Surgical laser equipment allows for precise repairs of eye conditions and abnormalities to improve your vision or reverse disease progression. The laser accurately reshapes and repairs your eye tissue to allow for lasting surgical results and a quick recovery. Understanding what to expect before, during and after the surgery will help you remain calm and stress-free throughout the process.
Surgical Consultation
You can seek surgical laser repairs after receiving a diagnosis of cataracts, glaucoma and other debilitating conditions affecting your eyes. Laser surgery is also routinely used to reshape the cornea to reverse nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.
You will need to attend a surgical consultation to discuss your diagnosis or vision abnormalities. At the consultation, you will undergo an eye exam and discuss the risks, benefits and recovery details for your particular eye surgery procedure.
Outpatient Procedure
The surgical eye repair procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. Your doctor will place numbing drops in your eyes and use a small metal device to hold open your eyelids. Throughout the procedure, you will usually feel pressure and discomfort, but you should alert your surgeon if you feel any acute pain.
Your surgeon will prepare your cornea by making a small incision and using suction to reveal the inner eye tissue. You will need to focus on the red light and keep your eyes steady while the laser performs the minute repairs. Upon completing the laser corrections, you will receive a small eye patch to wear for the first day and while sleeping for the following week.
Recovery Process
After having the procedure completed, you will be sent home with eye drops and antibiotics, as deemed necessary. You will need to use the drops and medications as instructed throughout the healing process.
Burning, itching, light sensitivity and pain are common sensations you might feel after the procedure. Avoid rubbing your eyes and shield them from excessive light exposure for at least two days. You may need to avoid using makeup and face creams for up to two weeks after the surgical date. You should notice a gradual improvement in your vision as your eyes heal from the surgery.
Follow Up Appointments
You will return to the eye doctor’s office about two to three days after the procedure for a recheck. Your surgeon will discuss your symptoms and perform a thorough examination to confirm your eyes are healing properly. During the exam, your surgeon will verify that the tissues are regenerating as expected without developing an infection. You will need to return every six months for additional rechecks to verify that the surgery was a success in reversing your symptoms or restoring your vision.