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LASIK Eye Surgery: What To Expect Before, During, & After

There’s a reason LASIK is the most popular elective surgery in the world. When performed by a skilled ophthalmologist, this procedure can provide sharper, clearer vision without the hassle and expense of glasses or contact lenses.

At our ophthalmology locations in the Bronx, Queens, Manhattan, and Brooklyn, NY, we understand that patients considering LASIK eye surgery have a lot to consider. In this post, we’ll go over each step of the process to help you feel informed and excited. We’ll also provide some guidance on how to choose the best ophthalmologist for your needs.

Before: Making the Choice

Choosing LASIK

How can you tell if LASIK is right for you? Here are a few factors to consider per the FDA:

  • Age: LASIK is most often recommended for patients in their mid-20s or older, although it can be performed on patients as young as 18. Your vision is most stable between the ages of 25 and 40, so this is the ideal window for LASIK.
  • Prescription: If your prescription has changed within the last year, LASIK may not be the best option.
  • Nursing/pregnancy: Women who are pregnant or nursing are not good candidates since hormones can cause changes in vision. Women become eligible for LASIK 3 menstrual cycles after nursing has stopped.
  • Corneal thickness: Some corneas are too thin for the procedure. When you come in for an initial consultation, our doctors will measure yours to determine if you qualify.

Choosing an Ophthalmologist

When it comes to choosing an eye doctor to perform your LASIK procedure, it’s important to look for a few qualifications:

  • Board certification from the American Board of Ophthalmology
  • Experience performing LASIK using up-to-date techniques and technology
  • Excellent online reviews from real patients
  • Attentiveness to your specific needs and concerns

Learn more about how to choose an ophthalmologist in this blog post.

During: Your Surgery

How Bladeless LASIK Works

At the beginning of your bladeless LASIK procedure, your eye will be numbed with drops and held open with a lid speculum. Your ophthalmologist will use a femtosecond laser to create a small flap in your cornea. He or she will then lift this flap, reshape the cornea using precise measurements, and reseal the flap, placing a temporary shield over your eye for protection. Your surgeon will take great care to keep you comfortable and relaxed for the 30 or so minutes the procedure takes.

After: Recovery

Immediately After LASIK

After your surgery, you may experience some blurriness, sensitivity to light, and mild discomfort, which is typically well managed with pain relief medication. Most patients can see more clearly immediately after surgery, and most can see 20/20 within 24 hours.

Long-Term Checkups

Patients are typically cleared for most activities after 4 weeks, though vision can fluctuate for a few months. During this time, your doctor will see you for regular visits to closely track your recovery and make sure you are healing well.

Ready to Say Goodbye to Glasses?

At New York Ophthalmology, our priority is serving patients with the best possible care, from the use of advanced technology to the collaborative conversations we have with patients about their concerns and goals. Our qualified surgeons perform LASIK procedures on a regular basis and are excited about helping you get your best vision.

If you think LASIK may be right for you and would like to discuss your options, contact us using the online form or call us at 866-599-8774 to schedule an appointment at one of our 5 locations in Jamaica, Jackson Heights, the Bronx, Washington Heights, and Brooklyn.

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