Preparing for LASIK SurgeryBefore LASIK Surgery Smithtown
The experienced vision specialists at North Shore Eye Care are dedicated to helping patients feel safe, comfortable, and confident throughout every stage of their LASIK experience, including before and after surgery. While the actual surgery can take as little as fifteen minutes, appointments before LASIK surgery at our Smithtown and Riverhead locations are an important part of the LASIK process. During pre-surgery consultations, our surgeons will thoroughly examine your eyes and evaluate your vision, provide instructions on how to prepare for surgery, and address any questions or concerns that you might have about the procedure. Following the recommendations of our LASIK specialists is the best way to ensure a speedy recovery and the best possible long-term results. If you have questions regarding LASIK surgery, we encourage you to contact our Long Island-area practice.
The Initial Eye Examination
During your preliminary consultation, our physicians will thoroughly examine your eyes and review your medical history. It is important that you disclose any past medical or eye conditions. Using a corneal topography test and a pachymetry test, they will measure the shape and thickness of your corneas to determine whether you are a good candidate for LASIK or would be better suited to an advanced surface ablation procedure. If you wear contacts, it is important that you stop wearing them two weeks before your LASIK evaluation because contacts can alter the shape of the cornea, resulting in inaccurate corneal mapping, which can negatively affect the outcome of your procedure. It is also important that you not wear contacts at least three weeks prior to undergoing LASIK surgery, as well.
The Day before LASIK Surgery
Prior to the day of your surgery, your surgeon will prescribe anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops. When used as directed, these drops will help to ensure that your eyes are free from infection and irritation at the time of your surgery. In addition, it is important that you stop using makeup, creams, lotions, and perfumes as these can be absorbed by the eye and lead to discomfort or complications during the LASIK procedure. It is also important that you arrange adequate post-operative care. Patients who undergo LASIK surgery at our Smithtown location can recover afterward in our LASIK suite. All patients who undergo surgery should arrange a ride home, and plan only light activities for the days after the procedure. While most patients experience clear vision within 24 hours, some blurriness and glaring may occur.
Arriving for Surgery
On the day of your LASIK surgery, it is important that you eat a light meal and take any medications prescribed by Drs. Martin or Zweibel as directed. When you arrive for surgery, you will meet with your LASIK surgeon who will address any additional concerns you may have before beginning the LASIK procedure at our Smithtown or Riverhead location. A mild sedative will be administered to help you relax during the procedure, the effects of which typically last less than a half-hour.
Contact North Shore Eye Care Today
The doctors and staff at North Shore Eye Care are trained professionals who take pride in providing patients with the gift of clear, precise vision. The best way to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the LASIK procedure is to follow the instructions of Drs. Martin and Zweibel before LASIK surgery. Learn more about LASIK surgery and its benefits by contacting our Riverhead or Smithtown office location to schedule a complimentary LASIK consultation.
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