Premium intraocular lens surgery is not just a one day event. It is a process that unfolds across multiple appointments and providers. The relationship between the optometrist and the surgeon, if managed well, can make the entire journey smoother for the patient and more successful for everyone involved.
To make co-management seamless, here are the essential do’s and don’ts that both optometrists and surgeons should follow.
What to Do
✔ Share the lens conversation early
Let the surgeon know which lenses were discussed before referral. Document the conversation and patient preferences in the medical record. This allows the surgeon to build on the discussion rather than start from zero.
✔ Explain visual terms ahead of time
Patients may not understand words like astigmatism, monovision, or multifocal. Optometrists have the trust and time to explain these clearly. A brief discussion about how modern lenses can address vision issues can open the door to premium options.
✔ Bring relevant history forward
Medications like Flomax or a history of trauma affect surgical planning. Surface disease like dry eye or central staining impacts IOL accuracy. Share all of it. As Dr. Karpecki says, “You cannot get the right calculations without a healthy surface.”
✔ Set expectations for postoperative care
Let patients know that you will be part of their recovery. It reinforces your relationship and keeps patients from feeling abandoned after surgery.
“Tell patients you typically share in the care of postoperative exams,” says Dr. Whitley. “It keeps them confident in both the optometrist and the surgeon.”
What to Avoid
✘ Do not suggest lenses that may not be appropriate
Patients with retinal disease, glaucoma, irregular corneas, or LASIK history may not do well with premium lenses. Avoid making specific recommendations. Instead, introduce the idea and defer final decisions to the surgeon.
✘ Do not refer too early
Ensure patients stop contact lens use at least two weeks before testing. If a patient has Fuchs dystrophy or dry eye, treat those conditions first. Premature referrals can compromise surgical planning.
Why It All Matters
Successful co-management depends on clarity, preparation, and collaboration. When optometrists educate patients ahead of time and surgeons follow through with precise evaluation and lens selection, the results are stronger.
This approach reduces appointment time, improves lens selection accuracy, and most importantly, helps patients feel supported the entire way through.
Want to streamline co-management and patient education?
Visit GetHoot.com/cataract-surgery to learn how you can align your entire referral network around a smarter and simpler IOL journey.