Patient Information

What happens at your first consultation?

Your consultation with Dr Timlin typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes. It is unhurried, thorough, and there is no obligation to proceed with anything on the day.

Dr Timlin will take time to understand what has brought you to see her, whether that is a medical condition affecting your eyes or eyelids, or a cosmetic concern you have been thinking about for a while. She will ask about your history and carry out a careful examination. For cosmetic consultations, she will discuss what you are hoping to achieve and give you an honest view of what results are realistic for you.

For medical conditions such as watery eyes, eyelid lumps, or eyelid position problems, Dr Timlin will explain what she has found, what is causing it, and what the options are. She will talk you through the benefits and limitations of each approach so you can make an informed decision.

Dr Timlin's approach is straightforward. If she thinks a procedure will give you a good result, she will explain how. If she thinks it is not the right option, she will say so. You will never feel pushed toward a treatment you do not need.

You will leave with a clear understanding of your options and a written treatment plan so you can take your time deciding. Many patients choose to go ahead the same day, but there is absolutely no pressure to do so.

How should I prepare for surgery?

The clinic team will send you detailed pre-operative instructions tailored to your specific procedure well in advance of your surgery date. There is no need to worry about remembering everything from your consultation as it will all be set out clearly in writing.

There are a few things that help most patients feel prepared and confident on the day.

In the days before surgery

Dr Timlin or her team will let you know if you need to stop or adjust any medications. This commonly applies to blood-thinning medicines, but the advice will be specific to you. If you are unsure about anything, the clinic team are always happy to take your call on 020 4586 4539.

On the day

Wear comfortable, loose clothing that you do not need to pull over your head. Avoid eye makeup. Follow the eating and drinking guidance you have been given, which varies depending on whether you are having a local or general anaesthetic. Bring any eye drops or medications you normally use. You will not need to bring anything else as the clinic provides everything required.

Getting home

For procedures carried out under sedation or general anaesthetic, you will need someone to collect you and stay with you for the first night. You will not be able to drive yourself home. For minor procedures under local anaesthetic, Dr Timlin will advise whether you need someone with you or whether you are fine to make your own way home. It is worth thinking about this in advance so it is one less thing to organise on the day.

Time off work

Most patients take one to two weeks off depending on the procedure. If your job involves physical activity, heavy lifting, or dusty environments, you may need a little longer. Dr Timlin will give you a realistic timeline at your consultation so you can plan ahead with your employer.

What should I expect during recovery?

The individual pages under Treatments give detailed recovery timelines for each specific procedure. As a general guide, there are a few things that are common across most eyelid and tear duct surgery.

Some bruising and swelling around the eyes is normal and expected. This usually peaks at around two to three days and then gradually settles over the following week or two. Cool compresses and keeping your head elevated can help. Mild discomfort is common but most patients find it manageable with simple painkillers such as paracetamol. Stronger pain is unusual and should prompt a call to the clinic.

Before you leave the hospital, you will be given clear aftercare instructions covering how to clean the area, which eye drops or ointment to use, and what to avoid in the early days. The clinic team will also give you contact details to use if you have any concerns at all during your recovery.

A follow-up appointment is usually arranged within one to two weeks so Dr Timlin can check your healing, remove any stitches if needed, and make sure everything is progressing as expected. Further follow-up is arranged as needed.

Most patients say that the recovery was easier than they expected. The first few days require patience, but the improvement from that point is usually steady and encouraging.

One important note. If at any point you experience sudden changes in your vision, severe pain, heavy bleeding, or signs of infection such as increasing redness, swelling, or discharge, contact the clinic straight away. Do not wait for your follow-up appointment. Dr Timlin and her team would always rather hear from you early than late.

Guide prices

Knowing what to expect financially is important, so here is a guide to Dr Timlin's typical fees. Exact costs depend on the complexity of your individual case and will be confirmed in a written quote after your consultation.

Paying for your treatment

Many of Dr Timlin's patients choose to self-pay, particularly for cosmetic procedures such as blepharoplasty. Self-funding is straightforward and gives you complete flexibility over timing and choice of surgeon.

For patients with medical insurance, Dr Timlin is recognised by all major insurers, including:

If you plan to use your insurance, check with your provider before booking to confirm that you are covered for the specific procedure. You will need to obtain a pre-authorisation code and provide this to the clinic when you book. The clinic then handles the billing directly with your insurer so you do not need to pay upfront and claim back.

Not all procedures are covered by insurance. Cosmetic surgery for aesthetic reasons is not typically covered, though blepharoplasty for functional reasons, where hooded eyelids are obstructing your vision, may be. Your insurer can advise on what your policy includes.

Frequently Asked Questions