While cures for vision loss are still under research, science has solved common eyesight problems. One of the main eyesight problems is when the eyes do not refract (bend) light.
Anyone who experiences refraction errors does not have good vision. The shape of their cornea prevents enough light from bending as required. The result is that not much light is focused on the retina, hence causing blurry vision.
Fortunately, for people with refractive errors, there’s a way around it. They can undergo LASIK surgery to correct refractive errors. LASIK is a refractive surgery that uses a laser to fix vision problems.
The good thing with LASIK surgery is that you may never need your glasses again if it is successful. But as is with every procedure, there are some things you need to know before getting the surgery. Below is our guide on these factors.
You will give up your contact lenses days before LASIK surgery
If you intend to go for LASIK surgery but have trouble letting go of your contact lenses, then this procedure may not be appropriate for you. Experts advise that you need to keep off your contact lenses at least a day before your surgery.
The main reason for not wearing contact lenses is that they can change the shape of your cornea for up to a week or two after you stop wearing them. Before refractive surgery, your cornea should assume its natural position to deliver an optimal visual outcome.
Failure to which your ophthalmologist may end up with inaccurate measurements. And you do not want anything that may interfere with the surgery process, do you?
Here is an accurate guide for the various types of contact lenses. Following these guidelines is a good way to ensure the success of your operation.
- Stop wearing soft contact glasses for at least a week before visiting your ophthalmologist.
- Do you wear hard lenses? It would help if you stopped wearing them for at least four weeks before you go for the initial examination.
- If you use the rigid gas permeable or the RGP lenses, experts advise you to put them down at least a month before your baseline exam.
Can you wear contact glasses after surgery?
After the surgery, you should avoid wearing contact lenses unless your doctor says otherwise. Contact lenses are drying and could attract bacteria that may slow down the healing process.
On a positive note, you may never need contact lenses once healed. And even if you must use them, no problems arise.
You must drink more water days before the procedure.
Drinking more water is essential before any procedure; the same applies to LASIK. Unless your doctor advises otherwise, taking more water should be your top priority. Dehydration, even without surgery, can affect the body significantly. It is even worse in the summer when temperatures are sweltering, and water levels are pretty low.
So why is it essential to increase your water intake before LASIK surgery? One of the significant side effects of this correction surgery is temporary dry eyes. The lack of moisture can make you feel irritated and cause pain.
You will also develop redness and trouble seeing. Therefore, drinking enough water lubricates the body, thus keeping your eyes well moisturized and preventing dry eyes.
Medical experts advise that once you schedule your LASIK surgery, you should aim for at least eight glasses of water per day or when you feel thirsty. It might sound too much if you rarely take a glass daily. However, that is the least amount you should take in a day to stay hydrated.
Regardless, always seek professional advice from your surgeon concerning LASIK before you embark on the hydration process.
You will need to avoid makeup or Lotions on the day of the LASIK procedure.
We understand the need to remain presentable and smell fresh even when under the weather. However, you will need to avoid lotion and makeup before the procedures. Your surgeon may ask you to avoid these items a few days before the surgery.
Instead, take a regular bath, and ensure your face is clean. Do not use any soap with contaminants. And because it is just a day, it would not harm to skip your perfume.
Applying lotions may make your skin greasy. And since touching your face comes naturally, you can transfer the contaminants and greasiness into your eyes. Therefore, it is best to avoid face cream and lotion altogether.
Similarly, wearing makeup, however little, poses a higher risk of infection after surgery.
You must share your medical history.
Although LASIK is not an intense surgery, sharing your medical history with your surgeon is essential. Your doctor may discover potential postoperative complications from your medical history.
In most cases, postoperative complications happen due to existing conditions. For example, a wound may take longer to heal if the patient has diabetes. Therefore, always share your medical history.
You need to be prepared to be awake.
During LASIK surgery, you will remain awake with your eyes open, despite receiving a sedative injection. It might sound uncomfortable, but watching everything going on can be a fascinating adventure. However, you can speak to your doctor about the process to calm your nerves.
Can you use eyedrops before LASIK?
It is worth noting any information concerning eyedrops prior to surgery. And the answer depends on your situation– your surgeon should offer guidance on this.
For some patients, underlying medical conditions make them more susceptible to dryness. One of the easiest ways to improve your teary film is using artificial tears or eye drops.
A good surgeon will likely ask you whether you have been using eyedrops. They will advise you when you can stop using the eye drops.
Takeaway:
LASIK eye surgery is a surgery that can transform your life. Most people do not need their glasses or contacts after LASIK. However, it is always important to learn more about the procedure. Therefore, if you are heading down this path, check the considerations above.
Ensure you involve your doctor before making any decision. And if you do not have one, our establishment has one to guide you. Book your appointment today!
