How to Prepare for LASIK Surgery: Step-by-Step

LASIK surgery offers a way to correct vision issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Proper preparation is essential for the best results. Here’s a quick summary of what you need to know:

• Pre-Surgery Steps:
  • Stop wearing contact lenses before your consultation (2-4 weeks depending on the lens type).
  • Share your medical history, including medications and supplements, with your doctor.
  • Avoid eye makeup, lotions, or creams at least 24-48 hours before surgery.
  • Arrange for transportation as you cannot drive after the procedure.
• Surgery Day:
  • The procedure takes about 15-20 minutes per eye.
  • You’ll remain awake, with numbing drops ensuring comfort.
  • A corneal flap is created, reshaped with a laser, and repositioned without stitches.
• Recovery Tips:
  • Use prescribed eye drops and avoid rubbing your eyes.
  • Wear protective eye shields while sleeping.
  • Expect temporary side effects like dry eyes or light sensitivity.

LASIK can deliver life-changing results with over 90% of patients achieving 20/20 vision or better. Following these preparation and recovery steps helps ensure a smooth experience.

5 Critical Precautions to Take Before LASIK Surgery

Learn About LASIK and Your Treatment Options

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) uses lasers to reshape the cornea and improve vision. Over 90% of patients achieve 20/20 vision, with nearly all reaching 20/40 or better. Plus, 96% of people report satisfaction with the results. Let’s explore the specific procedures offered at Panorama LASIK.

LASIK and Vision Correction Procedures

At Panorama LASIK, with over 100,000 refractive surgeries under their belt, several advanced techniques are available:

• Contoura LASIK: Uses a detailed map of your eye’s unique features to deliver vision that can exceed 20/20.
• SMILE ReLEx: A minimally invasive option requiring only a small incision, allowing for quicker recovery.
• Traditional LASIK: A trusted method for addressing nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
• EVO ICL: An implantable lens for correcting myopia and astigmatism, ideal for those who aren’t candidates for corneal reshaping. It’s reversible and preserves the corneal tissue.
• PRK: A great choice for individuals with thinner or irregular corneas. While recovery may take longer, the results are comparable to LASIK.
• Refractive Lens Exchange: Designed for severe farsightedness or age-related presbyopia, this replaces the natural lens with an artificial one.

Panorama LASIK also uses Wavescan 3D mapping technology to create a precise, customized treatment plan tailored to your unique vision needs. Let’s dive into what happens during the LASIK procedure.

What Happens During Your LASIK Procedure

Your LASIK journey begins with the creation of a thin corneal flap. Using either a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser, your surgeon carefully lifts this flap to access the underlying cornea.

The next step is the corneal reshaping phase. Here, an excimer laser removes tiny amounts of corneal tissue based on your prescription and measurements. For nearsightedness, the laser flattens the cornea’s center; for farsightedness, it steepens the cornea; and for astigmatism, it smooths out irregularities.

Finally, the surgeon repositions the corneal flap back into place. The flap naturally adheres without the need for stitches, serving as a protective barrier to aid healing and comfort.

The entire procedure typically takes 15-20 minutes per eye, with most of the time spent on preparation and positioning. The actual laser treatment itself usually lasts less than a minute per eye. You’ll remain awake throughout, with numbing drops ensuring you feel comfortable. During the flap creation, you might feel slight pressure but no pain.

Your surgeon will walk you through each step, ensuring you feel informed and at ease. Clear communication helps you stay relaxed and cooperative, which can contribute to the best possible results. Knowing these steps will also help you prepare for your surgery with confidence.

Pre-Surgery Consultation and Eye Evaluation

The pre-surgery consultation is all about determining if LASIK is right for you and crafting a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs.

Complete Eye Exam and Medical History

This initial consultation involves a detailed eye exam to confirm your suitability for LASIK surgery. During the exam, your eye health is thoroughly assessed. This includes checking your tear film, corneas, lenses, retinas, and optic nerves for any issues that might rule out LASIK. Your pupil size is also measured in low-light conditions to assess how it might affect your nighttime vision, and corneal topography is used to evaluate your eligibility for refractive surgery.

Providing a detailed medical history is crucial for ensuring the procedure’s safety and success. Be prepared to list all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter ones, as some can influence LASIK outcomes. For example, medications like Imitrex may interfere with corneal healing, while Accutane can exacerbate dryness on the eye’s surface. If you’ve had any prior eye surgeries, such as strabismus correction, or if there’s a family history of conditions like keratoconus, make sure to share that information. Systemic health issues like diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or a history of keloids can also impact healing and should be discussed.

Don’t forget to bring sunglasses to your appointment, as your eyes may be sensitive to light after dilation. Staying hydrated in the days before your consultation can also help optimize your eye health. Lastly, you’ll need to adjust your contact lens habits to ensure accurate measurements.

Stop Wearing Contact Lenses

For precise corneal mapping, you’ll need to stop wearing contact lenses before your evaluation. Contacts can temporarily alter the shape of your cornea, which could skew the measurements critical for surgical planning.

"Prior to a LASIK consultation and surgery, it is vital that contact lenses not be worn for a certain period of time. This is because contact lenses can alter the shape of the cornea."

• Pacific Eye Institute

Even perfectly fitted lenses can cause swelling or dryness that impacts the cornea’s shape, leading to inaccurate test results.

The amount of time you’ll need to avoid wearing contacts depends on the type you use:

During this time, you’ll need to rely on glasses exclusively.

Your Personal Treatment Plan

After your evaluation, your surgeon will design a personalized surgical plan based on factors like corneal thickness, pupil size, prescription strength, and overall eye health. This plan will help determine the best procedure for your specific situation. Your surgeon will also walk you through what to expect during the surgery itself and the recovery process. This thorough preparation ensures everything is set for a smooth procedure and recovery.

sbb-itb-7a0c837

Pre-Surgery Instructions and Preparation Steps

Preparing for LASIK involves taking care of both your physical and mental well-being. Here’s how to get ready for your procedure with proper cleaning, medication review, and mental preparation.

Avoid Eye Products and Follow Cleaning Instructions

To minimize the risk of infection, keep your eyes free of products. Stop using eye makeup, lotions, or creams around your eyes at least 24 hours before your surgery – some surgeons may even recommend stopping two days prior for added safety. Make sure your eyelids and lashes are clean and free of oils. You can gently scrub your eyelids and lashes with a warm washcloth, paying extra attention if your eyes feel sticky or matted in the morning.

The day before surgery, wash your face, eyes, and hair thoroughly. Avoid using any scented products to maintain a sterile environment.

Review Your Medications and Supplements

Go over your medications and supplements carefully, as discussed during your consultation. Some medications can interfere with LASIK by affecting your eyes, interacting with anesthesia, or slowing the healing process. Blood thinners and NSAIDs are particularly concerning because they increase bleeding risks. Hormonal medications might affect corneal thickness and tear production, while antidepressants, allergy medications, and even high caffeine intake could lead to dryness after the procedure.

Supplements can also play a role. High doses of vitamin E or omega-3 fatty acids may thin the blood. For example, Ginkgo Biloba has blood-thinning effects that are three times stronger than vitamin E. Additionally, around 180 dietary supplements interact with warfarin, and over 120 can interfere with aspirin and similar medications. It’s generally recommended to stop taking herbal supplements at least two weeks before surgery.

Be open with your surgeon about everything you’re taking – medications, supplements, or even herbal remedies – so they can create a tailored plan for you. A low-sodium diet before and after surgery may also be helpful.

Prepare Mentally for Your Surgery

Mental preparation is just as important as physical readiness. Understanding the procedure and knowing what to expect can help ease anxiety. For reassurance, consider this: LASIK boasts a 96% patient satisfaction rate and a 99% success rate for achieving 20/40 vision or better.

Stress management techniques, like deep breathing or meditation, can be incredibly helpful. Practicing these regularly makes them more effective when you need them most. Visualizing life after LASIK – whether it’s enjoying sports, swimming, or simply waking up without glasses – can also boost your confidence.

Prepare a list of any questions or concerns to discuss with your surgeon. Open communication can ease your nerves and ensure you feel informed. If you think it might help, talk to your surgeon about anti-anxiety medication options. Additionally, having a friend or family member accompany you on surgery day can provide both emotional support and transportation.

Finally, engage in calming activities like listening to music, taking a walk, or spending time outdoors. These can help lift your mood and reduce any lingering stress.

Surgery Day Planning and Recovery Preparation

After preparing for your LASIK procedure, it’s time to focus on the details of surgery day and getting ready for recovery. Proper planning can make the transition smoother and more manageable. Here’s what you need to know:

Arrange a Ride Home

Driving yourself home after LASIK isn’t an option . The combination of anesthesia, temporary vision blurriness, and sedatives makes it unsafe to operate a vehicle. Make arrangements with a trusted friend or family member to drive you to and from your appointment. Double-check the details a few days before surgery to ensure your driver knows the time and location.

Set Up Help at Home

Having support at home can make a big difference in your recovery, especially during the first day or two when your vision may be blurry and your eyes sensitive to light. Consider these tips to prepare:

• Meals and essentials: If you live alone, stock up on easy-to-make meals and disposable dishware to minimize effort.
• Entertainment: Choose activities that don’t strain your eyes, like listening to podcasts, music, or audiobooks. If you need to use your phone, enlarge the text and lower the brightness to reduce strain.
• Pet care: Arrange for someone to help with feeding and walking your pets during the initial recovery phase.
• Day-of prep: Shower and wash your hair the morning of your surgery, and wear soft, comfortable clothing for rest afterward.
• Recovery supplies: Keep prescribed eye drops chilled for a soothing effect, have a lightweight cold compress ready (if approved by your surgeon), and stock acetaminophen in case you need additional pain relief.

These small steps can make your recovery more comfortable and stress-free.

Know What to Expect During Recovery

In the first 24–48 hours, you might experience blurred vision, light sensitivity, and some mild discomfort. Over the following days and weeks, your vision should steadily improve. To support healing:

• Use prescribed eye drops as directed.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes.
• Wear protective eye shields while sleeping.

Temporary side effects, like dry eyes, halos around lights, or slight vision fluctuations, are common and typically improve as your eyes heal. Make sure to attend all follow-up appointments and contact your surgeon immediately if you notice severe pain, sudden vision changes, or signs of infection.

Key Points for LASIK Preparation

Getting ready for LASIK is just as important as the procedure itself. The Eye Center of Texas highlights that "LASIK eye surgery has transformed the lives of millions by offering a long-term solution for vision correction. However, like any medical procedure, preparing for LASIK is paramount for achieving the best results." Below are the essential steps to help you prepare effectively.

• Pause Contact Lens Use: Stop wearing your contact lenses as instructed beforehand. This ensures accurate corneal measurements, which are crucial for the procedure.
• Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Quit smoking at least two weeks before your surgery. Prioritize good sleep and eat nutrient-rich foods, especially those high in vitamins, to support your body’s healing process.
• Avoid Certain Products: On the day of the surgery, skip makeup, perfumes, and lotions. This helps maintain a clean and sterile environment during the procedure.
• Communicate Your Medical History: Be upfront with your surgeon about your full medical history, including any medications, supplements, or past surgeries. This information helps them create a customized plan for you.
• Plan for Post-Surgery Support: Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. Additionally, consider having a friend or family member assist with daily tasks during the initial recovery period.

Lastly, preparation isn’t just physical – it’s mental too. Take time to understand the procedure, know what recovery will involve, and set realistic expectations for the results. This comprehensive approach can make your LASIK journey much smoother.

FAQs

What kind of vision changes and recovery time should I expect after LASIK surgery?

Most people start to see better within a few hours to a few days after having LASIK surgery. While your vision may improve significantly within the first month or two, reaching completely stable vision usually takes around 3 to 6 months. During this healing period, it’s common to notice minor changes, such as dry eyes, halos, or glare, particularly at night.

As your eyes continue to recover, your vision will gradually sharpen. By the time you hit the six-month mark, most individuals enjoy clear and stable eyesight. To ensure everything goes smoothly, stick to your surgeon’s post-op care instructions and make it to all your follow-up appointments.

Am I a good candidate for LASIK surgery, or should I consider another procedure?

Determining whether LASIK is the right choice for you involves considering a few key factors. Typically, candidates need to be at least 18 years old, have healthy eyes, a stable vision prescription, and no medical conditions – such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders – that could interfere with the healing process. Your eye doctor will evaluate these aspects during your consultation.

If LASIK isn’t a match for you, don’t worry – there are alternative procedures available. For instance, Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA) might be an option for those with thinner corneas or certain health concerns. Your surgeon will help identify the safest and most effective approach to meet your vision correction needs.

What should I do to prepare for LASIK surgery in the weeks before my procedure?

To get ready for LASIK surgery, there are a few important steps to follow. First, stop wearing contact lenses at least two weeks before your procedure – they can temporarily alter the shape of your cornea, which might affect the results. Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, as this can aid in the healing process. On the day of your surgery, skip makeup, lotions, and perfumes, as these can interfere with the procedure. It’s also crucial to follow all the pre-operative instructions your surgeon provides and arrange for someone to drive you home afterward. Taking these precautions will help set you up for a smooth experience and a better recovery.

Related posts

• Top 7 Questions About Vision Correction Surgery