Laser Eye Surgery – What to Expect Before, During, and After the Procedure
If your dream is to wake up every morning and see the world clearly without reaching for your glasses or fumbling for your contacts, laser eye surgery might just be the perfect solution for you. With the ability to painlessly correct a wide range of refractive issues, laser eye surgery is a popular vision correction treatment used all around the world. If you’re considering this procedure, it’s important to understand what to expect before, during, and after the surgery as this can help alleviate any apprehensions and ensure the best possible outcome and experience.
Before Surgery
Before undergoing laser eye surgery, there are several important steps to take during the preparation phase.
The journey typically begins with a consultation with your trusted ophthalmologist. During this appointment, your eyes will be thoroughly examined to determine your candidacy for the procedure.
If you wear contact lenses, you may be advised to stop wearing them for a certain period, typically a few days, to ensure accurate measurements of your cornea.
There are several types of laser eye surgery, including PRK, SILK, and LASIK. Your suitability for any procedure may depend on a variety of factors including:
- The thickness of your corneal tissue
- Your age
- Your current prescription
- Any pre-existing vision problems
- Any other conditions that may hinder your healing process such as diabetes, or conditions involving hormonal changes such as pregnancy
Your surgeon will also ask about your hobbies and occupation. Understanding your lifestyle can also help guide the decision about which method of laser eye surgery would be the safest and most effective for you.
Prior to the procedure, you will be given some pre-operative instructions, such as avoiding certain medications or makeup in the lead up to and on the day of the procedure. It’s essential that you follow the instructions carefully.
During Laser Eye Surgery
Most laser eye surgeries are performed under local anaesthesia, meaning you’ll be awake but your eye(s) will be numbed with eye drops to prevent discomfort.
The specifics of the procedure will depend on the type of surgery chosen. In LASIK, a thin flap is created on the surface of the cornea, allowing the surgeon to reshape the underlying tissue with a laser. In PRK, the outer layer of the cornea is gently removed before the laser treatment. With SiLK, keyhole procedure using laser to correct the vision. Regardless of which type of surgery you have, the entire process typically takes only 20 mins for both eyes.
Post-Operative Care
After undergoing laser eye surgery, it is vital to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by your eye doctor. The recovery period plays a significant role in determining the success of the procedure and your overall vision outcomes.
During the initial days following your surgery, it is common to experience some discomfort, such as dry eyes or mild irritation. These symptoms typically subside as the eyes heal. It is essential to avoid rubbing your eyes and follow any prescribed medication regimen diligently.
Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure that your eyes are healing correctly. It is normal for vision fluctuations to occur during the recovery period, with optimal results becoming more apparent in the weeks following the surgery.
For many people, laser eye surgery can be a life-changing experience, offering the convenience of 20/20 vision and freeing them from the hassle of glasses or contact lenses. By understanding what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, you can approach your journey with confidence and look forward to seeing the world in a whole new light.
If you’re considering laser eye surgery, book a consultation with NewVision Clinics today. We pride ourselves on combining the latest in laser eye surgery techniques with very high standards of patient care. To determine the best option for your vision needs, book a consultation online now or call 1800 20 20 20.