Do's and Dont's: How to Prepare for Laser Eye Surgery

The idea of using lasers for eye surgery is not at all new since the technology has already been adopted to treat muscle pain, bone disorders, and even dental problems. Laser-Assisted in situ Keratomileusis or LASIK uses “cold” lasers that do not inflict damage on human tissue, much less on the eyes. However, even a harmless procedure such as this one requires some careful preparation on the part of the patient.

Well before the initial eye examination, patients must avoid wearing contact lenses that alter the shape of the cornea. The purpose of LASIK is, after all, to reshape the cornea, so rendering it in a semi-corrected state beforehand can lead to less desirable surgical results. To ensure that your cornea is in its natural shape on the day of the surgery, you'll need to avoid wearing contact lenses for 2 to 4 weeks, and switch to corrective glasses for the interim.

As with any medical procedure, the FDA advises against applying perfumes, lotions, and make-up on the day of the surgery. This should reduce the risk of debris and particulates accumulating in your eyes. Aside from observing the necessary precautions, you must also be forthcoming about any other health problems. For instance, if you have extremely sensitive skin, then this procedure may not be for you.