The Associated Eye Care Ambulatory Surgery Center offers the best in outpatient ophthalmic care and surgical technology in Minnesota. Conveniently located just off Highway 36 in Stillwater, MN. We’ve created a relaxed, patient-focused environment in which our skilled physicians and experienced staff continue to provide the highest level of medical and surgical eye care in the Twin Cities region.
We understand that you may be anxious before your procedure. We strive to make your experience comfortable and positive, and this page will help you to know what to expect. For additional information, call 651.275.3112 or 800.846.1877 to speak to our staff.
The Associated Eye Care Ambulatory Surgery Center shares a building with our Stillwater clinic:
2950 Curve Crest Boulevard
W Stillwater, MN 55082
Pre-Operative Information
An Associated Eye Care Ambulatory Surgery Center nurse will contact you by telephone at least 3-4 days before your scheduled procedure regarding your arrival time, special instructions and insurance information. You will receive instructions as to when you must stop eating, drinking and chewing gum before your surgery. It is very important to follow these instructions to avoid delay or cancellation of surgery. Please notify our staff if you require an interpreter.
Call 651.275.3112 or 800.846.1877 if you have not been contacted at least three days before your procedure.
Please do not drink any alcohol or use any tobacco products for at least 24 hours prior to surgery.
If you develop an illness or infection, please notify the nurses at the surgery center.
Arrange for a responsible adult to act as your caregiver. This caregiver will:
Accompany you to surgery.
Receive your discharge instructions.
Drive you home – anyone receiving sedation cannot drive for a full 24 hours.
Stay with you or ensure another responsible adult stays with you for the first 24 hours.
The Day of Your Surgery
Oral medication may be taken with a sip of water—please consult your surgeon about acceptable medications.
Diabetics should consult with their primary physicians regarding insulin dosages on the day of surgery. Insulin and other supplies should be brought to the Associated Eye Care Ambulatory Surgery Center.
If you have a hearing aid, wear it to the Ambulatory Surgery Center.
Bring the case for your contacts or glasses.
Jewelry and valuables, especially facial piercings, should be left at home.
Avoid makeup, nail polish, lotion or hair products.
Be sure not to eat or drink the morning of your procedure. You may brush your teeth. Specific instructions about when to stop eating or drinking will be given to you when you are called at least 3-4 days prior to your surgery by the Associated Eye Care Ambulatory Surgery Center nurse.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can be easily removed when you return home.
Bring your insurance information, including any worker’s compensation claims information that may apply.
Check in at the front desk with your caregiver.
You will receive an ID bracelet, which you must wear while at the Associated Eye Care Ambulatory Surgery Center.
Your nurse, surgeon, and anesthetist will evaluate you before surgery.
You may remain with your caregiver until surgery.
Please do not hesitate to ask questions or voice any concerns to our staff at any time.
Visitors & Caregivers
When you check in upon your arrival, please be sure to register your caregiver as well. Our staff may need to communicate with this individual, and we must know whom to contact regarding your procedure.
Because we have limited space, we ask that no more than two people accompany you in the pre-surgery area.
The caregiver waiting area includes free coffee and entertainment.
Caregivers are encouraged to remain at the Associated Eye Care Ambulatory Surgery Center while your procedure is in progress. If your caregiver needs to leave the center, a phone number should be left with the front desk in case they need to contact him or her arises. Your surgeon will speak to you and your caregiver together after your procedure. Caregivers will also be made aware of your Bill of Rights.
Post-Operative Information
After your procedure, you will be taken to a recovery room for monitoring.
Your recovery time will be determined by your general health and procedure. Your post-operative check-up schedule and medications will be discussed with you and your caregiver.
You will receive instructions about what to do at home in order to ensure a speedy recovery.
Our Commitment to You
From the moment you arrive at the Associated Eye Care Ambulatory Surgery Center to the moment you return home, our dedicated staff will be available to assist you, answering any questions you may have and working to make you as relaxed as possible. It’s all part of Associated Eye Care’s overall goal to provide you and your family with great vision for a lifetime.
Other Information
Cellular Phones may be used outside the waiting area of the Associated Eye Care Ambulatory Surgery Center. We ask that visitors and patients limit cell phone use in the waiting room as it is distracting to other patients and visitors.
