What To Expect Before, During, And After LASIK

LASIK is one form of corrective Laser Eye Surgery. The procedure involves cutting a small flap of the cornea and laying it to the side in order to remove a small amount of the cornea with a laser. The flap is then set back in place and begins to immediately repair itself. Contrary to Laser Eye Surgery misconceptions and myths, this procedure involves no burning or heat whatsoever. In fact, the tissue that is removed is actually vaporised in a “cold” process.

Patients who undergo this procedure can anticipate very mild discomfort during the procedure and superior attention from the beginning of our professional relationship to the end of recovery. Whilst we cannot guarantee that you won’t need glasses post-surgery, we can guarantee you our absolute best efforts to ensure that you get the best treatment available and receive optimal results.

The LASIK Process

Healing from LASIK is usually complete within 12 to 24 hours and stitches are unnecessary as the cornea will hold itself in place naturally. The recovery process for this particular process is extremely fast, but you should still anticipate resting for a day after the procedure by keeping your eyes closed for several hours, listening to some relaxing music, and you should refrain from driving for at least 24 hours. If there are no complications, patients will not need to be seen for 3 to 4 weeks after the epithelium (the flap cut in the eye) heals over. Prior to the healing of the epithelium, patients will need to be seen every day or every other day.

For a few weeks after the surgery, your vision may fluctuate. This is perfectly normal! Your brain has to adjust to your new vision just as much as you do. We will provide you with artificial drops that you should use on your eye(s) at least every couple of hours for the first weeks after surgery. Don’t be afraid to continuously apply them as we encourage frequent use to ensure a quick and satisfactory recovery.