Frequently Asked Questions: Part Five

We continue our popular series covering some of the most commonly asked questions about laser vision correction.

It’s often hard to separate fact from fiction, so in part five of this series we break down the top questions and answers about LASIK, SMILE, and PRK!

How do I choose the right LASIK doctor?

Choosing the right surgeon to correct your vision is a personal decision. That’s why it’s so important to us that Dr. Haddad is involved with pre-operative checks, in addition to performing procedures. But whether you choose to have your LASIK performed by Dr. Haddad or by another surgeon, the important thing is that your surgeon listens to your concerns. They must be willing to discuss the pros and cons of your procedure type, and tell you what your expected recovery will be like. They should be a member of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, and a board-certified ophthalmologist. These are all indicators that the surgeon meets the requirements of not only technical proficiency to perform your procedure, but also the compassion that you’ll need when you’re nervous and excited on the big day.

What is LASIK postoperative recovery like?

Exactly what your recovery looks like will depend on what type of procedure or procedures you have—recovery from LASIK will be a little different from SMILE, and an little different from LASEK. For most patients who have LASIK, the most popular option, recovery is very quick! You’ll be able to resume most of your regular activities within a day or two. We’ll give you detailed instructions to follow when you’re taking eye drops following your procedure to make sure the healing process remains on schedule. A bit of extra tearing up—especially the day you have your procedure—is totally normal. Typically, your eyes will feel scratchy for a day or two, gradually becoming less sensitized. The initial healing stages are usually complete in a week, though it may take 3-6 months (or more) for the total healing process, during which your eyesight will likely improve.

What happens if I accidentally rub my eyes after LASIK eye surgery?

We’ll make sure to give you some stylish eye shields to wear while you sleep (if you have LASIK), to prevent you from moving your corneal flap during the first few nights after your procedure. Since you flap will still be in its initial healing phase, we want you to be gentle with it! If you do rub your eyes by accident, let us know, and we’ll have the doctor make sure everything is okay.

What happens if I’m one of the few with LASIK complications?

There is a big difference between normal healing symptoms and complications from laser vision correction. While you’re healing, you may notice that you’re more sensitive to light, and have drier eyes than normal. These symptoms do not occur for everyone, or even a majority of patients, and are usually temporary. They can be managed with medications or additional nonsurgical treatment options.

According to clinical data, you are far more likely to receive an eye infection from contact lens use than from laser vision correction. LASIK has never been the primary, exclusive cause of blindness, according to the ASCRS!

Rest assured we have your best interest in mind every step of the way on your journey to awesome vision. We want you to be 20/Happy!