Before and After LASIK Eye Surgery – A Detailed Overview

Are you researching what happens before and after LASIK eye surgery because you’re curious about the steps involved and what life will be like after? At Best LASIK Surgeons, we understand that knowing exactly what to expect – from your initial consultation and the procedure itself, to what happens afterward – is key to feeling comfortable and confident. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive before and after LASIK eye surgery overview, so you can feel secure in taking this exciting step towards clearer vision.

What to Expect Before Your LASIK Consultation

Before you even schedule your LASIK eye surgery, you’ll likely have some questions. Here’s a general overview of what the initial steps involve:

1. Research and Initial Considerations.

The first step is to research LASIK and understand how it works, candidacy criteria, treatable refractive errors, and expected benefits. We have a Complete Patient Guide to LASIK Eye Surgery that offers detailed information on this.

2. Scheduling Your Consultation.

Once you feel ready, schedule a comprehensive consultation with a qualified LASIK surgeon near you. This crucial appointment allows the surgeon to evaluate your eye health, discuss your vision correction goals, and determine if LASIK is right for you.

3. Preoperative Evaluation.

During your consultation, your surgeon will conduct a thorough eye examination, measuring your corneal thickness, pupil size, and refractive error. They’ll also review your medical history to ensure that there’s nothing that will impede the LASIK treatment.

4. Types of LASIK.

Since there are different LASIK techniques, each procedure type will be explained to you and why one may be recommended to you over another.

5. Financing & Cost Breakdown.

If you’re a suitable candidate for LASIK, the cost of the surgery and financing options will be reviewed with you to make your LASIK treatment affordable.

Preparing For Your LASIK Eye Surgery

Once you’ve been approved for LASIK, there are specific steps you’ll need to take to prepare for your procedure; following these aids in the surgery’s success.

1. Stop Wearing Contact Lenses.

If you wear soft contact lenses, you’ll typically need to discontinue their use 1-3 weeks before surgery. For hard contact lenses, this period is usually 4-8 weeks. Specific guidelines will be given to you by your surgeon though.

2. Arrange for Transportation.

You won’t be able to drive yourself home after your LASIK eye surgery, so make sure to arrange for someone to drive you. It’s also a good idea to have someone stay with you for the first few hours after the procedure.

3. Plan for Time Off.

Most patients can return to work within 24-48 hours, but it’s wise to schedule a day or two of rest to allow your eyes to begin healing.

4. The Day Of LASIK Eye Surgery.

Don’t wear any eye makeup and avoid using creams or lotions around your eyes.

What to Expect Immediately After LASIK Surgery?

The LASIK eye surgery itself is remarkably fast and virtually painless, with the actual laser component only taking 20-120 seconds per eye. Here’s what you can expect after LASIK:

• Temporary Discomfort. It’s common to experience some mild discomfort, such as a gritty or burning sensation, or watery eyes. Over-the-counter pain relief can help you manage it.
• Blurry Vision. Your vision will be blurry immediately after the surgery, but this is normal and will gradually improve in the following days/weeks.
• Sensitivity to Light. You may be more sensitive to light than usual.

How to Take Care of Your Eyes After LASIK Surgery?

Beyond going to all follow-up appointments and following your recovery plan, you’ll want to take care of your eyes by:

1. No showering till given the green-light; avoid shampoo, swimming, hot tubs, and soap around the eyes.
2. Limit screen time in the first week; no screens in the first 1-2 days.
3. Avoid drinking alcohol in the first few weeks as this can slow healing.
4. Refrain from rubbing your eyes.
5. Avoid driving until your vision stabilizes.
6. Wait up to two weeks after surgery before applying lotions, creams, or eye makeup.
7. You’ll be given protective eye shields to wear; use them while sleeping and wear sunglasses if you go outside.

Your Clearer Future Starts Now. Find Your Expert LASIK Surgeon

Gaining a clear understanding of the before and after LASIK eye surgery process is the first step towards a brighter, sharper future. If you’re ready to explore how LASIK can change your life, connect with a top-rated LASIK surgeon near you, and schedule a consultation.