Are you tired of relying on glasses or contact lenses to see the world around you? LASIK could be the life-changing solution you’ve been searching for! Planning for LASIK surgery involves careful consideration and preparation to ensure a smooth and successful experience, so we’re here to outline the essential steps you need to take as you plan for LASIK this year.
How do you plan for LASIK?
- Do Some Research
In order to make an informed decision about whether or not to have LASIK, it’s important to learn more about the basics of how this vision correction surgery works, candidacy requirements, benefits, and potential risks. A read through our handy Laser Vision Correction Guide will answer most of your questions about LASIK and what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure.
We also offer a self-test on our website to help you determine if you will be a good candidate for LASIK.
- Schedule a Consultation
Once you have learned more about LASIK and have decided it may be the right choice for you, it’s time to schedule a consultation with our experienced LASIK team here at the Eye Institute. During this consultation, your doctor will ask you about your medical history, conduct a comprehensive eye exam, and measure the thickness of your cornea to determine your eligibility for LASIK. If it is determined that LASIK is not a good fit for you, alternative options will also be discussed at this time.
- Explore Finance Options
LASIK is an investment in your vision, so it’s essential to plan financially. The average cost of LASIK in the United States is around $2,100 per eye. At the Eye Institute, we offer multiple pre- and post-operative packages to suit our patients’ needs. During your free consultation, the detailed pricing information of the procedure will be discussed so you can choose the package that best fits your needs. Your insurance, health savings accounts, and flex spending accounts may cover all or a portion of the procedure. Financing is also available at the Eye Institute through CareCredit, and monthly payments can be as low as $87.50 per eye a month.
- Prepare for Surgery Day
During your consultation, your doctor will also discuss preoperative guidelines to ensure a successful procedure. This includes removing your contact lenses three days prior to your exam and surgery, as contacts affect the shape of your eye, which will in turn affect your measurements.
We also ask that you: eat before you come to surgery; dress for approximately 66-68 degrees in the Laser Surgery Suite; do not wear makeup, perfume, cologne, aftershave, or fragrant lotions; plan to be at our location for approximately 2.5 hours; and bring your eye drops.
It is also required for you to have someone drive you home following your procedure for a day of rest and relaxation. Please arrange for a friend or family member to accompany you and drive you back from the Eye Institute. Taking this step ensures your safety and comfort on the day of the surgery.
- Get Ready for a Smooth Recovery
As soon as the evening following LASIK, you will notice your vision slowly improving. However, you can expect to experience fluctuations in vision in the days following the procedure, as well as light sensitivity and seeing halos at night.
For the first seven days, it is important not to rub or bump your eyes, and not to wear eye makeup. You should also wear a clear night shield while you sleep in the first week following the procedure.
For the first two weeks following LASIK, you will also be restricted from swimming or entering a hot tub, as well as entering oceans, lakes, or rivers.
Please note that you will be given your doctor’s cell phone number for questions or concerns that arise following your surgery.
Careful consideration of various factors is needed as you plan for LASIK. The experts here at the Black Hills Regional Eye Institute are here for you every step of the way to ensure a positive experience and allow you to start enjoying clear vision without glasses or contacts.
Call us today at (605) 718-3937 to schedule your free LASIK consultation!
