Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) involves reshaping the cornea with a focused beam of light to correct near-sightedness, far-sightedness, or an uneven eye curve (astigmatism).
Since LASIK eye surgery irreversibly alters the shape of the cornea, it aims to reduce patients’ reliance on glasses or contact lenses. As a result, the cornea can focus light into the retina, resulting in improved eyesight.
Here’s everything you need to know about preparatory steps before LASIK, what to expect during surgery, and recovery care.
What Happens Before Lasik Eye Surgery?
Our ophthalmologist at Novomed will consider your overall well-being, as it will play a significant role in your recovery process, in addition to running a series of diagnostic scans on your eyes to determine the following:
- Your cornea’s shape and thickness
- Pupil size
- Other vision problems present
- Dehydration level
How To Prepare For Lasik Eye Surgery?
Any surgery, despite how minor, can set one’s nerves on edge. Therefore, we’ve set the following preparatory guidelines to help ease your anxiety and undergo surgery comfortably.
- Refrain from using any alcohol-containing products such as hairspray, creme, colognes, or after-shave to reduce the risk of infection.
- Dress comfortably on the day of your surgery, and avoid wearing wool or fur clothing that may create lint in the surgical suite.
- There are no limitations on what you can eat or take before or after your operation; however, we advise you to discuss taking any medication with your doctor before surgery.
- You should avoid wearing eye makeup for at least 24 hours before and on the day of surgery; otherwise, your doctor may postpone the surgery for your safety.
- Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol the day before your laser surgery since it dehydrates eye tissues, which could prolong your recovery process
- Plan for transportation on the days of your procedure and follow-up visit, seeing as you won’t be able to drive.
You may need to schedule a couple of days off from work, depending on your profession
What To Expect During LASIK Surgery?
LASIK surgery takes roughly ten minutes per eye. Our board-certified surgeons perform the procedure using the most cutting-edge laser to ensure optimal safety and precision.
Your ophthalmologist will use anesthetic drops in your eyes to numb the cornea. Once you’re comfortable, the surgeon uses a lid speculum to hold your eyelids open, then builds a thin protective barrier over the cornea with a femtosecond laser to safely separate the corneal flap and reshape the corneal tissue.
Afterwards, your surgeon lays the flap back into place without stitches. You will be able to see clearly within a few hours of surgery, with most people regaining 20/20 vision approximately four to six weeks after surgery.
Recovery After LASIK Eye Surgery
You may experience slight discomfort following laser eye surgery, such as burning or itching sensation and light sensitivity. Bear in mind that your vision may become blurry or hazy and that it can take days or weeks for your vision to stabilize after LASIK. Thus, your doctor may prescribe some over-the-counter antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory eye drops to manage symptoms.
Avoid rubbing your eyes or the area around them, and make sure to wear protective eyeglasses recommended by your doctor to prevent irritating the eye tissues while sleeping.
Also, Ensure that you communicate any postoperative concerns to your surgeon during follow-up appointments to detect any complications at an early stage.
LASIK Eye Surgery is a quick and painless procedure that helps you part ways with glasses or contacts! Find out more about our ophthalmology department and check out our advanced vision treatments today.
