LASIK is an amazing procedure, but it’s still surgery on your eyes. Even though it’s a common procedure, it’s completely understandable to feel nervous about it.
Surgery of any kind can make anyone feel anxious. Fortunately, there are many resources to help you feel prepared and confident.
If those nerves are getting extra strong, don’t hesitate to talk to your surgeon. They understand and can discuss options to help you feel calm and ready for the amazing vision improvement LASIK can offer.
Is It Normal to Feel Anxious Before LASIK?
It’s completely normal to experience some anxiety before LASIK. It’s fast and remarkably safe, but it’s still eye surgery.
Feeling anxious makes sense, even if you know it’s a very successful treatment. For those with an intense fear of eye procedures, understand there are options. Your surgeon can discuss calming techniques or even sedation to make the experience less stressful.
How Can You Overcome LASIK Anxiety?
While feeling anxious is completely normal, there are ways to manage those nerves and feel more confident about your LASIK experience.
Here’s how to find your calm before the procedure:
- Talk with your surgeon. Be honest about your worries. They can explain the procedure in detail, answer any questions, and reassure you that your safety is their priority.
- Learn as much as you can. Read reliable sources, watch videos, and understand the steps to feel secure going into the procedure.
- Breathe and relax. Practice deep breathing, meditation, or other relaxation techniques to manage anxious feelings.
- Bring support with you. Ask a friend or family member to accompany you on surgery day. Having someone you trust nearby can be incredibly comforting.
Feeling some anxiety before LASIK is normal. By using these strategies, you can approach your procedure with more confidence and less stress.
What Happens During LASIK Surgery?
Now that we’ve talked about why LASIK anxiety is normal and how to manage it let’s dive into the procedure itself.
Here’s what you can expect during your LASIK surgery:
Before the Procedure
Before your LASIK procedure, your eye doctor will conduct a thorough eye exam to confirm that LASIK is the right option for you. This exam will also include precise measurements of your eyes.
In preparation for the surgery, you’ll need to stop wearing contact lenses for a period of time beforehand. This allows your eyes to return to their natural shape.
During the Procedure
Here’s what you can expect during the actual procedure:
- Your surgeon will put special drops in your eyes to ensure you don’t feel any pain.
- A gentle device will hold your eyelids open, so you don’t need to worry about blinking.
- Your surgeon will create a very thin flap on the outer layer of your cornea (the clear front part of your eye). They can use a special tool or a laser for this step.
- Your vision will be a bit dim momentarily, but that’s normal.
- The laser will reshape the inside of your cornea based on your eye’s exact needs. You’ll just need to keep your eyes focused on a small light.
- Your surgeon will carefully put the flap back in place. It will heal naturally with no stitches needed.
After the Procedure
The hard part is over, but some people also tend to feel anxious about LASIK’s recovery time. Knowing what to expect helps.
Once you’re out of surgery, your vision may be a little blurry. This clears up quickly for most people.
You’ll need to rest your eyes and avoid anything too strenuous for a bit. During recovery, you’ll have regular check-up appointments with your doctor. They’ll make sure your eyes are healing well.
Can You Take Anxiety Medication Before LASIK?
Your surgeon can prescribe some anti-anxiety medications to help you during the procedure. Diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam (Xanax) are common medications that help calm people.
These are typically taken 30 minutes before LASIK to help you feel calm and relaxed during the procedure. Depending on your specific needs, your surgeon may suggest other anti-anxiety medications.
Always discuss any anxiety and potential medications with your surgeon beforehand. They’ll choose the best option for you and answer all your questions.
What Should You Expect During LASIK Recovery?
Understanding the steps of LASIK and how to manage any pre-procedure anxiety helps you feel ready for the amazing vision improvement it offers. But what happens after surgery?
Here’s what to expect during your LASIK recovery:
| Right after surgery (24 to 48 hours) | Wearing eye shields, blurry vision for a day or two, some light sensitivity, scratchy or watery eyes |
| The first week | Use eye drops as prescribed, no makeup, and avoid soap and water from entering your eyes |
| The first two months | Gradually resume exercise, wear eye protection during sports, avoid swimming in pools and hot tubs |
You can expect your vision to keep getting sharper for 3-6 months. Wear sunglasses outdoors for at least a year to prevent sun sensitivity.
Following up with your doctor is key to a successful recovery. The first checkup is usually scheduled within a day or two after your LASIK procedure.
Your surgeon will schedule follow-ups over several months to ensure you’re healing well. Contact your doctor right away if you have:
- Severe pain
- Sudden vision loss
- Eye redness or discharge
Success Rates and Positive Outcomes of LASIK
LASIK has a strong track record of success. The majority of people achieve excellent vision improvement, and satisfaction rates are high. For more detailed information, you can visit LASIK Success Rates.
Remember, your surgeon and the whole care team want to help you have a calm and successful LASIK experience. Taking steps to prepare and working with your surgeon helps ensure the best possible experience and long-term success.
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