How to Prepare for Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery has helped many people virtually eliminate their dependence on contact lenses and glasses. Even though it's relatively safe, there are several things you can do to prepare for your laser eye surgery so that you get the best possible results.

Instructions

Prepare Yourself for Laser Eye Surgery

• 1

  Talk to your surgeon. Although many people experience great results with laser eye surgery, every case is unique. You need to have a frank conversation with your surgeon to determine what result you're likely to get. Some surgeries completely eliminate a person's need for corrective lenses, while other operations merely lessen a person's prescription.

• 2

  Speak with former patients. Ask your surgeon for the names of individuals who have had the same procedure you're having. Ask them about their experience, their results, their recovery time and any complications they may have had. This will give you a better idea of what to expect from your laser eye surgery.

• 3

  Make arrangements for transportation. After having laser eye surgery you won't be able to drive, so you'll need to have someone take you home when you're done.

• 4

  Take time off from work. Most laser eye surgeons recommend that patients take a few days off after having the surgery to heal. Speak with your doctor about the period of time off you'll need which will depend largely on the procedure you're having.

• 5

  Follow pre-op instructions to the letter. Different laser eye surgery centers differ on pre-op policies, but whatever your surgeon tells you to do (or not to do) before the operation, don't deviate from those instructions. While some might seem trivial like: not wearing cologne, make-up or face creams, there are issues related to infection that make these prohibitions necessary.

• 6

  Take out your contacts. While contact lenses are great, they often prevent the cornea from absorbing oxygen. This can lead to neovascularization, which is when blood vessels form on the cornea. Not wearing your contacts a few weeks prior to surgery will either reduce or eliminate these formations. Performing laser eye surgery on eyes in this condition can lead to longer recovery times, inflammation and severe discomfort during the operation.

• 7

  Make sure that you prepare some basic first-aid items in your medicine cabinet. You'll want to have pain reliever, tissues and hypoallergenic pads. Most laser eye surgeries are completed without any complications, but if you find yourself experiencing difficulties, you'll want to be able to get some relief until you can get to the doctor.