Pre-operative Instructions for LASIK Surgery Patients
December 17th, 2013
LASIK is one of the most popular and effective options out there for advanced eye care. By undergoing LASIK, people are able to see clearly without the assistance of glasses or contacts. It’s an ideal solution for addressing refractive errors, which you likely know better by the following terms:
- Myopia (Nearsightedness)
- Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
- Astigmatism
We’d like to take a few moments right now to consider the nature of pre-op instructions for LASIK and why these are so important for patients to keep in mind.
About LASIK Surgery
First some basics about the LASIK surgery procedure. LASIK involves the reshaping of the cornea, which is the thin, clear, frontal part of the eye. This is done through a small flap that is created in the topmost part of the cornea. By reshaping the cornea, light passes through the eyes properly en route to the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eyes).
Why Pre-operative Instructions Are So Important
Pre-operative instructions are intended to help achieve the best possible results for patients during and after surgery. These pre-op instructions help improve the healing experience and allow patients to experience optimal results after the surgery is completed.
Full pre-op instructions will be provided during the consultation process, but here are some basics that patients should keep in mind.
Stop Wearing Contact Lenses
Contact lenses affect the shape of a person’s cornea. Since LASIK is performed to reshape the cornea, it’s important that the corneas be in a natural state. As such, patients will be asked to stop wearing contact lenses for a few weeks before undergoing LASIK. The exact time will be determined by the type of contacts a patient wears.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Smoking and drinking both affect healing time and healing experience. In order to ensure that you recover as soon as possible after LASIK surgery, it’s important that you quit drinking and smoking before surgery and after surgery as well.
Pick Up Any Prescription Medicines Ahead of Time
Anything you can do before LASIK to reduce worry after surgery is a plus. That’s why we recommend that patients pick up any prescription medication in the days before surgery. It’s just one less thing to think about doing while you recover.
Clean Around the Home and Run Errands
In line with the advice above, be sure that your home is clean, your laundry is clean, and that you have groceries for your days of recovery. It sounds like a little thing, but it can make a big difference.
Arrange for Transportation and Assistance After Surgery
After LASIK you will not be in any condition to operate a vehicle. Be sure to arrange for a loved one to help you home. It’s also ideal to have a loved one with you as you recover in order to help around the home as needed and to ensure you heal properly.
What to Do Before Going In for LASIK Surgery
Before going in for LASIK, be sure not to:
- Use makeup
- Use facial lotion or cream
- Wear jewelry
- Wear perfume or cologne
As for attire, be sure to wear loose, comfortable clothing to the surgical suite. Remain relaxed as you await your LASIK procedure and know that you’re in good hands.
Learn More About LASIK Surgery
If you would like to learn more about LASIK surgery and how it can best improve your overall wellness, be sure to contact our Huntsville and Decatur, Alabama laser eye surgeons today. The entire team here looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best possible vision in the process.
