See Clearly Now: What to Expect from a Laser Eye Surgery Procedure

Updated on September 18, 2019
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Laser eye surgery is performed to treat hyperopia, myopia, and astigmatism. There are many types of laser eye surgery. The most common type is called LASIK, which is an acronym for ‘laser-assistant in situ keratomileuses’.

This type of laser eye surgery works by changing the shape of the cornea. It is pain-free and only takes 15 minutes for both eyes. Vision is improved straight after the procedure and will become clearer over a day or two.

But what can you expect from laser eye surgery? Continue reading to find out. 

What to Expect Before Laser Eye Surgery 

Your eye doctor will perform a thorough check and exam of both eyes to make sure they are healthy enough for the surgery.

They will look at the shape of your cornea, your pupil size, and any other eye conditions. A map of your cornea will be taken by an automated machine called a corneal topographer.

You will undergo a wavefront analysis to give your doctor a precise map of your eye. You will be asked about your general health as well as any medications.

You will be required to stop wearing contact lenses for 2 weeks before your examination and 2 weeks before your surgery. This is because your cornea can change shape when you wear contact lenses.

What to Expect During Laser Eye Surgery

Before the laser begins, numbing eye drops will be placed in your eyes. Your doctor may also give you a sedative to help you relax if you are really nervous.

Each eye will be positioned under the laser, and your eyes will be held open. Your doctor will ink mark your eye before cutting a flap in your cornea. Once the flap is created, the laser will get to work and run an automatic program set by your eye map.

Your doctor will watch the whole process through a microscope to ensure all the problem areas are targeted. Each eye is done separately, so this process will repeat for the next eye. 

What to Expect After Laser Eye Surgery

After your surgery is complete, you should rest. You may get a burning or itching feeling in your eye following the procedure.

Your doctor will examine your eyes quickly after surgery. A friend or relative will need to drive you home until your doctor has checked your eyes to ensure you can see properly without glasses.

You may have blurry vision, but this should improve by the next day. You should rest for the following week after surgery to give your eyes a chance to heal. Do not rub your eyes, as the corneal flap is trying to repair.

For more information on laser eye surgery, check out this LASIK FAQ page. 

Undergo Laser Eye Surgery Today!

Laser eye surgery can change your life. You will no longer have to wear contact lenses or glasses to be able to see clearly. Most people achieve full 20//20 vision or even better after laser eye surgery.

For more health and wellness information, take a look at the other articles on our blog.

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