What to Expect the Day of LASIK Surgery

If you’re considering LASIK surgery to improve your vision, you’ve taken a huge step toward no longer being dependent on glasses or contacts — congratulations! If you’re wondering what to expect on the day of your LASIK procedure, we’ll guide you through every step of the way. 

At Ophthalmology Associates of Bay Ridge in Brooklyn, New York, Elias Aliprandis, MD, Irene Rusu, MD, and our highly experienced team offer the most advanced customized laser vision correction. You can rest assured that you’re in great hands with the leaders in bladeless LASIK surgery, achieving 20/20 vision in up to 98% of patients. 

In the meantime, we’ll give you a breakdown of what you can expect on the day of your LASIK surgery. 

Preparing for LASIK surgery

Before your LASIK surgery appointment, our team provides you with detailed pre-operative instructions to follow. Here’s what you can expect in the days leading up to your procedure: 

Stop wearing contact lenses

Depending on our specific instructions, you may need to discontinue wearing your contacts for a specific period before your LASIK surgery. Contact lenses can alter the shape of your cornea, so it’s essential to give your eyes time to return to their natural state before undergoing LASIK. 

Arrange transportation

Since you won’t be able to drive immediately after your surgery, it’s crucial to arrange for transportation to and from our office on the day of your procedure. 

Following fasting guidelines 

We may instruct you to abstain from eating or drinking anything, including water, for a specified period before LASiK. Following fasting guidelines helps reduce the risk of complications during your procedure. 

Review consent forms 

Before your LASIK surgery, you’ll have the opportunity to review and sign consent forms outlining the risks, benefits, and potential complications of the procedure. Take this time to ask questions and address concerns. 

During LASIK surgery 

Once you’re prepared and ready, it’s time for your LASIK surgery to begin. Here’s what you can expect from the LASIK procedure: 

Preparation 

Before your procedure begins, we numb your eye with eye drops to ensure your comfort throughout the surgery. We also give you a mild sedative to help you relax. 

Corneal flap creation  

During LASIK surgery, we use a specialized laser or microkeratome to create a thin flap in the outer layer of your cornea. We then lift this flap, allowing access to the underlying corneal tissue. 

Reshaping your cornea 

Using a computer-controlled laser, we’re able to reshape the curvature of your cornea to correct your refractive error. This precise reshaping process typically takes just a few minutes per eye. 

Flap repositioning

After the corneal reshaping is complete, the corneal flap is carefully repositioned onto the treated area of your cornea. The flap doesn’t require stitches because it adheres naturally. 

After LASIK surgery 

Following your LASIK surgery procedure, we escort you to a recovery area where you can rest and relax. Here’s what you can expect during that post-operative period: 

Immediate vision improvement

Many patients see better right after their surgery, although some blurriness and discomfort are normal initially. 

Postoperative instructions 

Our team provides you with detailed postoperative instructions to follow, including using prescribed eye drops, avoiding rubbing your eyes, and attending your follow-up appointments. 

Rest and recovery 

It’s essential to rest and relax after your LASIK surgery to allow your eyes to heal properly. We highly recommend avoiding strenuous activities, swimming, and wearing eye makeup for the first few days following your procedure. 

Follow-up appointments 

Don’t miss your scheduled follow-up appointments with us. This is how we monitor your healing process and ensure you get the best possible outcome. 

In the end, knowing what to expect on the day of your LASIK surgery can help alleviate a lot of anxiety and prepare you for a successful procedure and smooth recovery. If you’re ready to learn more, click here to set up an appointment with our team of experts today.