What To Expect During Your First Visit:

Your first visit with Dr. Chen or Dr. Pharo is an important step in addressing your cosmetic, eye, eyelid, orbit or tearing concerns. During this initial consultation, you can expect a comprehensive evaluation and discussion of your condition. This appointment will take between 60-90 minutes, depending upon the complexity of your problem. Here is what you can anticipate from your first visit:

1. Medical History and Symptoms: The surgeon will begin by gathering your medical history, including any relevant eye or eyelid conditions, any systemic health issues, any allergies, or any previous surgeries. Be prepared to discuss any treatments you’ve received for these issues and have a list of your current medications including over-the-counter medicine, vitamins, or herbal supplements. Be prepared to discuss your symptoms, such as eyelid drooping, tearing, eyelid malposition, or cosmetic concerns, providing as much detail as possible to help the surgeon understand your specific needs. Be prepared to answer questions about what you hope to achieve with surgery

1. Physical Examination: The surgeon will perform a thorough examination of your eyes, eyelids, and surrounding structures. Your vision, eyelid position, skin quality, muscle function, tear drainage, and any signs of abnormalities or asymmetry will be documented. The examination may also include tests such as visual field testing, or imaging studies like photographs or CT/MRI scans to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.

2. Diagnosis and Treatment Options: Based on the examination findings, the surgeon will provide you with a diagnosis and discuss treatment options tailored to your specific condition. They will explain the recommended procedures or interventions, including their potential benefits, risks, and expected outcomes. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and clarify any concerns you may have.

3. Patient Education: Your surgeon will educate you about the diagnosis, procedure or treatment process, including preoperative preparation, anesthesia options, recovery period, and any postoperative care instructions. They will ensure you have a clear understanding of what to expect at each stage of the process, empowering you to make informed decisions about your treatment.

4. Personalized Treatment Plan: Following the examination and discussion, the surgeon will collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your goals, concerns, and medical needs. This plan may involve surgical or non-surgical interventions, such as eyelid surgery, tear duct procedures, cosmetic injections, or other oculoplastic treatments.

5. Additional Testing or Referrals: Depending on your specific situation, the surgeon may recommend additional tests, such as blood work, imaging studies, or consultation with other specialists, to gather more information or ensure a comprehensive evaluation.

6. Surgery and Follow up Scheduling: If you elect to proceed with surgery, your surgeon will obtain your verbal and written informed consent by which they will explain all of the risks, benefits, alternatives, complications, goals and descriptions of the surgery you will undergo. You will then see staff members who will help pick a surgery day and follow up day, typically 1 week following surgery.

Overall, your first visit with Dr. Chen or Dr. Pharo is an opportunity for you to communicate your concerns, receive an accurate diagnosis, and explore appropriate treatment options. It is essential to be open and honest about your symptoms and expectations to allow the surgeon to provide you with the best possible care.