Immediately After Treatment
The treatment itself takes less than 10 minutes
although you can expect to be in the laser suite for
about 20 minutes. Immediately after treatment we apply
drops and a bandage contact lens for LASEK - just goggles
for LASIK.
Before leaving we provide you with a
supply of eye drops, which are to be taken as directed
in the immediate post-operative period. LASEK patients
can depart the clinic almost immediately after treatment.
LASIK patients remain at the clinic slightly longer
so that the surgeon can re-examine the eyes post-operatively.
LASIK patients are usually aware of a
slight grittiness for the first 24 hours after the treatment.
LASEK patients have more discomfort but this eases significantly
between 24-48 hours after treatment, please bear in
mind the discomfort will not last for long.
We advise you to go directly home, or
to the place where you are staying immediately after
leaving us, although you will not experience any pain
during the procedure, discomfort may begin after the
procedure. The best painkiller is to sleep - so if possible
go straight to bed for the remainder of the day. Tell
family and friends not to wake you.
The Following Days and Weeks
For LASIK: Most LASIK
patients have minimal dicomfort and rapid visual recovery,
giving a good standard of vision as early as the next
morning. You will be seen at the clinic the following
day, and then 1 week, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months,
or as directed by your optometrist.
For LASEK: For patients
who have had LASEK, the vision in the treated eye will
remain blurred for the first 48 hours or so. The vision
then improves but will take longer in higher prescription
treatments and patients over 35.
You are advised to re-attend for post
treatment check-ups at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months and
6 months after the treatment, or as directed by your
optometrist.
The importance of following the instructions
given regarding medication at these follow up appointments
cannot be stressed enough.
Eye Care
The following tips will help you retain healthy eyes:
• Please do not attempt to wear
your old contact lenses in your treated eye/s as this
may inhibit healing.
• Do not rub our eyes.
• If you work long hours in front
of a VDU screen, watch TV a lot or read a great deal,
take a few minutes every hour to relax your eyes by
looking out a window or into the distance.
• Wash hands before touching your
eyes or applying make-up.
Important
Your eyes will be extra light sensitive for 3-6
months following treatment. We strongly recommend
protection of your eyes with the use of a pair
of UV 400 blocking sunglasses during this period
of time.
Ask our staff
for information on our list of recommended sunglasses. |
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