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Patient FAQs
Below, we’ve addressed some common questions that patients have regarding their eye care. Have a look over our answers, and if you still have questions, feel free to contact us.
How often should I come in?
This depends on what you’re coming in for. If you have diabetes or hypertension without any disease in the eye, yearly exams are fine. Glaucoma patients are monitored quarterly, and sometimes more frequently if the pressure is higher than normal. Dry eye and blepharitis patients come in every 1-2 months, depending on when the disease is flaring. Post surgical patients are seen closely for the first month after surgery, and then at regular semiannual or annual visits. If you are coming in for a specific issue, Dr. Rapoport will provide you with a customized follow up plan.
How long will my exam last?
This depends on for what you are coming in. A complete dilated exam may take up to an hour. A full cataract evaluation including testing and counseling may take up to an hour and a half. Similar for a LASIK evaluation.
If you are coming in with an acute complaint for an irritated eye or eyelid, for example, the exam may take 30 minutes.
How long does dilation last & what can I expect?
Dilation involves drops that enlarge your pupil so Dr. Rapoport can have a full view of your retina and optic nerve. This is typically done yearly, or more commonly if your condition requires it. Dilation typically lasts 3-4 hours. It will mainly affect your near vision, but may affect your distance vision as well. It is not dangerous to use your eyes during this time, it just may be be a little uncomfortable. You may be sensitive to sunlight and may want to wear sunglasses. It is safe to drive because your distance vision may not be affected.
If I am coming in for measurements for cataract or LASIK surgery, how long should I be out of my contact lenses?
• Regular soft contact lenses – 10-14 days
• Toric (astigmatism correcting) soft contact lenses – 21-28 days
• Rigid gas permeable (hard lenses) – 1 week for every decade of life of wear
I don't do well with drops or people touching my eyes!
Not to worry! Dr. Rapoport sees many “first timers” and has an incredibly gentle touch.
Is it really time for Botox? All my friends have started to get it…
Botox has been proven in the literature to be the only way to prevent wrinkles from settling in. It should be part of a preventative skin care regimen, along with religious SPF, and yearly mole checks. Age 25-26 is an appropriate age to begin preventative botox, as this is before the lines have started to settle in. Botox at any age has tremendous benefits to prevention and removal of wrinkles.
Dr. Rapoport was fantastic - she explained all my options in detail and was very diligent in giving me instructions pre/post operations - even when I asked twice/three times. She's always available to talk and super empathetic. I could not recommend a better eye surgeon!”
I feel confident in her abilities - and it is my eyesight afterall!”