Lasik surgery is a life-changing decision. For those who have lived their entire lives with impaired vision, the procedure gives some their first chance to see clearly without the help of additional lenses. That being said, medical procedures are frightening for many patients. There’s a level of uncertainty that can never be fully assuaged, but information and preparation can help patients feel more control over the situation. The day of your Lasik procedure can be stressful. But with the right information, you can go in confidence.
If you’re reading this, then you may have already gone through the preliminary steps. You’ve had an initial consultation, followed by an evaluation after not using contacts for 2-4 weeks, depending on lens type. Your surgeon may have already described the physical steps of the procedure and the most common symptoms. However, knowing the steps your surgeon undergoes may not answer all the questions you have about what the experience will be like for you. With that in mind, here are our top five tips for getting through the day of your Lasik procedure.
Be Patient
The procedure takes less than 30 minutes. According to the United States Food and Drug Administration, your eye surgeon will start by applying numbing drops to your eyes and attaching an apparatus to hold your eyelids open. Feeling some pressure and discomfort throughout the procedure is normal. You may also notice that your vision appears dimmed or blurred at certain points. This is also normal.
Stay Calm
Before using the laser, your surgeon will ask you to focus your gaze on a light. This will help to hold your eyes in the correct position, so it is important that you don’t move. Just stay calm and look at the light. Once the surgery is complete, you will be given a protective shield to prevent you from touching your eyes during the healing process. You will have to wear it at night for four weeks.
Have a Ride Prepared
Blade-free Lasik is a major improvement from more conventional methods. You will be able to open and close your eyes normally immediately after surgery; however, your vision will be blurry for at least a few hours. Between the blurred vision and the medication used to relax you for the procedure, you will not be able to drive yourself home safely. Ensure that you have a reliable ride to and from the surgery site. If any other driving is required that day, make sure you have someone prepared to do that as well.
Take a Few Days Off
After the surgery is completed, you will most likely experience some discomfort. Most patients describe an itching or burning sensation. Lacrimation is common, and some patients may experience mild to moderate pain. Talk to your doctor ahead of time about what pain medications you should have on hand, just in case. These symptoms will last to some degree for a couple of days, and you will need to attend a follow-up appointment with your surgeon a day or two after the procedure to ensure all is well. For your comfort, it is best to just take 2-3 days off of work, if possible.
Get Some Rest
Your eyes will be tired after surgery. Once you’re home, put in some earbuds and listen to music or an audiobook for two to four hours with your eyes closed. This will give your eyes the opportunity to rest, which is essential for your recovery. Make sure you’re wearing the protective shield, and don’t hesitate to fall asleep if you feel the urge. Rest will give your body the time and energy it needs to focus on healing.
Ask Questions
At Advanced Eye Medical, Dr. Ghosheh works to make sure patients are informed and comfortable during the entirety of the procedure. However, if you were feeling uncertain about certain aspects on the day of your Lasik procedure, then hopefully this short guide is helpful. If you have any other questions or concerns, feel free to contact the staff at Advanced Eye Medical to make sure you have the most comfortable experience possible.