LASIK (Laser-assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a surgical procedure used to correct vision issues, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. When done correctly, this procedure can reduce dependence on eyeglasses and contact lenses. Here are the dos and don’ts before LASIK eye surgery:
Dos Before LASIK Surgery
By following certain guidelines before the procedure, you can have a better outcome and lower potential risks. Here are the dos before LASIK eye surgery:
Drink Sufficient Water
Drink water before the procedure to promote your overall health and well-being. Adequate hydration is useful in maintaining proper eye moisture. Dry eyes can be a common side effect after LASIK surgery, and drinking water helps keep your eyes hydrated before the procedure. Well-hydrated eyes heal better since water transports nutrients, oxygen, and immune cells throughout the body.
Arrange for a Ride
Find a responsible person to drive you home after eye surgery since an ophthalmologist can prescribe valium, and you might not be able to get behind the wheel. Your vision could be blurred temporarily until you heal, meaning you need someone to drive you home after surgery. Choose a comfortable mode of transportation that can allow you to have a stress-free experience. Confirm your driver’s availability to arrive on time for your surgery.
Get Enough Sleep
When you are well-rested, your eyes can produce adequate tears and promote a healthy tear film, lowering the risk of dry eye symptoms. Resting before LASIK surgery can also help reduce anxiety and stress, allowing you to approach the procedure calmly. Sufficient sleep also helps maintain the optimal health of your eyes, which can contribute to better surgical outcomes and healing.
Don’ts Before LASIK Surgery
During a consultation, an ophthalmologist can provide pre-operative instructions for better results during surgery. Here are some don’ts before LASIK surgery:
Avoid Eye Makeup, Lotion, or Perfume
To minimize the risk of infection, refrain from using eye makeup, lotions, or perfumes on the day of the surgery. Strong fragrances can irritate the eyes or interfere with the sterile environment in the surgical clinic. Lotions can also contaminate your eyes and react with surgical equipment, leading to more complications. Cleanse your face thoroughly before the procedure to keep the area sanitary.
Don’t Wear Contact Lenses Some Weeks Before Surgery
Refrain from wearing contact lenses for a specific period before LASIK surgery. Contact lenses can modify the shape of the cornea, and removing them allows the cornea to return to its natural state, boosting accurate pre-operative measurements. Contact lenses can also affect the tear film and moisture balance on the surface of your eyes, delaying recovery. If you don’t follow proper hygiene practices when wearing lenses, they can increase the risk of eye infection before surgery.
Don’t Use Certain Medications
Discontinue specific medications that can affect surgery and your recuperation. Your optometrist may suggest that you discontinue anti-inflammatory medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which can affect the body’s recovery response. Some herbal supplements and vitamins can have blood-thinning effects and affect the system’s healing response. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can also impact the eye’s response to surgical procedures.
Read Also: 5 Tools Used in Mass Spectrometry
Schedule an Appointment for LASIK Eye Surgery
During LASIK eye surgery, an ophthalmologist uses numbing eye drops to boost your comfort. After that, the expert utilizes a microkeratome or femtosecond laser to create a corneal flap. The surgeon then reshapes the cornea and removes the affected tissue using the laser. The next step is to reposition the cornea for healing. A surgeon then offers post-operative care instructions, including the use of eye drops and protective goggles. Book an appointment with a certified ophthalmologist to receive LASIK surgery.
