Eye laser surgery could change your life for the better in many ways, as there are many benefits to losing a dependency on spectacles and contact lenses. Despite the many positives, we advise people interested in treatment to avoid agreeing to an operation uninformed. It’s important to know more about what you can expect before and after consenting to eye procedures. While medical processes differ between each candidate, these general guidelines are an excellent starting point.
Before Any Laser Eye Surgery
The most important step in your process should be to arrange an initial evaluation with your ocular doctor. This assessment determines whether or not you’re a good candidate for Lasik eye procedures. It’s also your first opportunity to ask an ophthalmologist any questions you may have about the benefits and risks.
In preparation for this exam, you’ll need to:
– Stop wearing contact lenses – These change the shape of your cornea, and doctors have to operate on its natural shape. Fear not, your eyes will be evaluated more than once before surgery to ensure accurate measurements are taken.
– Create a list of your medical history – It’s best to spend time recalling all your previous eye conditions or traumas. Your doctor also needs to know about the medication you’re taking, whether over-the-counter or prescribed, and any allergies you may have too.
The day before your laser eye surgery, you should avoid wearing any makeup, perfume, cream or lotion on your face. These products leave a residue on your lashes that increase your risk of procedural infection. Before the treatment, your doctor may also ask you to scrub the eyelid margin with some gentle soap to ensure they’re completely clean.
We advise all candidates to take some time before assenting to eye laser surgery and signing the required consent form.
After Lasik Eye Treatments
Following laser or cataract procedures, your eyes could feel irritated and sore. They may even itch and involuntarily tear, but any pain is easily managed with medication. We strongly advise you not to rub or scratch your lids while they’re still healing to prevent infection or additional damage.
Other post-op symptoms could include:
– Blurry vision
– Light sensitivity
– Red or bloodshot scleras
You’ll have to take some time off to allow your repaired eyes to adjust. It shouldn’t take more than a few days. However, recovery periods varying according to:
-The kind of procedure you had done
-How well you looked after your eyes before surgery
-Your body’s own restoration speed
You’re also cautioned against:
– Wearing contacts too soon
– Using makeup, creams and lotions near your eye for up to two weeks
– Enjoying swimming pools and hot tubs for at least a month or two
It’s advised that you check in at your selected laser eye centre regularly during the first six months following treatment. Your doctor needs to stay updated on your healing progress to ensure you receive the crystal clear vision you desire.