What to Expect: Before, During and After LASIK Surgery
Laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis (understandably better known as ‘LASIK’), is the most common Laser Eye Surgery procedure. Its introduction at the turn of the millennium heralded a new age for Laser Eye Surgery which, despite the development of further innovative techniques, is still in its heyday.
While innovations like ReLEx SMILE have meant that more people than ever before are suitable for Laser Eye Surgery, LASIK is still the go-to treatment for the majority of patients.
If, like millions before you, you’re considering LASIK treatment, you will probably want to know what you can expect before, during and after the procedure. So, let’s find out!
How Does LASIK Work?
Like all Laser Eye Surgery procedures, LASIK involves using ultra-precise laser technology to reshape the cornea. This is achieved by removing a pre-calculated area of corneal tissue from the eye. In turn, this will change the way light is reflected into the eye, allowing it to sit more accurately on the retina (the photosensitive layer at the back of the eye).
LASIK allows your surgeon to remove the necessary corneal tissue through a small flap which is created on the surface of the cornea. In contrast, the surface procedures (PRK and LASEK) require the removal of a whole portion of the cornea. ReLEx SMILE instead accesses the corneal bed via a small incision.
Before LASIK
You can expect a number of things in the weeks, days, and hours between booking your initial consultation and your scheduled LASIK treatment.
The Days Before
Patients are required to remove their contact lenses for at least a week before consultation. This allows your corneas to return to their natural shape and ensures we collect accurate measurements during your consultation.
Once you have decided to go ahead with LASIK, your surgeon will walk you through your personalised treatment plan. You will be informed of any steps you will need to take in the days before your treatment.
The Hours Before
In the 24 hours before your LASIK treatment, you should refrain from drinking alcohol as this can disrupt the healing process. You will also be asked not to wear makeup on the day of your procedure.
Once you arrive at the clinic, you will be welcomed by one of our friendly patient care coordinators. They will be available to answer any last-minute questions you might have (and to provide you with complimentary drinks and chocolates!).
The Minutes Before
Your patient care coordinator will provide you with your aftercare pack and walk you through your recovery regime. Your aftercare pack will include an information leaflet, lubricating eye drops, painkillers, and a sleeping mask.
Finally, just before accompanying you to the treatment room, one of our doctors will apply the anaesthetic eye drops that will ensure you feel no pain during the procedure.
During Your LASIK Procedure
Your surgeon will help you to get comfortable, and ready for your treatment and talk you through every step of the process. As mentioned above, Laser Eye Surgery shouldn’t hurt, but you will experience some strange sensations throughout the treatment.
As the treatment begins, your surgeon will advise you to focus on the flashing light. You will feel some pressure in the eye for a few moments, but before you know it, your treatment will be complete. In fact, it can take as little as a few minutes to correct your vision in both eyes!
After LASIK
Thanks to the amazing healing power of the eye, the corneal flap begins to seal itself almost immediately. No stitches are required!
The Minutes After
Immediately after your LASIK treatment, you will be taken to our comfortable recovery room to rest. You will be advised to keep your eyes closed as much as possible to prevent any sensitivity to light and dust. You will be able to return home shortly afterwards, confident that you have everything you need to manage the first 24 hours of your recovery.
The Hours After
While it is normal to experience some discomfort as the effects of the anaesthetic drops wear off, this should be managed with standard painkillers, or if necessary, stronger painkillers provided as part of your aftercare package.
During the first 24 hours, you should refrain from watching TV, looking at other screens, and performing close-up tasks to avoid eye strain. Take this time to relax – maybe put on some music and get cosy on the sofa!
The next day, you will return to the clinic for your one-day follow-up appointment. During this appointment, your surgeon will confirm whether you are both happy with the initial results of your treatment. In the majority of cases, you will be signed off to return to work, drive, and resume light exercise.
The Days After
In the days and weeks after your LASIK treatment, some swelling and dryness can continue to affect the eyes. This can cause side effects such as halos and starbursts; however, these should subside over time and dryness can usually be managed with the lubricating eye drops provided by your clinic.
As your eyes continue to heal, you will begin to recognise the full benefits of your LASIK treatment. While we can’t guarantee that you will be able to ditch your glasses completely, many of our patients achieve 20/20 vision and the vast majority are thrilled with their new vision.
In a small number of cases, an enhancement procedure may be needed to recognise the full potential of Laser Eye Surgery. At the London Vision Clinic, necessary enhancement procedures are provided free of charge.
There you have it – everything you can expect before, during, and after your LASIK treatment. So, what are you waiting for? Why not get in touch to schedule a visit to our Harley Street clinic? Alternatively, you can Book a Consultation using the form below.