If you're considering lasik eye surgery, you're not alone. Each year, thousands of people trade in their glasses and contacts for this procedure that can effectively eliminate the need for them. But, going into eye surgery without understanding what will be expected of you before, during and after the procedure isn't smart.

Lasik surgery is a pretty easy procedure, but it is still surgery nonetheless. You will need some assistance and you will need some time for recovery.

The key to successful surgery is not only your doctor's abilities, but also your willingness to follow procedure before and after the operation. Following doctor's orders can be a little difficult, but the pay off can be big.

Here are the basic things to expect and/or do before and after lasik eye surgery:

Before:

* You will not be allowed to wear contact lenses before evaluations and the surgery. Can you live without these for a while in hopes of being able to live without them for good?

* You will not be allowed to drive after screening procedures. Can you make arrangements?

* Do you understand the procedure? Make sure you ask your doctors questions, understand the ramifications and the chances for success. If you're not comfortable, talk with your doctor before you do the procedure.

* Remember, recovery is fast, but you will still have a few days you can count on being down. Can you arrange to take a few days off?

* If you wear makeup, plan on taking a day off in advance or perhaps two. You will not be allowed to wear it for at least 24 hours beforehand to help prevent infection.

* Have you met with your doctor to go over any last-minute questions? Are you comfortable?

After:

* Expect to not be able to see well for several days. You need to make arrangements for assistance where it's needed. Chances are you'll be back on your feet in no time, but little tasks that require sharp vision might be difficult to perform.

* Be ready to have to wear an eye shield to protect your eyes after having lasik eye surgery. It doesn't look pretty, but it's important to ensure you avoid injury right after the procedure.

* Do expect some pain and discomfort. The procedure for lasik eye surgery is almost pain free, but remember the word "almost" is in there.

* Lasik eye surgery will require you to take some medications and eye drops after the operation is done. If you can't put eye drops in yourself, make arrangements to have someone help you after the surgery.

The procedure involved in eye surgery is pretty straight-forward, but the more knowledge you arm yourself with in advance the better. The surgery isn't a 100-percent guarantee that you'll have perfect vision, but it does have a good track record of helping people have much better sight. The key to success, however, is not only your doctor's skill, but also your ability to follow instructions before and after the procedure.