Preparing for Laser Eye Surgery

Image of medical eye equipment.

Choosing laser eye surgery is a big decision. Whatever your treatment goal, proper preparation before surgery will help you obtain optimal results, speed up recovery, and minimize potential risks. If you've done your homework, then this advanced procedure can lead to a quick and healthy recovery. Here's a guide to how to prepare for your laser eye surgery.

Before the Initial Consultation

When it is determined that you are a good candidate for eye laser treatment, ask how you should prepare for the appointment. Your optometrist and the laser treatment clinic can offer valuable suggestions to help you obtain the best results. For instance, most optometry and laser surgery clinics ask that you refrain from wearing contact lenses for a few weeks because they can change the shape of your cornea, making it harder to accurately measure and evaluate your eyes and eyesight.

You may also want to bring a list of your current and past eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions, your overall health history including conditions such as diabetes, and any questions you have about the surgery or recovery. Sunglasses are recommended as your eyes may feel light sensitive after the evaluation tests.

Before the Surgery

Wear glasses rather than contact lenses for a few weeks. Makeup and lotions, especially those in the eye area, should be avoided for the days leading up to the surgery. Similarly, haircuts and hair treatments should be avoided as well.

Since the procedure uses a local anesthetic, there are few restrictions on what you may eat or drink before the surgery. The exception is alcohol, which should be avoided for 48 hours in advance to prevent the eyes from becoming dehydrated.

The Day of the Surgery

Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the clinic; you will not be able to drive or take public transportation. Don't use any hairspray, perfume or cologne; these may contain alcohol. Avoid wearing wool clothing; the lint can enter the eyes and cause infection. Take a shower before your surgery, since showering over the next days may be inconvenient.

With careful preparation, you can exert control over the outcome of your laser eye treatment. A few inconveniences before the procedure will pave the way for a lifetime of clear vision without the hassles of corrective lenses or other aids.

Sources:

Laser Surgery Eyes (2012). Preparing for Laser Eye Surgery.

Eye Health Web (2013). LASIK & Laser Eye Surgery.

Office Hours

Monday:

9:00 am-5:00 PM

Tuesday:

9:00 am-7:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-5:00 PM

Thursday:

9:00 am-7:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am-5:00 PM

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

  • "My whole experience was great. The entire staff was beyond friendly, helpful, and professional. Not to mention, the building itself was clean, spacious, and well kept. I recently switched to Herman Eye Center last year and I'm SO glad I did. Everyone just seemed so happy and cheerful!"
    Courtney, Scott Depot
  • "Dr. Herman was very knowledgeable and professional; the very best (excellent) in explaining his findings and corrective procedure. His office staff were very personable and helpful. Wish I had found them many, many years ago,, but I'm in excellent hands now and feel very comfortable about my future there."
    Jacqueline, Hurricane
  • "hello, i was a new patient , and i really enjoyed the family feeling you get when you are there. my doctor and staff are awesome, and they want to help you in any way they can.
    i would tell everyone i can how wonderful the company is. THANK YOU"
    Shawna, Winfield
  • "Great experience! I have been going to Dr. Herman for 7 years now. He is a great doctor. He is very friendly and takes the time to get to know his patents."
    Megan, Hamlin
  • "I am always impressed when they welcome me by name as I walk in the door, treat me like I am the only person in the room, move me swiftly from test to test and then am greeted with a smile and professional handshake by Dr. Travis. I walk away knowing that I have received an excellent exam and confident with the prescription. I have referred several people to Herman because they are the best I have ever experienced in the industry and I like to pass good news along to my friends."
    Brenda, Scott Depot
  • "Best optometrist in the valley. The staff are exceptional. I highly recommend and give them five stars"
    Timothy, Hurricane
  • "The staff is always very professional & pleasant. Dr. Herman has been very helpful throughout my years of being his patient. I would not consider seeing anyone else for my vision care. Every visit is a pleasure"
    anonymous
  • "Staff is always courteous and helpful"
    Peyton, Webster Springs
  • "Everyone was so friendly and knowledgeable. Dr. Herman was great! He actually took the time to talk and get to know me. A great first time experience at Herman Eye Center!"
    Angela, Hurricane
  • "I love the fact that dr herman took the time to talk to me and get to know me. That's how all doctor should be. Definitely will see him again"
    Jonathan, Scott Depot
  • "I just love Dr Travis and he is always professional with me and all my eye care needs."
    Sherry, from Leon