Scheduling any type of surgery can be daunting. You never know what to expect, how long the recovery will be and whether the surgery will be successful or not.
If you are considering having LASIK surgery or if you are scheduled for one, you may have multiple questions or concerns related to before, during and after surgery. Here are a few common questions which have been answered that may help you understand this surgery better.
- How do I know if I am suitable for Lasik surgery?
The best way to find out if you are suitable for Lasik surgery is to go for a consultation where an ophthalmologist will examine your eyes. Without the consultation, you may have pre-existing eye-related problems that were never diagnosed, which could affect the success rate of the surgery. Find out if you are suitable by filling out this questionnaire and answer a few eye-related questions that will give an ophthalmologist a better understanding of your visual needs.
2. Is the surgery painful?
This is a common concern as many people relate surgery to pain. However, you have nothing to worry about. Before your surgery, numbing drops are inserted in the eye, which will mean that you will not feel any pain the entire duration of the surgery. You may feel some pressure on and around the eye during treatment, but this should not be painful at all. Patients can also request an oral medication to help with relaxation. Don’t worry – no needles or intravenous drugs are used.
3. Do I need to pay upfront for surgery?
Your eye specialist will be able to discuss payment options with you. iSurgeon has flexible payment options which may allow you to pay for surgery in three monthly installments. Contact iSurgeon and discuss a payment method that works for you.
4. Will I see results immediately?
Every patient is different and heals differently. Most patients see an immediate improvement straight after surgery. Do not be too worried if your vision is not 100% clear as the eye drop medication can cause some blurring afterwards. About 4 out of 5 patients are reported to have passed a driving test without requiring glasses or contact lenses after the treatment.
5. What does the recovery look like?
Immediately after surgery, the eye surgeon would place a clear, protective eye shield on the treated eye(s) which will be removed the following day. You will be required to wear them for a week longer at bedtime. Avoid swimming until about a week after surgery. You will continue to wear these eye shields at bedtime for 1 week for protection. Be sure to arrange for transport on the day of surgery as you will not be able to drive. Only drive when you are comfortable and confident of your visual acuity.
Laser surgery is quick, and the recovery does not take long at all. With a trusted eye specialist in Johannesburg, you can rest assured that you are in safe hands and will recover well. No more squinting your eyes or finding difficulty reading text, with LASIK surgery, your quality of life is instantly improved!
