What You Need To Know Before Your Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery has become a popular option for people looking to improve their vision. But before you make the decision to go under the laser, there are some things you need to know about the procedure. This article explores what you need to know before laser eye surgery.
Avoid Wearing Contact Lenses
Contact lenses are often seen as a convenient and aesthetically-pleasing alternative to glasses. However, if you're considering laser eye surgery, it's important to avoid wearing contact lenses in the weeks leading up to your surgery.
If you have to wear contacts due to an eye condition, be sure to mention this to your surgeon during your consultation. Depending on the type of lenses you wear, your surgeon can know the exact amount of time you'll need to avoid wearing them before surgery.
For instance, if you wear soft contact lenses, you'll need to avoid wearing them for at least two weeks prior to surgery. However, if you wear hard lenses, you may need to take a break from them for up to four weeks.
Keep in mind that wearing contacts can change your cornea's shape, leading to inaccurate measurements during your pre-surgery consultation. As a result, you may be at risk of undergoing an ineffective procedure.
You need to give your eyes a break from contacts before surgery so they can return to their natural shape. This way, your surgeon can get a more accurate idea of your cornea's natural shape and thickness.
By taking these measures, you can increase your chances of undergoing a successful laser eye surgery.
Get a Thorough Eye Exam
For most people, laser eye surgery is a very successful way to reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses or contact lenses. But as with any surgery, there are risks involved. That's why you need to have a comprehensive evaluation by a medical professional before deciding to have laser vision correction.
During the exam, the doctor can determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. You may not be a good candidate for laser eye surgery if you have certain medical conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune disease, or an uncontrolled thyroid condition. If your eyes are not healthy enough for laser surgery, the doctor may recommend an alternative vision correction option.
Even if you don't have any medical conditions that would make you an unsuitable candidate for laser eye surgery, you still need a thorough exam. That's because the doctor can check for other factors that could affect the success of your surgery. For instance, based on the characteristics of your eyes, the doctor may recommend a personalized treatment plan. This plan considers factors such as your refractive error, corneal thickness, and pupil size.
A thorough eye exam is essential to ensuring that laser eye surgery is safe and effective for you. So don't skip this important step just to save time or money. By getting a comprehensive evaluation, you can ensure that you make the best decision for your vision.