Laser eye surgery is not painful. Patients usually stay awake during the procedure. The surgery is performed to correct eye problems like astigmatism, nearsightedness and farsightedness. The surgery is very short and takes less than 30 minutes; the majority of patients stay awake during the process. Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, often known as LASIK, is the procedure that surgeons mostly perform. It’s unlikely for one to feel discomfort in the eyes during the surgery.
Procedure of the laser eye surgery
- Right before the procedure, your surgeon puts drops of anaesthesia in your eyes to numb them.
- Your surgeon will then cut out a flap in your cornea, which is the outer layer of your eye.
- A laser will be used to shape your eyes.
- After the surgery, you may experience burning, itching or have a feeling like there’s something in your eyes.
- A protective shield is given to you so that you don’t rub or touch your eyes by accident. With the help of the shield, you will not put as much pressure on your eyes when you sleep.
- Some people experience pain and discomfort when the anaesthesia wears off.
The potential complications one may experience after the laser surgery
- Experiencing severe pain after a laser surgery is not normal because it indicates nerve damage or infection.
- If you experience discharge, discolouration, redness around your eyes and your vision worsens, then you should contact your doctor.
- After having laser surgery, most people experience dry eyes, which are associated with itchiness and affect clarity.
- Your vision may change, it can either become blurry or you start to see rings or starbursts when looking at lights.
- Some people experience infections after getting their laser surgery done.
Post-surgery eye care
- Wear protective shields for the first few nights while sleeping.
- It is important to schedule an appointment with your doctor two days after your surgery is performed.
- It’s important to use your eye drops as prescribed by your doctor.
- Getting a lot of rest is necessary for your recovery.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and goggles when in dusty spaces.
- Do not rub your eyes after the surgery.
- It’s important not to drive at night for about 30 days after your surgery.
- Playing contact sports like boxing and football is not allowed for about a month. It is possible for your doctor to extend the time.
- Do not use creams, makeup or lotion for about 2 weeks.
- Avoid swimming or using a hot tub for almost 2 months.
- Avoid spending time in smoky and dusty areas.
Conclusion
At Mitra Eye & Laser Lasik Hospital, we focus on giving patients the best eye treatment. Our hospital is the largest eye care hospital in Phagwara. We provide treatment for all age groups and believe that eye care should be accessible to everyone. Dr Harinder Mitra and his team provide the best and most advanced eye care to patients. Consult with us today, and we’ll help you improve your eyesight.
Questions frequently asked
Question 1: How long does it take for me to start seeing clearly after the surgery?
A: It takes a few days or weeks to completely see a change in your eyesight, but some people take a few hours.
Question 2: Are the results long-lasting?
A: Yes, the results from laser surgery are long-lasting, but ageing usually affects your eyesight.
Question 3: What are the major risks of getting laser eye surgery?
A: The risks of getting laser eye surgery are rare but could include infections and dry eyes.