Most Commonly Asked Questions About Laser Eye Surgery
Insight Eye Clinic perform laser eye surgery or ocular surgery, which is a refractive surgery on your eyes to correct astigmatism, hyperopia, and myopia. As straightforward as it is for those performing it, it can be a big decision to make for someone who is thinking about getting it.
If you’re unsure whether laser eye surgery is for you or you’re about to visit a clinic to find out more, here are some of the questions you may like to have the answers to beforehand.
Does Laser Eye Surgery Hurt?
This is perhaps one of the most commonly asked questions about laser eye surgery – whether or not it hurts. The procedure itself is mostly pain-free because anaesthetic drops are given to the patient before the procedure.
However, in the early stages of healing post-surgery, some people do experience some discomfort. The level of pain you experience can also depend on the type of surgery. Most people will be able to enjoy their new, pain-free eyesight in a matter of days.
How Long Does Laser Eye Surgery Take?
No one wants to be sitting in a surgical environment for any longer than they have to. Therefore, it’s only natural to want to find out how long laser eye surgery takes. The timeframe can depend on the severity of the issue, the prescription’s complexity, and a few other factors like technology and the surgeon.
In most cases, you will be in and out of surgery in half an hour or less. The actual procedure may also only take mere minutes.
When Will I Notice Results?
After struggling with your eyesight or eye health for a long time, you’re probably in a hurry to see results. That’s only natural. Typically, most patients who have received the surgery notice a difference in their vision within 24 hours.
Although, this can depend on which treatment you have undergone. By the end of your recovery period, you will likely notice a significant difference.
Can I Drive After Laser Eye Surgery?
Any surgery involves a recovery period, and laser eye surgery is no different. Immediately after your surgery, your surgeon will carry out a post-op eye exam to determine the surgery’s success.
You will not be able to drive yourself home and will likely not be able to until your follow-up visit. Typically, this is within 1-2 days of your surgery. Your surgeon must ensure that your vision is at the legal standard for driving before giving you the all-clear.
What’s Involved in the Recovery Period?
Alongside not being able to drive for a short period, you may be encouraged to take a couple of days off work or other activities to recover. Avoid wearing eye makeup and exercising during this recovery period.
Your doctor will also prescribe eye drops and, sometimes, artificial tears to speed up the healing process and fight infections and dry eye syndrome. It’s also important to note that if you notice a spot of blood on the white of your eye, called a subconjunctival haemorrhage, it’s normal and can take up to two weeks to heal.
If you experience any pain, discomfort, or anything not spoken about with your eye surgeon, contact them for advice.
Laser eye surgery is a popular form of treatment for people with nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. If you have been considering this form of treatment, it can be worth making an important with an eye specialist to find out more.