Tips for Successful Lasik Surgery

Lasik surgery is a relatively new procedure that uses lasers to correct a patient’s vision. And while most people experience a good outcome from having the surgery, there are things to avoid if you’re preparing yourself for Lasik. Proper preparation ensures the best possible outcome.

Post-operative care instructions: Whatever you do, don’t ignore your doctor’s instructions before the surgery. Make sure you make, and keep, appointments for your post-operative care with the surgeon who performed the operation or with another eye care specialist. These appointments help the doctor gauge the rate of healing and allow him to catch any problems before they become severe.

Make arrangements for transportation: After having Lasik surgery, you will not be able to drive a vehicle, so it’s vital that you have someone who is able to drive you home. In addition, most doctors recommend that patients take a few days off work to recover from the surgery.

Don’t wear creams or cologne: While some Lasik centers differ on this policy, it’s still a good idea not to take any chances, especially when it comes to your eyes. As a general rule, don’t wear any facial creams and even make up or eyeliner for three days prior to having the surgery. (Hey, some guys are into this stuff, but we’re not here to judge).

This is done to prevent contaminants from getting in the eye during the surgery, which increases the chance that you’ll develop an infection. Cologne and perfume are also off the list as is any hair product that contains alcohol since they can negatively alter the outcome of the Lasik surgery.

Don’t expect perfect vision after the procedure: Most people who have Lasik surgery are more than happy with the results, but it’s unrealistic to expect perfect vision even though some Lasik advertisements claim otherwise. A 20/40 outcome with the Lasik surgery seems to be the norm and will still require you to wear glasses or contacts part of the time, or at a reduced prescription.

If you’re considering Lasik, you’ll do well to talk to others about their results so you won’t be setting yourself up for disappointment.

Don’t ignore the risks involved with Lasik: Statistically Lasik is a very safe procedure with the majority of patients experiencing little, if any, complications. As with any surgical procedure, however, there are risks involved with Lasik.

Before going under the laser you’ll want to have a thorough eye exam. This helps to eliminate people who might otherwise have an unfavorable outcome. Also, if you suffer from eye disease or an autoimmune disease Lasik should not be considered because you run the risk of severe infection or permanent damage to your vision.

You should also know that, in some cases, re-treatment or enhancements are necessary to get the best possible outcome and will probably cost extra. And there are those rare cases where vision is actually worse even after re-treatment.

Lasik is often marketed as a miracle for correcting poor vision, and in most cases, it’s just that. But, if you want a successful outcome to your Lasik procedure, it’s vital that you discuss the operation, the risks and the expected results with your surgeon before you sign the consent forms.