The number of LASIK eye surgery patients by the year 2020 is projected to be around 718,000. As the popularity of this type of refractive surgery grows, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with the procedure. Today, Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry talks about how you can prepare for LASIK and what to expect during and after the surgery.
Preoperative Care
The basic principle of LASIK is to reshape your cornea for better vision. Since contact lenses tend to alter the shape and condition of your cornea, our eye doctor will ask you to refrain from wearing them two weeks before the surgery. If you’re using soft contact lenses, you’ll only need to stop wearing them at least a week before your scheduled operation. You may use your eyeglasses for the meantime.
Do not put any product, may it be creams or moisturizers, on your eyes the night before or on the day of your operation. Wear comfortable clothing, and secure a ride going to and coming from the clinic as your optometrist will not allow you to drive after LASIK. You may eat and drink as usual, but under no circumstances should you drink alcohol or take drowse-inducing medication prior to the operation.
The Procedure
While LASIK is a knife-less and painless refractive surgery, numbing eye drops will be applied to prevent any discomfort. Your eyes will be placed under the laser and will be held open by a lid speculum while a suction is placed on the surface of your eye to prevent disruptive movements. You will be asked to focus at the target light as the operation is underway. You may block out the slight pressure you might feel by focusing on the steady, clicking sounds coming from the laser. The entire procedure will not last beyond 20 minutes.
Life After LASIK
You can expect your vision to improve as early as the day after your operation. You have to come back to the clinic the next day to ensure your vision meets the legal standards for driving. Your optometrist will also give you additional eye care instructions during the workup. Avoid rubbing your eyes, and refrain from engaging in contact sports for at least a month after the operation.
Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry offers excellent, personalized and comprehensive eye care services. You may call us at (703) 660-9494 (Alexandria), (703) 413-1400 (Crystal City), (703) 573-1200 (Falls Church) and (703) 467-9080 (Reston).