The initial consultation is a critical starting point. It is the first step for you and Dr. DeBacker to make a personal connection. Creating a dialogue is imperative to allow your expectations to fit those of Dr. DeBacker’s. Dr. DeBacker’s goal is happy, satisfied patients, and this requires an introduction where you can feel comfortable expressing your concerns.

Dr. DeBacker and his staff will start by taking a medical and ophthalmologic history, including past surgeries, medication usage and allergies. Dr. DeBacker will want to know if you have had any of the following:

• Eye or eyelid surgery, including refractive surgery (i.e, LASIK)
• Facial or eye trauma
• Graves eye disease (thyroid-related eye disease)
• Dry eyes and rheumatologic conditions (i.e., Rheumatoid Arthritis)
• Bleeding disorders, or the use of blood thinners (coumadin, Plavix, aspirin): (see section on medications to avoid before surgery which may cause bleeding/ bruising)

A physical examination, including an ophthalmologic examination, will help determine the treatment plan. This will be discussed with you in detail by means of drawings, photographs, and literature. Dr. DeBacker encourages you to ask questions.