If you have made the decision to have LASIK surgery, or the newer option of LASEK surgery, you should always make sure to read as much information as you can on the procedures. Generally most eye doctors are recommending LASEK over the more traditional LASIK since it is less invasive and has a very low risk of any type of complications.
Both procedures are done on an outpatient basis and, for most patients, local anesthesia in the form of eye drops is all that is needed. However, for some people that are very anxious or that have concerns about being awake during the procedure general sedation may be used. Typically doctors prefer the patient to awake during the procedure which is very short, usually about 10 minutes, and virtually pain free.
Meet with the Doctor
Prior to LASIK surgery you will meet with your doctor, usually a few weeks in advance of the procedure. At this meeting your eye doctor will carefully examine your eyes and talk to you about what to expect during the procedure and how to care for your eye or eyes during recovery.
Typically if you currently wear contacts you will be asked to keep them out of your eyes for several days prior to LASIK surgery. For those that wear rigid gas permeable contacts you may be asked to avoid wearing your contacts for up to three weeks prior to the surgery.
You should also discuss with your doctor any prescription or over the counter medications you are taking as you may be asked to avoid using these medications on the day of the procedure. Most medications are not a problem but just double check with your eye doctor to be safe.
On the Day of LASIK Surgery
On the day of your LASIK surgery follow all instructions provided by your doctor and, unless you are having general anesthesia, eat and drink normally or as recommended. Women should not wear any type of eye makeup and both men and women should avoid using any type of creams, lotions or colognes, especially around the face and eye area.
You will need to have someone drive you after the procedure as you will have some degree of blurred vision and perhaps an itchy or watery eye or eyes. While you will be able to see even immediately after the LASIK surgery you may be asked to wear a patch or a protective contact lens to allow your eye to fully heal.
