Everything you need to know before, during, and after your appointment at The Vision Surgeon. Practical answers to the questions patients ask most.
Or call 01206 670712.
Your first appointment is a free, no-obligation consultation. For most patients, this begins with a phone call where you discuss your vision, your concerns, and what you are hoping to achieve. This call helps Mr Mukherjee's team understand your situation and lets you ask initial questions before committing to an in-person visit.
The in-person assessment takes place at Colchester Eye Centre. Mr Mukherjee examines your eyes using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, biometry, OCT imaging, and visual acuity testing. The specific tests depend on the procedure you are considering. The assessment typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.
At the end of the appointment, Mr Mukherjee explains what your eyes need, which procedure (if any) is recommended, and why. You receive a written quote with clear pricing. There is no obligation to proceed on the day, and you are welcome to take time to consider your options.
Contact lens wearers: If you wear contact lenses, you will need to stop wearing them before your assessment so that your cornea returns to its natural shape for accurate measurements. The required period depends on the type of lens. Soft lenses should be removed at least 3 days before the appointment. Toric (astigmatism-correcting) soft lenses should be removed at least 7 days before. Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses should be removed at least 14 days before. If you are unsure which type you wear, the practice team will advise you when you book.
On the day: Bring your current glasses or contact lens prescription if you have it. If you have been seen by another eye specialist, bring any scans, letters, or reports you have been given. Your pupils may be dilated during the assessment, which makes your vision temporarily blurry and sensitive to light for 2 to 4 hours afterwards. Bring sunglasses. You may want to arrange for someone to drive you home, although many patients are comfortable driving once the dilation wears off.
Most surgical procedures at The Vision Surgeon are performed at the Colchester Eye Centre, First Floor, Colchester Primary Care Centre, Turner Road, Mile End, Colchester CO4 5JR. Cataract and lens replacement surgery is carried out at Oaks Hospital, 120 Mile End Road, Colchester CO4 5XR. Surgery is carried out as a day case: you come in, have the procedure, and go home the same day.
Before the procedure: Arrive at the time given by the practice team. You will be welcomed by the nursing team and prepared for surgery. Anaesthetic drops are applied to numb the eye. For most procedures, you are awake throughout and there are no injections. Mr Mukherjee will confirm the procedure plan with you before starting.
During the procedure: Procedure times vary. Laser eye surgery takes approximately 15 minutes. Cataract and lens replacement surgery takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Corneal transplant takes approximately 45 to 90 minutes. You may be aware of bright light and mild pressure, but you will not feel pain.
After the procedure: You rest briefly at the hospital. The nursing team checks that you are comfortable and provides your take-home drops and aftercare instructions. You go home the same day. A responsible adult must be available to drive you home. Do not plan to drive yourself.
Aftercare After Surgery
Every procedure at The Vision Surgeon includes aftercare appointments as part of the quoted price. Mr Mukherjee personally reviews your recovery at each follow-up visit.
Drops: You will be prescribed eye drops (typically antibiotic and anti-inflammatory) to use for a period after surgery. The practice team will explain the drop schedule clearly before you leave. Follow the schedule precisely, as it plays an important role in your healing and in preventing infection.
Follow-up appointments: The timing of follow-up visits depends on the procedure. Most patients are seen the next day and again at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months. Some procedures (such as corneal transplant or glaucoma surgery) require longer-term monitoring. Mr Mukherjee will explain your specific follow-up schedule during your consultation.
Contacting us between appointments: If you have any concerns about your eyes between scheduled follow-ups, contact the practice immediately. Do not wait for your next appointment if something feels wrong. The team is available by phone (01206 670712) and WhatsApp (07532 770027).
When Can You Drive After Surgery?
Driving after eye surgery depends on the procedure and your individual recovery. UK law requires a minimum visual acuity of 6/12 (roughly 20/40) to drive. Mr Mukherjee confirms at your follow-up appointment whether your vision meets this standard.
As a general guide, most LASIK patients can drive within 24 hours. TransPRK patients typically need 5 to 7 days. Cataract and lens replacement patients can usually drive within a few days. Corneal transplant patients may need several weeks or longer. Your ability to drive is always confirmed by Mr Mukherjee before you resume. Do not drive until you have been told it is safe to do so.
Mr Mukherjee provides a written quote during your consultation. The quote includes the procedure, the consultation, and all standard aftercare appointments. There are no hidden fees or charges added after your quote.
Payment can be made by bank transfer, debit card, or credit card. Finance options are available to spread the cost over monthly instalments. The practice team can discuss finance during your consultation or beforehand by phone.
Private health insurance: Some private health insurance policies cover certain procedures, particularly cataract surgery and glaucoma treatment. The practice team can help you check your coverage and handle the paperwork. Please have your policy details available when you call.
Where to Find Us
Consultations, Assessments and Most Surgery: Colchester Eye Centre, 1st Floor, Colchester Primary Care Centre, Turner Road, Mile End, Colchester CO4 5JR.
Cataract & Lens Replacement Surgery: Oaks Hospital, 120 Mile End Road, Colchester CO4 5XR.
Both locations have free parking directly outside. Bus routes serve the Mile End area. Both clinics are fully accessible. Evening and weekend appointments are available. Please check which location your appointment is at before travelling — the practice team confirms your appointment location in advance.
Book your free phone consultation and the practice team will answer any questions about payment, location, or preparation.
Or call 01206 670712
No referral needed. No obligation.
Call the practice team to arrange your free phone consultation. They can answer any practical questions about preparation, location, or payment before your appointment.
No referral needed. No obligation.
