What should I expect during my Lasik consultation?

If you are considering laser eye surgery, you probably have heard about the risks involved. Many prospective patients ask us about what to expect during their surgery and if there will be any side effects afterward. There are several things you should know before undergoing this procedure. These may seem like common sense, but they are important to mention beforehand so you feel prepared for your procedure. The more informed you are before your appointment, the smoother the whole process will go. If you follow these pointers, there’ll be few surprises when the time comes for your surgery. Here are some things worth knowing about before your Lasik consultation begins:

What is Lasik surgery?

Lasik surgery, also known as laser vision correction, is a procedure that corrects vision by changing or reshaping the front surface of your eye. By altering the shape of the cornea, the procedure improves the way light enters your eye and focuses on the retina at the back of the eye.Lasik surgery works by using a laser to create tiny, microscopic “wounds” on the surface of the cornea.Over time, these wounds heal and reshape the cornea to provide clearer vision.The procedure has been performed for over 30 years with excellent results. About 90% of patients who undergo Lasik surgery experience 20/20 or better vision after one year.

What is the procedure like?

The Lasik procedure is performed by a surgeon who makes a small incision in your eye and uses a laser to reshape the cornea. The procedure lasts about 10-15 minutes and can be performed in a doctor’s office or surgery center. There is no need to lie completely still during the surgery; you may be asked to blink a few times to keep the cornea wet.You will be given eye drops to numb your eyes before the procedure begins.Once the Lasik surgery begins, the surgeon will place a protective covering over your eye to protect it from stray light.You will likely be awake during the procedure, but it is not a painful one. You may be given a mild anesthetic before the procedure begins to ensure your comfort.There is no downtime after a Lasik surgery; you can usually return to work right away.

What is the recovery like?

Most patients can expect to experience some pain and redness during the first few days after surgery. You will likely experience some light sensitivity and floaters for a few weeks after your Lasik procedure.You will need to follow a special diet and take special care of your eyes during the first few weeks after surgery.Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions regarding your recovery.Most patients start to see significant improvements within a few weeks after surgery. It is important to allow your vision to adjust to the changes before making any decisions regarding your next career move.

Side effects of Lasik surgery?

Because this surgery changes the shape of your eye, some patients report dryness, light sensitivity, and headaches. These side effects generally subside within a few weeks after surgery.Some patients experience cloudy vision at first, but this usually resolves within a few weeks. You can help speed your visual recovery by wearing dark goggles.There is a low risk of infection after surgery, but it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and report any signs of redness or other problems.

When it is recommended?

If you are over the age of 18 and you experience poor vision, eye disease, or other conditions that prevent you from seeing clearly, then Lasik surgery might be right for you. You should only consider undergoing the procedure if you are healthy and happy with your vision.You should never undergo Lasik surgery if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a family in the near future.It is also important to keep in mind that the surgery can cause permanent changes to your vision.

When not recommended?

If you have astigmatism, you should not undergo Lasik surgery. This condition, which is common, causes blurred vision due to the way light enters the eye.When the cornea is reshaped during the surgery, the condition can worsen.If you have dry eyes, a Lasik procedure might be right for you. If you have dry eyes, the surgery can temporarily improve your vision.If you have had a previous eye surgery, you should not undergo Lasik surgery for at least 12 months.If you have a history of eye infections or have a family history of eye disease, you should not undergo Lasik surgery. These conditions make you more susceptible to problems during and after the procedure.

Bottom line

Lasik is an effective, long-lasting, and safe vision-correcting surgery. Before undergoing the procedure, it is important to understand what to expect and what potential side effects may occur.The best way to prepare for your Lasik surgery is by researching the procedure and possible risks involved.

Frequently Asked Question

How do you wash your hair after LASIK?

For the first 3 days post op, I recommend turining your back to the shower and washing your hair such that the shampoo washes down your back, rather than across your face. This helps to avoid irritants(like Shampoo) from getting into your eyes.

What happens if you don't wear sunglasses after LA

As you continue to heal from your LASIK procedure it is recommended that you wear high-quality sunglasses anytime you are outdoors, even on a cloudy day. If your eyes are exposed to UV rays without protection shortly after the surgery, your eyes may suffer from corneal haze which means a hazy or foggy view.

Is it true that LASIK flap never heals?

Once the surgery is over, the flap is laid back into place to heal on its own. Some people believe that the flap never actually heals. However, this is not true. The flap starts to heal within one day of having the surgery.

Can you wear contacts 10 years after LASIK?

The bottom line is that YES, you can wear contact lenses after LASIK if you choose to. And there are a few occasions where you might chose to do so. I thought I'd dedicate this post to discussing these occasions. Historically, the average age of a LASIK patient is around 40 years old.