What will you experience the day of surgery?
After checking in at the front desk an Ophthalmic technician will take you to the exam room. At this time you have the option to take a mild anti-anxiety medication by mouth. The doctor may or may not recheck your vision or measurements. When the laser is ready you will be escorted to the Laser room down the hall. You will sit on a chair which will be reclined steeply. The a laser technician will place an "eye drop" anesthesia to completely numb your eye.
An eyelid holder will be placed between your eyelids to prevent you from blinking. Next, an instrument known as a microkeratome makes a flap in the cornea. During this process you may feel a little pressure, this is normal. After a short break you will be asked to look directly at a target light while the laser reshapes the cornea, don’t be surprised if the blinking red light is blurry, your surgeon will reconfirm your fixation. The actual lasering of the cornea is usually less than one minute. Then, the protective flap is folded back in place. For approximately 2-3 minutes your surgeon will ask you to look at the target light while the cornea bonds securely without the need for sutures. If both eyes are scheduled the process is repeated.
Your surgeon will meet you back in the exam room for a final check on the cornea. He will answer all of your questions and the technician will review your post operative instructions. The protective eye shields are placed and you can now return home. It is preferred that you rest your eyes by either sleeping or resting with the eyes closed. After LASIK, some patients report a slight discomfort that usually begins approximately 15 minutes after the procedure and usually goes away within twelve hours.
What to Expect After Surgery
- Your doctor will want you to come in for an exam one day after surgery, and for regular follow-up exams for about 6 months.
- You will need to wear an eye shield for the first 24 hours after surgery and while sleeping for the first week.
- Your vision may be hazy or blurry for a few days after surgery (up to about a week). You should plan on taking a few days off from work. Do not drive until your vision has cleared. If you need to travel by car, have another person drive for you.
- Your doctor will prescribe eye drops to reduce inflammation and the risk of infection. Usually these drops are used four times a day for one week.
- You should avoid vigorous sports, eye makeup, and activities that get water in the eye. For specific situations you should ask your doctor. Avoid showering for 24 hours after the surgery.
- Dry eye symptoms are common but are usually temporary. You will be given artificial tears to help with these symptoms. They can be used as frequently as every hour.
