So you've decided to have eye surgery. Whether you're having LASIK, cataract surgery, or another procedure, you're bound to have many questions about eye surgery preparation. Make sure to discuss details with your eye doctor and ask questions if there's something you don't understand. Here's some eye surgery preparation advice that will get you ready and have you looking forward to clearer vision.
Talk with Your Doctor
Make sure to tell your eye doctor about any past or present medical or eye problems or conditions. Make sure he has a list of any prescription and over-the-counter medications you are allergic to or are currently taking.
Lay Off Your Contact Lenses
According to the Mayo Clinic, if you're having a LASIK eye procedure, you'll need to stop wearing your contact lenses for a few weeks prior to surgery. Switch to wearing your glasses full time since contacts can distort the cornea's shape and lead to inaccurate measurements during your procedure.
Go Natural
Remove all traces of eye makeup on the day before your procedure along with eye creams, perfumes, and lotions. You will be able to use eye make up about 4 days after your procedure. It is advisable to start fresh by either deep cleaning or buying new makeup brushes and eye makeup. Eye makeup, and especially mascara and liquid eyeliner, create prime breeding grounds for bacteria.
Hitch a Ride
As the FDA notes, you won't be able to drive after your eye procedure, so make sure to arrange for someone to drive you to and from your surgery. Your vision will likely still be blurry right afterward, and you may still feel groggy. Your vision will improve buy the next morning, but you may also want to arrange for a ride to and from your first followup visit.
Take Medications as Directed
You may get a prescription pain or anti-anxiety medication to take at the clinic, before your procedure. If you take other medications, let your doctor know and ask whether you should take them that day, or when you can resume taking them.
Plan Some Time Off
You may wish to take at least a couple of days off work after your surgery to make sure your vision is clear and you feel recovered. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any unexpected pain or if blurriness, or if your eyes become increasingly itchy.
For questions or comments, contact Woodhams Eye Clinic.
