Modern advancements in technology have made LASIK vision correction surgery at Providence Eye & Laser Specialists a safe, predictable and comfortable experience. We are committed to providing you with detailed pre-op instructions, both verbally and in writing, and you are always welcome to call us with your questions. Follow our helpful tips when preparing for LASIK to ensure your eye surgery goes smoothly.
A few weeks prior to your LASIK surgery, you will need to swap out your contacts for glasses. This is required, since contact lenses tend to restrict oxygen flow to your cornea, which can potentially cause corneal swelling. If this swelling occurs, it can create inaccuracies in the measurements taken of your eyes before LASIK surgery. Because of these risks, you will be given specific instructions based on your contacts and how you have worn them. For most patients, the following instructions are given:
Please read the informed consent provided to you. You will be asked to sign an electronic copy of this document prior to your LASIK procedure.
In preparing for LASIK surgery, keep in mind exactly how you will pay. Full payment must be made on or before your procedure day. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, bank checks, FSA & HSA accounts. If you plan on using CareCredit or Wells Fargo financing, you must have approval prior to your procedure day.
In the pocket folder provided to you at the conclusion of your consultation, you will find the document "Preparing for Your Treatment Day." Here you will find details about your eye drops. You will be contacted by our surgical coordinator the week of your LASIK vision correction procedure and she will review all of the instructions about your drops.
One day before LASIK surgery, begin eye drops as prescribed and as you discussed with our surgical coordinator.
On the day of your LASIK procedure, please bring these drops with you. In addition to your prescription eye drops, you will also be given instructions to use preservative free lubricating drops regularly. Specific brands will be recommended.
Do not use makeup, perfume, lotions, cologne or aftershave the day of your LASIK vision correction procedure. This is important, as we don’t want to risk any particles from these products going into your eye during the surgery.
Wear warm, layered clothing and closed-toe shoes. Do not wear sandals or flip-flops. Make sure your clothing is something you would feel comfortable sleeping in so you will not need to change clothes to go to sleep once you return home.
Since you will not be able to drive right after your LASIK vision correction surgery, make sure to bring a friend or family member along to drive you home.
Shortly before you arrive at your LASIK procedure, eat a light snack or a small meal that will keep you comfortable throughout your LASIK surgery.
You will need to rest after your LASIK vision correction surgery. Thus, it is best to avoid caffeine or any sugary food or drink that will make it difficult for you to sleep after the surgery. Drinking water is best to keep your eyes moist, which will ensure that your eyes are comfortable after treatment.
Bring all your eye drops, including the over the counter preservative-free lubricating drops with you on the day of your LASIK vision correction surgery.
