort item such as a special toy, blanket, or dummy if they use one. These familiar objects can provide significant reassurance in an unfamiliar environment. Pack a change of clothes for your child in case of accidents or if their clothing becomes soiled. Bring age-appropriate snacks and drinks for after the surgery, choosing items you know your child likes and will be willing to consume. If your child takes any regular medications, bring these in original packaging with clear dosage instructions.

Items to leave at home are equally important to consider. Do not bring valuable jewellery, large amounts of cash, or expensive items that could be lost or stolen. The clinic cannot take responsibility for personal valuables, and you’ll need to remove jewellery before surgery anyway. Leave unnecessary credit cards and bank cards at home, bringing only what you need for any outstanding payments or purchases. Do not bring your contact lens case or solution as you won’t be able to wear contact lenses for at least two weeks after squint surgery.

Avoid bringing strong perfumes, colognes, or scented products on surgery day. Many people are sensitive to strong scents, and these can cause discomfort in clinical environments. Additionally, scented products can sometimes trigger nausea in patients recovering from anaesthesia. Keep your personal care products unscented and minimal. Do not bring aerosol products such as deodorant sprays or hair products, as these are often prohibited in clinical settings due to fire safety regulations and potential respiratory irritation.

A final checklist review the night before your surgery ensures you haven’t forgotten anything essential. Lay out all items you need to bring, checking each against the list provided by London Squint Clinic. Pack your bag and place it by the door along with your coat and shoes so everything is ready for a stress-free departure in the morning. Double-check you have your identification, any required documentation, your glasses if you wear them, sunglasses for after surgery, and your mobile phone with charger. Having everything prepared in advance eliminates morning stress and ensures you arrive at the clinic calm, prepared, and ready for your life-changing squint surgery.