Here's What to Expect After Your LASIK Surgery

Anyone considering LASIK surgery should understand what to expect both in the weeks leading up to surgery and after the procedure is completed. Below, board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Young H. Choi provides a brief overview of how to prepare for LASIK and what happens at each stage of recovery.

Call our office near Birmingham, AL for a consultation at Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center if you want to learn about this popular vision correction treatment. We offer a range of refractive surgery procedures to suit the unique needs of each patient.

How do you prepare for LASIK?

The first step in preparing for LASIK is to meet with an experienced eye care professional who will discuss your candidacy for the procedure. During this consultation near Birmingham, AL, Dr. Choi will conduct a thorough examination of your eyes to ensure they are healthy enough for LASIK and that you are likely to achieve the results you desire. We also review your corneal thickness to ensure that there are no contraindications to LASIK.

Here are a few ways to prepare for your LASIK consultation:

• Gather your medical records: You will need to provide Dr. Choi with a complete medical history, so be sure to bring along any relevant records, including information about previous eye surgeries or conditions.

• Prepare questions: You have the opportunity to ask Dr. Choi questions about LASIK and bring up concerns. You can also learn about our experience and credentials during this appointment.

• Choose a date for surgery: If you decide to move forward with LASIK, you will pick a date for your refractive surgery. Remember that an adult will need to drive you home after, so make these arrangements in advance.

What happens right after LASIK?

Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center uses the Zeiss VisuMax® Femtosecond Laser to ensure the highest degree of precision during LASIK surgery. Though this minimizes complications and reduces your time in recovery, it is still important to follow all of our post-operative instructions as given by Dr. Choi. These eye care guidelines will help you heal quickly and avoid complications.

Some LASIK patients experience side effects, like irritation or a stinging sensation, as the anesthetic wears off. Do your best to take a nap after surgery and avoid rubbing or touching your eyes. Your vision may be blurry or hazy, but this is normal and should gradually improve over the next day or so.

What about long-term LASIK recovery?

Most LASIK patients achieve their desired results within the first few days of surgery. However, it can take the corneas 7 – 14 days to heal and for your vision to stabilize completely. Avoid any activities that put unnecessary strain on your eyes and attend follow-up appointments with Dr. Choi as scheduled.

LASIK surgery does have a 96% success rate, which means most people experience clear vision right away. Our patients usually return to work and other activities within a short period. However, every patient is different, so be sure to discuss your expectations with Dr. Choi during your initial assessment.

Experience clear vision with LASIK

Refractive surgery can help you achieve clear vision and greatly reduce your dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Learn more about LASIK and other vision correction options by calling Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center near Birmingham, AL. Board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Young H. Choi and our experienced staff are dedicated to providing outstanding eye care from beginning to end.