Calming Your Nerves for Laser Eye Surgery: The Soft Toy Approach

Today, Laser Eye Surgery is among the most commonly performed elective procedures in the world. Tens of millions of people around the globe have happily ditched their glasses and contact lenses thanks to this life-changing treatment. Yet, despite its widespread popularity and accessibility, many are still apprehensive of the idea of having lasers aimed at one of their most valuable assets: their eyes.

This reaction is understandable. After all, we use our vision every waking hour of the day – even if, for some of us, it is affected by refractive errors such as long-sightedness (hyperopia), short-sightedness (myopia), or astigmatism.

So, how do you overcome this rational fear of lasers and eye surgery? Well, at London Vision Clinic, we take a number of approaches to helping our patients overcome their nerves.

The Soft Toy Approach

Many of us will have fond memories of our childhood, many of which may well be shared with our favourite soft toy. Whether our friend of choice was a floppy rabbit, a one-armed teddy bear, or a scruffy puppy, the bond between child and stuffed toy was difficult to break.

Of course, the vast majority of us will have grown out of hanging out with our fuzzy friends (at least in public). So, what help could a soft toy provide in the face of operating theatres and powerful lasers?

Well, it turns out, quite a lot!

What Does the Science Say?

While many of us might like to believe that our childhood dependence on our cuddly toys might have dissipated as we got older, studies show that soft toys continue to have a comforting effect on us well into adulthood. This is due to a range of psychological and physiological factors.

For example, some experts believe that the softness and warmth of our inanimate furry friends can mimic the human touch, which triggers the release of oxytocin. Also known as the “love” or “cuddle” hormone, oxytocin is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in social processes and emotional attachment.

The release of oxytocin can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels, thanks to its ability to reduce the activity of the amygdala, a region of the brain associated with fear and anxiety.

But what does all this have to do with easing your nerves as you head into the operating room for your Laser Eye Surgery treatment?

A Helping Hand at a Stressful Time

Cuddly toys are far from a rare sight at hospitals and health clinics. All of the potential benefits above can make them useful tools for helping patients ease their anxieties as they head in for treatments – and Laser Eye Surgery is no exception.

Any patient who chooses our Harley Street clinic for their Laser Eye Surgery procedure will be familiar with the numerous methods of relaxation we employ to calm their nerves, including offering a soft and cuddly companion to hold throughout their procedure. While you might find this amusing at first, holding onto something squishy and comforting at this stressful times definitely beats clasping your hands together!

And many of our patients agree, as Paul, who had treatment with us in 2020, will attest:

“From start to finish, I was made to feel comfortable and safe by all staff members. They literally think of everything to give a client comfort during a time when most people will be nervous. The cuddly toy during the operation is pure genius.”

What Other Calming Tricks Do We Offer?

As mentioned above, our soothing cuddly toys aren’t the only way we strive to help you calm your nerves before Laser Eye Surgery.

Patients visiting our clinic will have access to a range of complimentary treats, including hot and cold drinks, biscuits, and chocolates. Of course, chocolate is almost always an acceptable distraction, but there is also science to support its comforting benefits. Take a look at our recent article, ‘Chocolate as a Stress Reliever – Take Your Fill!‘

We even offer a relaxing head massage to ease you into your treatment!

You might say we’ve thought of everything when it comes to easing your nerves before Laser Eye Surgery. But if you still have any concerns, our friendly and caring clinic coordinators are always on hand to help. So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch or Book a Consultation today!