What to Expect Before, During, and After LASIK Surgery
LASIK surgery is a more permanent alternative to eyeglasses and contact lenses for correcting refractive vision errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This procedure reshapes your cornea to give you visual clarity without requiring glasses or contacts. Naples Eye Physicians in Naples, FL, is here to tell you what to expect before, during, and after LASIK to help prepare you for this laser eye surgery.
Consultation and Evaluation Before Surgery
The first step towards LASIK is a comprehensive consultation with your ophthalmologist. Your ophthalmologist will examine your eyes, including a detailed evaluation of your corneal thickness, tear production, and eye health. They will also discuss your medical history and expectations for LASIK surgery. This initial consultation is crucial to determine if you are a suitable candidate for LASIK. Poor candidates include people who have underlying health conditions, unstable prescriptions, or those with thin corneas.
The LASIK Procedure
LASIK is an outpatient procedure typically performed with anesthetic eye drops. Your ophthalmologist near you will use a specialized instrument to create a thin flap in the outer layer of your cornea. The underlying corneal tissue is then reshaped with a precise laser to correct your specific vision imperfection. Finally, the corneal flap is carefully repositioned and heals naturally. The entire LASIK procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes per eye. Be sure to prepare transportation arrangements to get home since your eyes will require time to recover.
Post-Op Recovery and Follow-Up
Most people will experience temporary blurry vision and burning or itching sensations in the eyes following LASIK surgery. However, these symptoms should resolve shortly after your procedure. Your ophthalmologist near you will prescribe medications to reduce your risk of infection and help your eyes heal. You should experience significant vision improvement within the first 24 hours after surgery, and your vision will continue to improve over the following days and weeks. You must schedule follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist to ensure proper healing and vision correction.
Considering LASIK Surgery? Contact Naples Eye Physicians Today!
LASIK surgery can be a life-changing procedure for people who want to be free from wearing glasses or contact lenses. If you are interested in learning more about LASIK and whether or not you are a good candidate, consider contacting Naples Eye Physicians in Naples, FL. Our eye doctor can evaluate your eyes and determine your candidacy for this laser eye surgery, so call us and schedule an appointment today at (239) 262-6288.