The prospect of being less dependent on glasses or contacts and being able to live a more active life is a dream for many people. With the help of laser eye surgery and the experience of Dr Cameron McLintock, your dreams of clear vision can soon become a reality.
Undergoing any surgical procedure can be stressful but with the right information, any fears you have about laser eye surgery will be alleviated.
The process of laser eye surgery is very straightforward for you and there is no special preparation required.
You can continue all normal activities up until the day of your surgery. On the day of your surgery, you will attend the laser centre accompanied by a responsible adult. You will be at the laser centre for two to three hours. You will be offered a relaxation tablet to help you with any anxiety you may be feeling (which is entirely normal).
When it is time for your surgery, you will walk into the laser room where you will lie down on a bed. Your eyes will be cleaned with antiseptic solution to minimise the chance of any infection.
You will feel movement but no pain during your procedure. The actual time it takes for the laser to occur is usually less than 1 minute on each eye. At the end of the procedure most people comment on how simple the process was for them.
Below are other things to note about how you can prepare for your procedure and the steps you can take to aid your recovery.
Avoid Makeup and Other Facial Products
In the days leading up to your procedure, avoid wearing any makeup or applying other facial products. Leftover debris from makeup can increase your risk of infection and complicate the healing process.
Other ways you can prepare your eyes for surgery include:
- Using drops or artificial tears to lubricate your eyes.
- ‘Steam’ your eyelids by holding a warm washcloth over your eyelids once a day.
- Avoid rubbing or excessively touching your eyes.
Contact lenses and glasses
Please continue to wear your glasses or contact lenses until your surgery (unless specifically requested otherwise). You can continue all normal activities up until the day of your surgery.
Wear Sunglasses After Surgery
Laser eye surgery procedures leave the eyes particularly sensitive in the days after surgery. To protect your eyes after surgery and ensure a shorter recovery time, have your sunglasses ready to wear. Remember your prescription sunglasses will no longer work so you may have to purchase a new pair of sunglasses before undergoing the procedure.
Have a Carer Ready
An essential part of your surgery is to have a carer with you. You’ll be unable to drive following your procedure so be sure to have a family member or friend who can drive you home. You will be able to drive after 24 hours for Lasik. If you’ve had PRK or PTK, you’ll need to refrain from driving for a few more days.
For your safety, ensure that someone can stay with you in the first few days after surgery to provide basic care. You’ll likely have shields secured to your eyes to protect them so having help with this will aid your recovery.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
The laser procedure room can be quite cold so wear something a bit warmer and that’s easy to remove, preferably zipped clothing so you don’t have to pull anything over your head. Avoid ‘fluffy’ clothes as the lint may cause problems in the room.
Contact Us Today
Are you ready for your new life after laser eye surgery? While you should be prepared for your procedure day, don’t be afraid to get excited about the future that awaits you.
Dr Cameron McLintock is a Brisbane eye surgeon specialising in laser eye surgery. Now that you know how to prepare for laser eye surgery, you can start your transformation today. Contact Dr Cameron McLintock’s rooms to schedule your consultation today.