Preparing for Traditional Lasik Surgery What to Expect

1. Preparing for Traditional Lasik Surgery: What to Expect Traditional LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular surgical procedure used to correct refractive errors in the eye, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure involves the use of a laser to reshape the cornea, thereby improving vision. If you are considering traditional LASIK surgery, it is essential to prepare for the procedure both physically and mentally. In this article, we will discuss what to expect when preparing for traditional LASIK surgery. Consultation with Your Eye Doctor: The first step in preparing for traditional LASIK surgery is to schedule a consultation with your eye doctor. During this consultation, your doctor will perform a comprehensive eye exam to assess your eligibility for the procedure. They will also discuss your medical history and any medications you are currently taking to ensure that you are healthy enough for the surgery. Your doctor will also discuss the potential risks and benefits of traditional LASIK surgery and answer any questions you may have about the procedure. They may also provide you with information about the different types of LASIK surgery available and recommend the best option for your specific needs. Preparing for the Procedure: Once you have decided to undergo traditional LASIK surgery, your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. Some of the things you can expect when preparing for traditional LASIK surgery include: Stop Wearing Contact Lenses: Your doctor may ask you to stop wearing contact lenses for a period of time before the procedure. This is because contact lenses can alter the shape of the cornea, which can affect the accuracy of the surgery. Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how long you need to stop wearing contact lenses before the surgery. Arrange for Transportation: You will need to arrange for transportation to and from the surgical center on the day of the procedure. This is because your vision may be temporarily impaired immediately following the surgery, and it may not be safe for you to drive. Avoid Certain Medications: Your doctor may ask you to avoid certain medications before the procedure, such as blood thinners or medications that can affect your immune system. This is to reduce the risk of bleeding and infection during the surgery.

2. Fast Before the Procedure: You may be asked to fast for a period of time before the procedure. This is because the surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, and fasting can reduce the risk of nausea and vomiting during the procedure. Wear Comfortable Clothing: You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing on the day of the procedure. This is to ensure that you are comfortable during the surgery and that you can relax afterward. The Day of the Procedure: On the day of the procedure, you should arrive at the surgical center on time and follow the instructions provided by your doctor. Some of the things you can expect on the day of the procedure include: Numbing Drops: Your doctor will administer numbing drops to your eyes to ensure that you do not feel any pain during the surgery. You may also be given a sedative to help you relax. The Procedure: The procedure itself usually takes less than 30 minutes to complete. During the surgery, you will be asked to look at a light while the laser reshapes the cornea. You may feel some pressure or discomfort during the procedure, but you should not feel any pain. Recovery: After the procedure, you will need to rest for a period of time before you can leave the surgical center. Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your eyes after the surgery, such as using eye drops to reduce inflammation and wearing a protective shield over your eyes while you sleep. Conclusion: In conclusion, traditional LASIK surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can provide long-term improvements in vision. However, preparing for the surgery is an important step that can help ensure a successful outcome. By following your doctor's instructions, avoiding certain medications, arranging for transportation, and wearing comfortable clothing, you can prepare for the procedure both physically and mentally. On the day of the procedure, it is important to arrive on time and follow the instructions provided by your doctor. You can expect to receive numbing drops to your eyes and a sedative to help you relax during the

3. procedure. The surgery itself is typically quick and painless, and you should be able to go home shortly after the procedure. In the days and weeks following the surgery, you will need to take care of your eyes by using eye drops and wearing a protective shield over your eyes while you sleep. Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your eyes during the recovery period. It is important to follow these instructions closely to ensure a successful recovery.