Millions of people choose to get laser vision correction to enjoy clear vision. Laser eye surgery can improve your vision, letting you stop wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses. Vision correction procedures can treat myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia.
There are various vision correction procedures, with LASIK being the most common. Getting surgery is a huge decision, and you should prepare before the procedure. Here's how to prepare for a vision correction procedure.
If you wear contacts, stop wearing them several days or weeks before the procedure. Some contact lenses change the cornea shape, which can affect the vision correction results. Your eye doctor will inform you when to switch to eyeglasses.
If you wear hard or rigid contact lenses, you may need to stop wearing them two months before the surgery. For soft contacts, you can stop wearing them a few days before the procedure. The time will vary for individuals.
You will need someone to drive you home after the procedure. Make transport arrangements before the surgery. Doctors apply numbing eye drops before the procedure. Your vision is likely to be blurry after the vision correction. You may experience the effects of relaxation medications for several hours after surgery.
Do not wear eye makeup, heavy lotions, or perfumes on the day of vision correction surgery. You should also avoid using eye creams the night before and on the day of the procedure. Ensure your face is clean and devoid of any contaminants. Avoid face or hand lotions that leave your skin greasy. It will prevent grease from accidentally getting in your eyes.
Choose clothing that is comfortable on the day of surgery. Wear loose clothes that are easy to take off when you return home. Do not wear clothing with loose fibers or any material that sheds or produces lint. It will ensure you keep contaminants away from the operating room and your eyes. The procedure must be in an environment that is safe and sterile.
As with most surgeries, ensure you drink more water before the procedure unless otherwise directed. Increasing your water intake will prevent dehydration and boost the healing process. Temporary dry eye is a common side effect of vision correction surgery. Water will help keep your eyes well-lubricated. You should, however, avoid alcohol and caffeine.
You do not need to fast before vision correction surgery; you can eat as usual. However, you may need to stop using certain medications before the procedure. Avoid alcohol and anything that can cause drowsiness. During the consultation, the doctor will provide directions on what to do before surgery.
Arrive early and leave plenty of time to fill out paperwork before the procedure. Your surgeon will inform you when to arrive on the day of surgery. Read through the paperwork and get clarification on any questions you may have. Being prepared will ensure you enjoy lasting results. Your eye doctor can help determine if vision correction surgery is right for you.
For more on how to prepare for a vision correction procedure, visit Clarity Vision at our office in Clayton, North Carolina. Call (919) 550-4801 to book an appointment today.