When facing any serious surgical procedure, the key to a successful outcome is thorough preparation. In addition to listening to your doctor and following his advice, you should educate yourself on the particular procedure you are having and take all appropriate steps to prepare for both the surgery and your recovery. It is no different when considering laser eye surgery.



The industry standard for this kind of surgery is known as LASIK, which stands for the very serious-sounding Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. It is, in fact, quite serious, as is any surgery on a major organ or system of the human body. However, the science is solid and the history of the procedure attests to its safety and effectiveness, so you should have no problems if you adhere to the five ways to prepare for LASIK surgery, before and after the surgery.

1. Educate yourself. Beyond the discussions with your doctor(s), you should avail yourself of the Internet or your local library and read up on the procedure. The more you know about the technology involved, as well as the anatomy of the eyes and the precise nature of the surgery, the less time and energy you will waste with needless worry.

2. Ask questions. Don't be shy. This is your eyesight at stake, so any concerns or questions that remain after studying up on the LASIK procedure should be voiced without reservation. It is crucial that you are comfortable with the procedure and fully trust in your doctor(s).

3. Follow instructions. If you wear contacts, you will be advised to leave them out for a certain period of time before the procedure. The shape of your eyes is changed by contacts, and they need to be in their natural shape, size and position at the time of the surgery. If there are any other dietary restrictions or preparations based on your specific condition, your doctor(s) will tell you, and you must follow the instructions to the letter.

4. Adjust your schedule. As with any surgery, you must allow time for recovery. You may have more or less post-operative pain than others, but in any event you will need rest after the procedure, and you will also have to allow some time for your vision to adjust and the blurriness to clear. Don't keep up your regular workload if it is going to interfere with your recovery. Make (and follow) a plan for taking some time off work and reducing your level of exertion and stress.

5. Watch yourself carefully. While the surgery has been performed for years on vast numbers of people, there is always some amount of risk. If your vision is not clearing up, or your pain does not diminish, or if there is any other problem whatsoever, do not hesitate to contact your doctor.

The technology of has advanced dramatically since the introduction of medical lasers. The great strides that have been made in laser eye surgery over the past few decades, along with reams of clinical evidence, conclusively establish that it is both safe and effective.

With proper preparation, and a positive attitude, the procedure should go smoothly and help you achieve the vision correction you desire.