Dr. Schneider: Did you know it takes less than 15 minutes to have LASIK surgery done on both eyes? This in-office procedure is minimally invasive and is performed while the patient is awake and mobile. You may be asking yourself; what exactly can I expect the day of surgery?
First, you’ll be given a mild sedative. You’ll be placed in a comfortable chair to position you under the laser. Next, the surgeon will use topical eye drops to numb the eyes and prepare them for surgery. During this step, you won’t feel any pain, but there will be a short sensation of pressure. Finally, the doctor will perform the surgery, and after a short resting period, you’ll be cleared to go home. Of course, you’ll want to have a family member or friend available to drive you home after being sedated.
Also, while most patients don’t experience any pain or discomfort, it’s perfectly normal to feel a stinging, burning sensation for a couple of hours after the surgery. You can minimize this irritation by taking a nap after the procedure. One last thing; you may be tempted to rub your eyes, don’t do it. Most surgeons recommend that you avoid rubbing your eyes for at least one month after surgery; this will help to ensure that your eyes heal properly.
Announcer: This information has been provided by Dr. Mark Schneider.