What happens next depends on the eye condition the ophthalmologist thinks you have. In most cases you will probably have to visit the clinic within the next few months for more examinations and tests.
Any treatment that may be necessary - whether this is surgery, laser procedures or medication - will be explained to you and any questions you have about them should be addressed.
When the eye specialist thinks everything possible has been done, you will be discharged. In some cases you may never have to return; in others you may need to go back at some time, especially if you have a longstanding condition that needs to be monitored, such as glaucoma.
Some hospitals may give you a direct telephone number that you can use if you experience major changes in your vision in the period between regular appointments.
If you have been discharged but then your sight changes, it is very important to go to your GP and ask for a new appointment with the eye specialist.
To find out more about your condition, go to our easy to read information on the most common eye conditions.
If you are not happy with the outcome
If you are not happy with the service it is usually possible to sort it out with the staff at the clinic.
However, if you are unsure of how to take things forward all hospitals have Patient Advice and Liaison services (PALS). PALS is a confidential service for patients and their families, to help deal with any questions or concerns you may have about local health services and to offer support if needed. Your GP should be able to tell you how to contact your local PALS service.
If you need more help
This begins when you leave hospital. If you need help or advice, the best place to start is the local social services department or local society for blind and partially sighted people.
If your sight is poor, in many instances, registering a severely sight impaired (blind) and sight impaired (partially sighted) makes it more likely that you will get the help and support you need.
It can be useful sometimes to talk to people who have been through similar experiences.
You could meet people through a support group for people with particular eye conditions or through a local society for people with poor sight. Use our organisations database to find groups near you.
Our Adapting to sight loss and Sources of support pages offer more ideas on where to find support and advice.