Common Questions and Answers about LASIK

Laser eye surgery is a big decision. The changes are permanent; therefore, you are likely to have a lot of questions regarding the preparation, recovery and side effects.

It is important to realise that there is no “wrong” or “silly” question and a good surgeon is there to answer every concern you may have. To help familiarise yourself with the LASIK  procedure, here are some common questions and answers which will hopefully put some of those pressing questions on your mind to rest.

How Do You Prepare for LASIK?
Preparing for your surgery is simple. You will first have a consultation with a skilled LASIK surgeon to make sure you are a suitable candidate. If you are, you will be given a list of preparation tasks to complete, which may include:

1. Not wearing contacts for at least three days or up to three weeks prior to your appointment, especially if they are gas permeable.
2. Eating a light meal before surgery.
3. Taking all prescribed medications (unless specified otherwise).
4. Not applying any eye drops unless told to do so on the day of your procedure.
5. Not wearing eye makeup or hair accessories on the day of your surgery.

Most importantly, if you have a fever or are not feeling well, call to reschedule your surgery. Your surgeon will determine if you need to postpone based on your symptoms.

What Are the Common Side Effects?
Side effects with LASIK are very rare. Most patients suffer from general discomfort, but this resolves in 24 to 48 hours. Some other side effects you may experience include:

1. Glares
2. Halos around objects
3. Night vision issues
4. Fluctuating vision
5. Chronic dry eyes

If you experience any side effects, contact your surgeon right away for an assessment.

What is the Recovery Like?
Recovery is fairly simple. Your surgeon will give you detailed after care instructions to make sure your eyes recover correctly. The healing process is rapid with LASIK, but you may have blurred vision the first day. Once that dissipates, you will notice a dramatic improvement in your vision.

To prevent infection or inflammation, it is imperative your eyes remain moist. You will be given special eye drops by your surgeon to do just that. You must use these as directed and do not use any unapproved eye drops.

Learn more about LASIK or meet with an Optilase surgeon to see if you are a candidate for laser eye surgery in Belfast. Call us on 0800 511 8005 or schedule your consultation online.