Preparing for any type of surgery, whether a minor or major one can be nail-biting. You could even find yourself crestfallen. Preparing for a laser eye surgery is no exception, but by doing basic research and getting set ahead of time, you can put your mind at rest and ease off before the day of your surgery.
The following steps can help you be at ease before your laser eye surgery London
Ensure you are qualified for a laser eye surgery
Before your surgery, ensure you have a full evaluation carried out by your eye surgeon to determine if you are suitable for laser eye surgery. The evaluation will likely include tests such as
- Corneal thickness and mapping
- Vision and prescription testing
- Eye pressure and pupil dilation.
These tests are usually easy and painless. Learning more about your eye before your surgery will help you get relaxed and ensure better treatment.
Make sure your surgeon knows all about your medical history
In discussing your medical history with your doctor, you must leave nothing out. Make sure your surgeon is aware of all your eye-related health issues and your general health problems. Your surgeon also needs to know the exact medications you regularly take and those you are allergic to.
Stop wearing eye makeup
A day or two before your laser eye surgery, you should keep your eye area very clean. Avoid the use of any form of eye makeup because the debris left on your eyelashes can increase the risk of getting an infection. Few days to your surgery, ensure that you always wash your eyes gently but make sure it is done thoroughly to remove any lingering makeup.
Switch from contact lenses to glasses
If you are using soft contact lenses, it is important you replace them with glasses at least one week before your laser eye surgery, but if you use hard (rigid gas permeable) lenses, you should take them out at least 3 – 4 weeks before your surgery. This is essential because contact lenses alter the shape of your corneas and wearing them may cause your eye measurement to be incorrect. Incorrect eye measurements can make the result of your surgery to be inaccurate.
Do not use creams, perfumes or lotions
Few days to your laser eye surgery, ensure that you keep your face free from facial moisturizers, perfumes or foundations. If these products make contact with your eyes, it increases your risk of infections
Organize a carer
Ensure that you properly plan for the day of your surgery. Make sure you make arrangements for someone to take you to and from your appointment. You may likely be given a sedative and shield to protect your eyes before the surgery. You are not permitted to drive after your surgery. Your surgeon will inform you when you are healed and fit to drive.
Wear something that is comfortable on the day of your surgery
Laser technology is best kept at a lower temperature, and it can get cold in a laser suite so make sure you wear something warm preferably something that you are comfortable in and does not need pulling on or off your head. Fluffy clothes are the best option.
Download podcasts or reading books
It is important to rest your eyes and keep them closed after your laser eye surgery. This means that you will not be allowed to use your mobile phone, computer, read books or watch television. You may likely sleep throughout the evening, but you can prepare a form of entertainment for your recovery period especially if you are having the ASLA procedure. You can get music or other audio entertainment.
Once you are prepared, you have nothing to worry about, but you can ask your surgeon questions and share your concerns with them if that makes you feel better.
Get the best laser eye surgery at Optimal Vision today. Feel free to contact us on 020 71833725 or info@optimalvision.co.uk.