Consultation Process

Preparing for Your Appointment

To get the most out of your consultation, we recommend bringing the following documents and information:

• Identification: Passport or national ID card.
• Insurance information: Health insurance card or policy details, if applicable.
• Previous medical records: Prior eye examination reports, blood tests, or imaging results, if available.
• Medication list: All medications you take regularly, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements.
• Photographs: Older photographs showing your eyelids in the past (especially from younger years) can be helpful for comparison.

Please arrive wearing comfortable clothing. Avoiding eye makeup before your appointment will facilitate the clinical examination.

What Happens During the Examination?

An oculoplastic consultation is more comprehensive than a standard eye examination. The following steps are performed by Op. Dr. Burak Akbay:

1. Discussion of concerns: Your eyelid or periocular complaints, their duration, and how they affect your daily life are discussed in detail.
2. Eyelid examination: Lid position, skin excess, muscle tone, and symmetry are assessed. Specialized measurements (MRD1, MRD2), levator function testing, and snap-back testing may be performed.
3. Visual field testing: If upper eyelid skin is restricting your peripheral vision, an objective visual field test may be conducted. This is important for functional blepharoplasty evaluation.
4. Clinical photography: Standardized photographs are taken for treatment planning and outcome comparison.
5. Tear assessment: Tear quantity and quality are evaluated. Dry eye findings may influence the surgical plan.
6. Additional tests: If indicated, visual acuity, intraocular pressure, fundus examination, or imaging studies may be ordered.

After the Examination

Once the examination is complete, the findings are shared with you in detail. The following topics are discussed:

• Explanation of findings: The examination results are communicated clearly, supported with visual aids and diagrams when helpful.
• Treatment options: Surgical and non-surgical options, along with their advantages and limitations, are explained.
• Shared decision-making: The treatment decision is never made unilaterally. Your expectations, concerns, and life circumstances are all taken into account.
• Realistic expectations: Expected outcomes, the recovery process, and potential risks are discussed openly and honestly.

If a surgical procedure is decided upon, you will receive detailed information about pre-operative preparation, and any necessary tests will be ordered.

How Long Does the Consultation Take?

An oculoplastic consultation typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. The duration may vary depending on the complexity of the condition and the number of tests required. The initial consultation is generally longer than follow-up visits, as it involves a detailed history and comprehensive evaluation.

Arriving on time helps reduce waiting and ensures adequate time is allocated for your examination.

Common Questions

Do I need a referral?

No referral is required. You can book an appointment directly. For patients with insurance coverage, the hospital registration process will provide guidance on necessary documentation.

Is an online consultation possible?

General information can be provided via phone or WhatsApp before your visit. However, accurate diagnosis and treatment decisions for eyelid and periocular conditions require an in-person examination. The definitive treatment plan is always established during the clinical consultation.