Laser Eye Surgery - Before Surgery
Last Updated on Monday, 21 December 2009 11:04
What to Expect Before Laser Eye Surgery
If you are interested in laser eye surgery, you'll first need an evaluation by an eye doctor who specializes in laser vision correction to see if you are a good candidate. Contact lenses effect the shape of the eye, so if you wear contacts, your doctor will tell you how long before this evaluation you'll need to stop wearing them. Typically, you'll need to stop wearing soft lenses about 2 weeks before your appointment. Gas permeable, torid and hard lenses require longer.
At your appointment, the doctor will perform a thorough eye exam, including checking your vision, measuring the diameter of your pupil and mapping your cornea. They will also ask you about your health history, including information about your general health, eye injuries and diseases and medication usage.
If you are a good candidate for laser eye surgery, your doctor will then tell you what you can expect as far as results from your surgery, as well as possible complications or alternative procedures. They will answer any questions you have, and if you decide to schedule surgery, they will review any instructions for before and after surgery, and have you sign a consent form.
The day before your surgery, you will need to stop using certain creams, lotions and makeup. You'll also need to make sure that you have transportation arranged for the day of your surgery and your follow up appointment the next day.
