If you have scheduled LASIK surgery to permanently correct your vision, preparing beforehand can help you feel more confident and relaxed going into the procedure. From understanding the process to planning ahead, being prepared can ensure your LASIK journey is as smooth, safe, and successful as possible.
Keep reading to learn more about how you should prepare before your LASIK procedure.
What is LASIK?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular laser vision correction procedure used to correct common refractive errors, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure reshapes the cornea so that light entering the eye focuses properly on the retina, resulting in clear, crisp vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
LASIK is performed using precise, specialized lasers and typically takes less than 15 minutes per eye. It’s virtually painless, thanks to numbing eye drops, and most patients notice a dramatic improvement in vision within 24 hours after the procedure.
During LASIK, a thin flap is created on the surface of the cornea. Once the flap has been gently folded back, the tissue underneath is reshaped to correct vision.
The procedure is completed with the replacement of the corneal flap. The flap will fully heal on its own without the need for stitches.
What to Expect on the Day of LASIK
On the day of your LASIK procedure, you will be guided into the surgical suite. Your eye surgeon will review your treatment plan with you one last time and answer any final questions you may have.
To ensure your comfort during the procedure, numbing eye drops will be applied to your eyes. You may also be given a mild sedative to help you relax, but you will be awake through the entire procedure.
Most LASIK patients say the procedure itself is surprisingly quick and easy. They often say they feel some pressure during the procedure, but no actual pain.
After the procedure is complete, you will be taken to a recovery area to rest before being discharged and sent home. While vision is usually hazy immediately after LASIK, many patients report a noticeable improvement in their eyesight within hours.
Your LASIK surgeon will provide you with post-operative instructions and protective eye shields to wear while sleeping. You’ll be scheduled for a follow-up appointment the next day so your eye doctor can monitor your healing and let you know when it’s safe to resume normal activities.
How to Prepare for LASIK
Here are some of the simple steps you can take to be prepared for your LASIK procedure:
Discontinue Contact Lens Use
If you wear contact lenses, you will need to stop wearing them before your procedure to allow your corneas to return to their natural shape, ensuring accurate treatment planning and outcomes. Typically, soft contact lens wearers need to discontinue use 1-2 weeks before the procedure, while hard or gas-permeable lens wearers require 3-4 weeks of discontinuation.
At your pre-operative consultation, you can ask your ophthalmologist about the right timeline for you.
Arrange Transportation
You should arrange for transportation to and from your appointment, as you won’t be able to drive after the procedure. This person should also drive you to your follow-up appointment the next day.
Create a Comfortable Recovery Space
Take some time to prepare your home environment for recovery. Create a quiet, dimly lit area that is free of screens, allowing you to rest your eyes without any distractions.
Even if your vision is improving, giving your eyes a chance to rest can help shorten recovery times and reduce the risk of complications.
Avoid Makeup or Skincare Products
In the 24 hours preceding LASIK, avoid applying creams, serums, and makeup to your face, especially around the eyes. These products can leave residue or increase the risk of infection after the procedure.
Pick Up Prescriptions
It’s a good idea to pick up any necessary prescriptions, over-the-counter eye drops, or other essential supplies for your recovery so you can prioritize rest.
What Restrictions Will I Have to Follow after LASIK?
To ensure your healing process goes as smoothly as possible, you should follow all of your eye doctor’s post-operative instructions, which may include:
- Applying prescription eye drops to reduce inflammation and prevent infection
- Refraining from driving
- Avoiding strenuous activities
- Not rubbing your eyes
- Wearing a protective eye shield while you sleep
- Wearing sunglasses when outside
- Avoiding getting water in your eyes
- Refraining from wearing makeup around your eyes for at least a week
During your preoperative LASIK consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to ask your eye doctor about these restrictions, allowing you to be better prepared for your recovery. Guidelines on when you can return to normal activities will largely be based on your post-operative follow-up appointments.
At these visits, your LASIK surgeon will examine your eyes, ask about any symptoms you may be experiencing, and assess your visual acuity to make personalized recommendations about the recovery timeline that is best for you.
Do you want to learn more about how you can prepare for LASIK? Schedule an appointment at Cheema MD Eye Care in Kingston, NY, today!
