There are plenty of options that are out there if you’re looking to get the best eye care possible. One particular treatment solution has been growing in popularity over the years, allowing people to see clearly without the aid of corrective lenses. That treatment option is LASIK. Thanks to LASIK, people suffering from nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism no longer need glasses to see clearly.
With that said, there are a number of instructions that patients should follow before and after undergoing LASIK in order to ensure the best healing experience. Let’s focus on those pre-operative instructions right now.
About LASIK Surgery
First, let’s talk basics. LASIK surgery involves the careful reshaping of the cornea using a safe surgical laser. By reshaping the cornea, light will focus properly on the retina, the light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye.
Why the LASIK Pre-op Instructions are So Important
The healing process for LASIK really does start before the surgery is even performed. These pre-operative instructions are designed to promote a recovery period that is as free from complications as possible. By following pro-op instructions, you are making the entire process run smoother and safer.
Stop Wearing Contact Lenses Before Surgery
Since the LASIK procedure reshapes the cornea, it’s important that the cornea be in a natural state before the surgery is performed. Many people do not realize this, but wearing contact lenses will change the shape of the corneas.
Your eye surgeon will instruct you to stop wearing contact lenses for a few weeks before the surgical date. The time frame ranges from roughly two weeks for soft contact lenses to a month or more for hard contact lenses.
Avoid Smoking and Drinking to Enhance Recovery
Our ophthalmologists always stress that both tobacco products and alcoholic beverages will negatively affect your body’s ability to heal. By avoiding smoking and drinking, you will ensure that you are in the best possible state to achieve total wellness. You’ll also want to avoid smoking and drinking for the weeks after the surgery.
Things to Do In the Week Before LASIK Surgery
In the week before surgery, it’s important that you do whatever you can around your home so you have little to worry about in the days after the surgery. That means filling prescriptions, cleaning, doing laundry, and making sure you have groceries stocked. By doing all this, all you’ll have to focus on is healing.
In addition, we ask that patients arrange for transportation to and from the surgical suite for the day of the surgery, and that the patient have a loved one present with them in the first day or so after surgery in case any errands need to be run.
What to Do On the Day of Surgery
Before visiting the surgical suite, be sure to get a good night’s rest the evening before. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and do not bother to wear any jewelry or accessories. We also ask that patients not use any perfume, makeup, facial lotions, or facial creams in order to ensure a problem-free surgery and healing period.
Learn More About LASIK Surgery
For more information about LASIK surgery and how we can help you achieve the best possible vision and eye health, be sure to contact our Austin laser vision correction and eye care center today. Our entire team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best possible results.