Around 700,000 LASIK surgeries are performed annually. Will you be in this number this year?
It’s great that you’ve chosen to correct your vision once and for all, and now you’re asking yourself how to prepare for LASIK.
It can be scary to think about, someone operating on your eyes, but with this guide, we’ll reassure you that LASIK surgery is a very safe and common operation with a high rate of success.
You’ve made the right choice. Keep reading to find out more about preparing for your big day.
How to Prepare for LASIK Surgery
There are a few things your LASIK surgeon will advise that you do to prepare for surgery. These include the following:
Stop Wearing Contact Lenses
If you wear contact lenses, you’ll want to stop for at least two weeks before your surgery date.
Your corrective lenses alter the shape of your cornea, which might influence the outcome of your operation. Switch to glasses during this time.
Arrange for a Ride Home
You won’t be able to drive yourself home after the surgery because your vision will be blurry and you’ll be unable to see properly.
Arrange for someone to pick you up instead. Public transportation is not a good idea after surgery either.
Prepare Your House
You should do some simple things around your house to prepare for your post-operative recovery period.
For example, you might want to have someone bring in groceries for you or prepare easy-to-eat meals that don’t require a lot of cooking.
Shower on the Day of Surgery
It might not be convenient to shower after the surgery for a day or two, so it’s a good idea to shower right before your procedure.
You’ll want to avoid getting your eyes wet. In fact, the longer you can keep them closed just after your procedure, the better your recovery process will be.
Get Plenty of Rest
It’s important that you get plenty of rest before your surgery date so that you’re well-rested and relaxed.
Try to avoid stress as much as possible in the days leading up to your surgery.
Follow All Pre-Operative Instructions
Your eye doctor will give you specific instructions to follow in the days and weeks leading up to your surgery.
It’s important that you follow these instructions carefully to ensure a successful surgery.
For example, you will be instructed to avoid alcohol several days before your surgery. This will help to prevent dehydration of your eyes.
Stop Wearing Makeup
Avoid wearing makeup, eye lotions, and creams in the days leading up to your surgery. You also want to avoid hairspray and perfume on the days leading up to surgery as these contain alcohol.
No Wool Clothing
The lint can get into your eyes and cause irritation, so don’t wear wool to your surgery.
Relax and Trust Your Doctor
We know you’re nervous, but trust your doctor. They know what they’re doing and they’ve performed this surgery many times before.
What to Expect on the Day of Surgery
The surgery itself is very short, taking only around 15 minutes per eye.
You will be given an anesthetic to numb your eyes and keep you from feeling any pain. Once your eyes are numbed, the LASIK surgeon will create a small flap in your cornea using a laser.
The next step is to adjust the shape of your cornea using the same laser. This part of the surgery takes only a matter of seconds. Afterward, the flap is replaced and will start to heal immediately. You may feel some itchiness for a few hours after the surgery, but this is normal.
You will be given protection to help with the healing process and to prevent infection. Your eyes may be sensitive to light for a few days after surgery, so you should wear sunglasses when you go outside.
Recovery Time
Most people recover from LASIK surgery within a few days. However, it can take up to six months for your vision to stabilize.
During this time, you may experience some fluctuation in your vision as your eyes continue to heal.
It’s important to attend all of your follow-up appointments with your doctor so that they can monitor your progress and ensure that everything is healing properly.
How Long Does LASIK Last?
LASIK surgery is a permanent solution to your vision problems. However, it’s possible for your vision to change over time, especially if you have a condition like diabetes.
If your vision does change, you may need an additional procedure to correct it.
Risks and Complications
LASIK surgery is generally safe but there are always risks involved with any type of surgery.
The most common complication is dry eye syndrome, which affects around 5% of people who have LASIK surgery.
This can be a temporary or permanent condition and can cause a great deal of discomfort.
Other risks and complications include the following:
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Flap problems
- Glare, halos, and double vision
- Under – or over-correction of vision
- Vision that is worse than before surgery
Before you decide to have LASIK surgery, be sure to talk to your eye doctor about all of the risks and complications.
Book Your Consultation Today
If you’re considering LASIK surgery, the first step is to book a consultation with an experienced eye doctor.
At your consultation, we will perform a thorough examination of your eyes to ensure that you are a good candidate for surgery.
We will also answer any questions you have on how to prepare for LASIK surgery and the recovery process.
If you’re ready to improve your vision, contact us today to book your consultation!
