LASIK 101: Caring for Your Eyes Before and After the Surgery

Alderwood Optical and Canyon Park Vision Clinic offer LASIK co-management services. Your optical care specialist at our office can evaluate whether you’re a good candidate for this procedure. We will also provide pre-operative advice and take care of your post-procedure needs to ensure a quick recovery.

Read on as we explain what to expect before and after the procedure:

LASIK Preparation

The first step is to help you understand the process. LASIK surgery involves using an excimer laser to create a flap on your cornea to access the underlying tissues that are causing your refractive error. The surgery concludes by putting the flap back in its original position.

After explaining how the procedure works, we’ll determine whether you’re a good candidate for it. You must be at least 18 years old to undergo this procedure. Your eye doctor will also need to confirm that your vision has remained stable for the past year, and will measure the thickness of your cornea. We will verify that you’re in good overall health as well.

We recommend that you stop wearing your contact lenses a few weeks before the procedure. You should arrange to have someone drive you home after the procedure, as your vision may be blurry. The day prior to your LASIK appointment, avoid putting on lotions, creams, makeup and perfume.

Post-LASIK Care

Your optometrist explains that symptoms similar to dry eye syndrome are common after LASIK surgery. Your eyes may become red, irritated and watery. We may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, pain relievers and eye drops for your better eye comfort. You’ll start noticing improvements in your visual acuity within a few days. In fact, most people can resume their usual activities a day or two after the procedure.

We may suggest wearing sunglasses for at least a week after you’ve had LASIK. During the recovery period, it’s also best to refrain from rubbing your eyes, swimming or participating in contact sports. Most importantly, remember to visit your eye care specialist for the follow-up appointments.

Call us today at (425) 771-8472 for Alderwood Optical or (425) 485-0430 for Canyon Park Vision Clinic to learn more about our LASIK co-management services. You may also complete our form to request an appointment. We serve Bothell. Lynnwood, Kenmore WA, and nearby areas.