How long does LASIK take?
Initial Screening Before LASIK: How Long is LASIK Surgery
At this stage, a specialist will conduct a Screening to ascertain whether or not you are a suitable candidate for LASIK. There are a few things to heed before the Screening, such as:
- Cease wearing contacts
If you wear contacts, whether hard or soft, you must cease using them at least two weeks prior to your Screening. This is because contacts cause irregular corneal shapes, and this fact can affect the accuracy and safety of the procedure. - Be upfront about your medical history
You must inform your doctor if you:- have adverse medical history relating to diseases of the eye
- are taking any medication
- have adverse medical history relating to allergies of medication
- Follow your doctor’s instructions
- They will discuss if you are a suitable candidate
- They will outline the potential risks, benefits and alternatives relating to the specific condition of your eyes
- They will discuss with you what your hopes are for the procedure’s outcome.
Preparation Before LASIK: How Long is LASIK Surgery
After the doctor verify that you are a suitable candidate for LASIK surgery, there are a number of things that need to be considered and prepared, such as:
- Transport Arrangements
You need to arrange for transportation to and fro Ciputra SMG Eye Clinic, it is not recommended to ride a motorcycle, take public transportation that is open or drive yourself after surgery. - Must Not Use Makeup or Fragrances
On the day of the operation, prior to the operation you must not use:- Cream
- Lotion
- Makeup
- Perfumes or cosmetics that contain other deodorisers
Why? Cosmetic products can remove the particles along the eyelashes so that it can increase the risk of infection during and after surgery. The doctor will advise you to clean your face and the area around your eyes so that the makeup beads don’t interfere during surgery.
During Surgery: How Long is LASIK Surgery
After the doctor certifies that you are fit for LASIK, then there are a few things you must take into account, namely:
After Surgery: How Long is LASIK Surgery
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- Transportation
You must provide your own transportation to and from Ciputra SMG Eye Clinic. We do not recommend riding in or on a motorcycle, an angkot (public minibus) or driving yourself after the operation. And also, you need to have one acompany beofre and after surgey. - Cessation of Usage of Make-up or Perfume
On the day of the procedure, you MUST refrain from using:- Creams
- Lotions
- Make-up
- Perfume
- Any other cosmetics that contain perfume
- Transportation
As they increase your risk of infection during and after the operation. The doctor will advise you to clean your face, especially the area around your eyes, so that this will not occur.
During the Operation
The procedure will last from anywhere between 15 and 30 minutes for both eyes. You will be lying on an operating table, equipped with a comprehensive laser system. This procedure is generally painless, because of the topical anesthetic deployed prior to the operation. Nevertheless, there may be a slight discomfort on the eyes.
During the procedure, you are to stay still and face the laser beam directly above you, so that it may maintain an unbroken connection with your eyes.
Your doctor will prepare everything before the operation begins. A suction ring will be attached to your eyes, and your vision may black out for less than 25 seconds. Whilst the procedure is on the go with one eye, you will be able to see out the other eye.
Focus on the blinking light within the eye. You will smell some burning during the laser procedure. When the procedure is concluded, you are advised to rest in the recuperation room for about 10 to 15 minutes. After you are completely healed, the doctor will examine your eyes with a slit lamp before you will be authorized to return home.
Several Months After the Surgery: How Long is LASIK Surgery
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- The State of Your Eyes
Your eyes will feel sandy, watery and uncomfortable for the first five hours following the procedure. Medication may be prescribed to relieve the discomfort. - Rest
You must rest after the procedure on the day you undergo it, and for the day immediately following. You may return to your normal routine on day 2 or day 3. - Control Sessions
You must attend a control session with a specialist one day after the procedure to ascertain the condition of your eyes. We recommend you use sunglasses for your own protection, if you are sensitive to the sun. - Eyeshield
You will be issued a transparent eyeshield. We do not recommend driving after the procedure. - Recovery of the Eye
You will be able to see clearly without the help of glasses/contacts the day after the procedure after waking up. Your vision will gradually improve over the following couple of days. - Other Remarks
You may travel by plane 3 to 5 days after the procedure. We recommend staying away from dusty/dirty places for a week. - Prohibitions
Do not rub your eyes for the first two weeks after the procedure. Do not engage in heavy/contact sports e.g. boxing, soccer, karate, swimming, et cetera for one month after the procedure.
- The State of Your Eyes
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A Few Months After The Operation
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- Sharpness of Vision
The sharpness of your vision will vary. This is normal and part of the healing process. It will begin to stabilize after a few months. This varies with each individual, and depends on the condition of their eyes. The rule of thumb is the worse the refractive condition, the longer it will take to recover. - Dryness of the Eye
You will feel dryness in your eye for a few months after the procedure. You are advised to use eye drops to reduce discomfort. - Sensitivity to Light
You may experience sensitivity to light at night, in such forms as halos or starbursts. This will last from 6 to 12 months after the procedure.
- Sharpness of Vision
That’s what’s going to be on the go before, during, and after the procedure. We trust that this has been an informative article, and hope to see you at Ciputra SMG Eye Clinic for your consultation.
