Deciding to have LASIK surgery is a significant step toward visual freedom. Understanding what happens from your first consultation to full recovery helps you prepare for the journey ahead. Here’s a complete walkthrough of the LASIK process and what you can expect at each stage.
Table of Contents
Step 1: The Initial Consultation
Your LASIK journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. This appointment goes far beyond a standard eye exam. Your surgeon will perform several diagnostic tests to evaluate your candidacy for the procedure.
During the consultation, your eye doctor will review your medical history and current medications. You’ll undergo a detailed eye examination that includes measuring your visual acuity, checking eye pressure, and examining eye structures. Advanced diagnostic tools map your cornea’s shape and thickness, which is essential for planning safe treatment.
Corneal topography creates a detailed map of your eye’s surface. This information programs the treatment laser for your specific needs. Your doctor will also test your tear film to check for dryness that might affect healing.
The consultation includes a discussion of surgery details, possible risks, benefits, and costs. You’ll have time to ask questions and address concerns. At the end, your doctor determines if you’re a suitable candidate for LASIK.
Step 2: Pre-Surgery Preparation
Once you’re cleared for surgery, you’ll receive specific instructions to follow before your procedure. If you wear contact lenses, you’ll need to stop wearing them for a period before surgery. This allows your cornea to return to its natural shape.
Your surgeon will explain what to expect on surgery day. You’ll arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as your vision will be blurry immediately following treatment.
Step 3: The Day of Surgery
LASIK surgery is remarkably quick. The entire procedure takes about 15 to 20 minutes for both eyes. You’ll be awake during the procedure, but numbing drops make it pain-free.
The process begins with eye preparation. Your surgeon applies numbing drops and places an eyelid holder to prevent blinking. A femtosecond laser creates a thin flap in your cornea. This is the most crucial step and affects the visual outcome.
Next, the surgeon folds back the flap to access inner corneal tissues. An excimer laser reshapes your cornea to correct your vision. The laser removes microscopic layers and smooths irregularities based on your unique prescription.
Finally, the flap is repositioned over the cornea. The edges are smoothed, and healing begins immediately. Many patients notice improved vision right away.
Step 4: Immediate Recovery
Most patients experience a dramatic improvement in vision the same day. However, some blurriness is expected for the first one to two days. You’ll need to rest your eyes and avoid screens and reading during the first 24 hours.
Your doctor will provide eye shields to wear while sleeping. Keep water and soap out of your eyes during initial healing. You may receive eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
Step 5: Follow-Up Appointments
Your first follow-up appointment occurs 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Your doctor checks your healing progress and vision improvement. They’ll assess if any alterations to your care plan are needed.
Additional appointments typically occur at three to four weeks, three months, and 12 months after treatment. These visits involve tests to check your visual outcomes and ensure smooth recovery.
Step 6: Complete Healing
While many patients return to normal activities within two days, complete refractive stabilization may take up to three months. Side effects like dry eyes and glare typically resolve within six months.
Follow all post-operative care instructions carefully. Attend every follow-up appointment to ensure optimal results.
Take Your First Step Toward Clear Vision
Ready to begin your LASIK journey? The first step is scheduling a comprehensive consultation with an experienced doctor. Dr. Eduardo Besser ophthalmologist offers personalized care and uses state-of-the-art technology for customized, all-laser LASIK procedures. He is a renowned Los Angeles LASIK specialist and also one of the top cataract surgeons in Los Angeles
Contact Dr. Besser’s office to schedule your consultation. Discover if LASIK is right for you and start your path to visual freedom.