Preparing for LASIK
LASIK Eye Surgery in Derry, NH
Are you getting ready to improve your vision with LASIK? Here at Spindel Eye Associates, we have all the information you need to get ready for the procedure, from the weeks before to the hours before the surgery. Preparing for LASIK has never been easier. Feel free to call us in Derry, NH, to ask any questions about LASIK and what to expect. We’re standing by to help you enjoy better vision!
Who Qualifies for LASIK?
If you’re considering LASIK, the Spindel Eye Associates ophthalmologists will conduct a thorough screening to make sure you’re a viable candidate. We’ll give you an eye exam that evaluates your lifestyle, measures your corneal thickness and shape, and analyze vision deficits and other factors. You must pass these tests, be over 18 years of age, and you must not be pregnant to be a candidate for LASIK. If you’re given the all clear for the procedure, we’ll schedule the surgery and provide all the relevant information and medication you need to prepare.
2 to 4 Weeks Before the LASIK Surgery
In general, contacts should not be worn for the weeks preceding your surgery. Usually, soft contact use should be discontinued two weeks before LASIK, and rigid gas permeable lenses should be discontinued four weeks before the procedure. This is because contacts can alter the precise cornea measurements taken of your eye at your pre-surgery evaluation. Also, be sure to take any prescribed medication. If you have special circumstances that affect how you will need to prepare for LASIK, the eye doctors at Spindel Eye Associates will inform you of what you need to do.
In addition, we recommend you fill all your pre-operation and post-operation medication and arrange for transportation beforehand so you have everything in place for your recovery.
The Night Before the LASIK Surgery
The night before your procedure, thoroughly cleanse your face of all makeup and lotions. You’ll also need to flush your eyes with artificial tears to completely clear out any debris. Be sure to review pre-operative and post-operative care instructions to prepare yourself. Also, take note of any questions you’d like to ask your surgeon on the day of your LASIK procedure and ensure your transportation to and from the surgery is established.
Don’t forget to relax and get a good night’s sleep! LASIK is an extremely common, low-risk surgery that will be done within an hour. You can rest easy knowing you’re in good hands and are on your way to improved vision.
The Day of LASIK
On the day of your LASIK procedure, make sure not to wear any makeup, face lotion, or cologne and perfume. Dress comfortably and avoid wearing anything that could prevent you from lying completely flat beneath the laser. Eat a light meal and continue to take any prescribed medication.
When you arrive at the clinic for LASIK, tell us how you’re feeling. If you’re anxious, we offer anti-anxiety medication to help you lie still and feel completely at ease. We’ll then apply numbing drops. You’ll only feel slight pressure from the laser that creates an ultrathin flap that allows us access to reshape your cornea. Once we position the laser over your eye and the vision correction laser pattern is applied, your corneal flap will be lowered, and we’ll repeat the procedure on your other eye. The whole procedure should only take 15 to 30 minutes.
Your Eye Vision Experts
And that’s it! After your LASIK procedure, it’s common to immediately experience better vision. Depending on the individual, however, you may experience some disorientation or blurry vision afterward, which is why it’s important to have a friend or family member drive you home. Of course, we’ll provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Contact Spindel Eye Associates in Derry, NH, to schedule your next eye appointment or to learn if you’re a candidate for LASIK. Preparing for LASIK is a stress-free process with our help. Call us today!