The Associated Eye Care Surgery Center
The Associated Eye Care Surgery Center offers the best in outpatient ophthalmic care and surgical technology. Conveniently located just off Highway 36 in Stillwater, MN, this state-of-the-art eye center includes a full-service clinic, laser treatment center and optical shop in addition to the surgery center. 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 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 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 one week before your scheduled procedure regarding:
Arrival time • Surgery time
Special instructions • 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.
Click here to download a PDF of the Associated Eye Care Ambulatory
Surgery Center Patients' Bill of Rights.
Click here to download a PDF of the Minnesota Outpatient Surgical Center Patients’ Bill of Rights.
Click here to download a PDF of the Advanced Directives and Physician Financial Interest Notification.
Click here to download an editable PDF of the History & Physical Form for your primary provider to fill out.
Click here to download important information for your Primary Health Care Provider to include with your History & Physical form.
Cataract Eye Drop Instructions
Follow instructions from your surgeon.
Dr. Tubbs Instructions - Regular
Dr. Tubbs Instructions - LIOL
Dr. Park Instructions - Regular
Dr. Park Instructions - LIOL
Dr. Schwartz Instructions - Regular
Dr. Schwartz Instructions - LIOL
Dr. Lane Instructions - Regular & LIOL
Dr. Downie Instructions - Regular & LIOL
Dr. Wu Instructions - Regular & LIOL
Before Your Surgery
- 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 your surgery scheduler.
- 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 until the next day
- stay with you or ensure another responsible adult stays with you overnight.
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 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 one week prior to your surgery by the 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 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 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 the need to contact him or her arises.
- Your surgeon will speak to you and your caregiver together after your procedure.
Post-Operative Information
- After your procedure, you will be lead 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 Surgery Center to the moment you return home, our dedicated staff will be there 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 in the Ambulatory Surgery Center and our facility also includes phones for your use. Our Center is conveniently located near numerous restaurants and retail stores. Our staff can provide directions to local businesses. We will provide information on accommodations for patients who live outside the Stillwater area.
For more information, visit these sites:
Minnesota Department of Health - Health Care DirectivesSuggested Form For Minnesota Health Care Directive
Suggestions For Completing A Minnesota Health Care Directive
Wisconsin Health Care Directives
