What to Expect the Day of Your LASIK Surgery
Let’s face it. Though you’re likely looking forward to the improved vision you’ll experience after your LASIK surgery, the idea of the procedure may leave you uneasy.
Surgery of any kind can be frightening, but knowing what to do and expect on the day of your procedure, and directly after, can help alleviate some of your anxiety.
What to Expect the Day of Your LASIK Surgery
We’ve compiled a list of five tips to help you prepare for surgery and hopefully feel more at ease.
LASIK Pre-Surgery To-Do List
Add the following to your pre-surgery to-do list for a successful laser vision correction surgery experience:
#1 – Avoid Makeup or Lotions
We understand you may want to look and smell your best.
However, residue and debris can cause irritation and complications.
Please make sure your eyes are free of all makeup, lotions, or creams.
#2 – Arrange Transportation
Plan to have a driver for the ride home.
You may feel great after surgery but the medication, or the procedure itself, could cause drowsiness and blurry vision.
Other Helpful Day of Surgery Tips
Wondering exactly what your laser vision correction will be like? Watch a video of a procedure performed by The Eye Center’s Dr. Walter J. Hubickey here.
#3 – Surgery will be brief
Your surgeon will typically spend 10 minutes per eye.
Eye drops are used to numb the eyes and a device will be used to keep your eyelids open.
Don’t worry though. The doctor will make sure you are as comfortable as possible.
The doctor will then perform the procedure that was previously decided to be best for you.
Whether it’s LASIK, LASEK, or PRK, the common thread among all procedures is that an excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea allowing you to have clearer vision.
You will feel slight pressure but the surgery is painless due to the numbing eye drops.
#4 – You May Experience Sensitive Eyes
The surgery will cause temporary sensitivity to light and touch.
Protection for your eyes in the form of an eye shield or sunglasses will be provided to prevent direct exposure to light and to ensure timely healing.
Do not rub or touch your eyes until they are healed.
#5 – Your Recovery Time
You will generally see your doctor 2-3 days after surgery for a check-up, but if you experience pain or your vision worsens contact your doctor immediately.
Avoid contact sports, swimming, and hot tubs during recovery.
The ultimate goal is to make sure you protect your eyes from bumps, debris, and infection.
Following the advice above will help you reach that goal.
About The Eye Center
As with all of our appointment and procedures, we will strive to ensure your surgery goes smoothly and comfortably. If you have questions regarding the LASIK procedure or post-care please call The Eye Center, with locations in Huntsville and Madison, at 256-705-3937.