9 Ways to Prepare Before Laser Eye Surgery

Offered by our doctors at Clearview Vision Institute, LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) eye surgery is a popular and effective procedure. It is used for correcting vision problems or refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

After your LASIK eye surgeon has determined that you are a good candidate for the LASIK procedure and your surgery date is scheduled, you will need to know how to prepare properly ahead of time to ensure the best possible outcome.

In this article, we will discuss nine essential ways you should prepare for your LASIK eye surgery to ensure optimal success.

1. Discontinue wearing contact lenses

If you use contact lenses, you will need to stop wearing them for a period of time before your LASIK surgery. This is because contact lenses can alter the shape of your cornea, which could affect the accuracy of the measurements taken during the pre-surgery eye exam. Your LASIK provider will give you specific instructions on when to stop wearing your contacts.

2. Increase water intake in the days leading up to your procedure

It is important to drink more water in the days leading up to your LASIK eye surgery to promote sufficient healing after the procedure. Moreover, the extra hydration will also help with temporary dry eye, which tends to be a common side effect of LASIK. Try to aim for a minimum of eight eight-ounce glasses of water per day.

3. Avoid certain medications, alcohol, and smoking

Some medications can increase the risk of complications during or after LASIK surgery. It is important to discuss all of the medications you are taking with your LASIK provider, as they may recommend that you stop taking certain ones before the surgery. Additionally, it is strongly advised to avoid the consumption of any alcohol on the day of your surgery. Smokers should only smoke in a well-ventilated space to avoid smoke fumes that can irritate the eyes after surgery.

4. Arrange for transportation from your procedure

You will need someone to drive you home after your LASIK eye surgery, as you will not be able to drive yourself. This is why it’s important to arrange for a friend or family member to take you home from the surgery centre ahead of time. Fortunately, most LASIK patients will be cleared by their doctor to drive again the day after their surgery. Although, bear in mind that this will vary from person to person.

5. Wear comfortable clothes to your appointment

Tight clothing can restrict your movement and make it harder to get comfortable, which can be distracting and cause discomfort during the procedure. Loose-fitting clothing allows you to move more freely, can help you feel more relaxed, and will be easier to take off once you return home to begin your recovery. Additionally, you should refrain from wearing clothing containing wool or fleece, as this may generate lint.

6. Plan for adequate recovery time

LASIK surgery is typically an outpatient procedure, so you can go home the same day. However, you will need to take some time off work and other activities to allow your eyes to heal. Plan for at least a few days of rest and minimize activities that could strain your eyes, such as reading or watching TV.

Keep your follow-up appointments. After LASIK surgery, it is important to attend all of your follow-up appointments as scheduled. These appointments will allow your LASIK provider to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

7. Read through the paperwork provided

It is essential that patients fully understand all aspects of their LASIK procedure before proceeding. Reading through the paperwork is the best way to ensure that they are well-informed and confident, with full knowledge about everything that is involved in the process.

8. Refrain from wearing makeup, creams, or fragrances

On the day of your LASIK surgery, it is critical that you do not wear any makeup, creams/lotions, or products containing fragrances or alcohol, such as perfume, hairspray, after-shave, or mousse.

9. Shower on the morning of your procedure

Showering before your LASIK surgery will help to ensure that your face is clean of any potential contaminants. Be sure to refrain from using any fragranced products on the body afterward, as well, and do not apply any products to your face.

LASIK Eye Surgery Aftercare

You must carefully follow the post-surgery instructions provided to you following your LASIK eye procedure to ensure the best outcome possible.

These instructions will generally include a detailed description of what you can expect. This also includes a list of activities to avoid for one week and one month after LASIK, such as rubbing the eyes, watching TV/staring at screens, reading, wearing makeup, exercising, swimming, and using hot tubs.

You may also be instructed to wear post-operative goggles during sleep to protect your eyes for a few days following treatment, in addition to using eye drops.

There are several other things that you will be advised to both do and avoid following LASIK. One of the most important components of recovery is ensuring you get a lot of sleep, especially during the first six to twelve hours after surgery.

By following these steps, you can help ensure a successful LASIK surgery experience and achieve the best possible vision correction results.

Contact Clearview Vision Institute Today

Are you ready to finally schedule your LASIK laser eye surgery in Toronto? Our team of experts is here to help, and will guide you through every step of the way to ensure a smooth and successful outcome. If you have any questions about laser eye surgery in Toronto, feel free to reach out!

To book an appointment, call Clearview Vision Institute at 647-493-6371 or contact us here.