Before and After LASIK Eye Surgery: What to Expect

LASIK eye surgery might be a solution for people who are looking forward to removing their glasses or contact lenses. LASIK is an advanced laser procedure that helps in reshaping the cornea to improve vision. It is a quick, effective, and often life-changing option for vision correction. 

In this blog, we will walk you through everything you need to know before, during, and after LASIK surgery so you can be prepared for it. 

What Is LASIK Eye Surgery and Who Is It For?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis),  an advanced laser eye procedure for the correction of common vision problems like nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. LASIK surgery works by reshaping the cornea so that the light entering the eye focuses properly on the retina, leading to improved eye health. 

LASIK is generally recommended for adults over the age of 18. Using a laser guided by a detailed map of your eye, LASIK is typically completed in under 30 minutes and offers quick visual recovery. It’s a popular choice for people who want freedom from glasses or contact lenses and are looking for a permanent vision correction solution.

Preparing for LASIK: What to Expect Before the Procedure

Preparation for LASIK surgery involves careful planning and following guidelines for a safe experience. Before the procedure, go through a detailed consultation process. 

What to expect before LASIK surgery: 

• Consultation: Eye specialist performs a series of tests to examine the vision, corneal thickness, pupil size, and overall eye health. This helps confirm your eligibility for LASIK.
• Discontinue Contact Lenses: Switch to glasses for a period of ideally 1 week, but at least 3 days, before the pre-operative evaluation, as contact lenses can temporarily alter corneal shape.
• Avoid Makeup and Creams: A few days before surgery, avoid wearing eye makeup, lotions, and creams around the eyes to reduce the risk of infection.
• Follow Medication Guidelines: Medications or prescribed antibiotics, or anti-inflammatory eye drops to use before the procedure, according to the doctor. 

What Happens in LASIK Surgery?

Understanding the LASIK procedure can help ease any anxiety you might have. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key steps:

1. Numbing the Eye: Special anesthetic eye drops are applied to numb your eye, ensuring you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. No injections are needed.
2. Creating a Corneal Flap: A thin flap is made on the surface of the cornea. This can be done using a microkeratome (blade) or a femtosecond laser in bladeless LASIK.
3. Reshaping the Cornea: The flap is lifted, and an excimer laser is used to reshape the inner layers of the cornea. This step corrects your vision by allowing light to focus properly on the retina.
4. Repositioning the Flap: Once the reshaping is done, the flap is carefully placed back in its original position. It naturally sticks without stitches and begins to heal immediately.

Understanding LASIK Recovery: Aftercare

LASIK eye surgery offers rapid results, but proper aftercare is essential for a smooth and safe recovery. Immediately after the procedure, patients may feel mild discomfort, a burning sensation, or sensitivity to light. Resting your eyes during the first few hours is key.

Immediate Aftercare

• Mild discomfort is normal: Expect burning, tearing, or light sensitivity right after the procedure.
• Rest your eyes: Avoid screen time and bright light for the first few hours.
• Avoid touching your eyes: Rubbing can disrupt the healing process.

Recovery Timeline

• Most patients notice improved vision within the first 24 hours.
• Many people can return to work in 1–3 days, but allowing up to 1 week is advisable for comfortable vision recovery based on job type.
• Vision continues to stabilise over the next few weeks to months.
• Temporary effects such as dry eyes, halos, glare, or light sensitivity may occur during the healing phase.

Follow-Up Appointments

• Attend all scheduled check-ups to monitor your healing.
• Report unusual symptoms such as severe pain, sudden vision loss, or increased redness.

By following these aftercare tips and precautions, patients can significantly reduce the risk of complications and enjoy the full benefits of clearer vision post-LASIK.

Post-Surgery LASIK Aftercare: Dos and Don’ts

• Keep your eyes protected from dust and unclean water for approximately 3 to 4 weeks to lower the risk of infection after surgery.
• Be gentle while showering, and make sure no soap, shampoo, or water splashes directly into the eyes.
• Use grooming products like hair sprays and aftershaves with caution.
• Stay out of pools, the ocean, hot tubs, and steam rooms for a minimum of four weeks to protect eyes from harmful bacteria and chemicals.
• Hold off on hair treatments, such as coloring or perming, for two weeks to avoid irritation from harsh chemicals.
• Pause workouts for the first couple of days, and try to keep sweating away.
• Avoid dusty or dirty places for two to three weeks, and wear UV-protective sunglasses.

Conclusion

Millions around the world now enjoy clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. Over time, the procedure has become even more effective with the help of advanced technology and skilled surgeons. Trusted eye care centers like Krishna Netralaya, known for offering modern LASIK solutions and personalized care, help make the journey to clearer vision smooth and safe.