Laser vision correction - questions frequently asked before the procedure, part II

Laser vision correction is undoubtedly one of the most popular refractive surgery procedures in the world. It allows for quick, painless and permanent correction and getting rid of glasses or contact lenses.

In this article, we are attempting to answer another set of questions that we receive from those who are considering the correction procedure. We also encourage you to become familiar with the previous article containing other most commonly asked questions and the article about myths regarding laser vision correction.

“Is the first follow-up appointment compulsory?”

The first follow-up appointment after the laser vision correction procedure is mandatory. It is scheduled either for the following day (SBK LASIK) or a week after the surgery (TransPRK, LASEK). The follow-up examination is included in the price of the procedure. Those who are interested in having the laser vision correction procedure are informed about this fact at the registration stage when they are making the appointment for the preliminary qualifying examination
or for the one-day procedure.

During the follow-up examination, the ophthalmic surgeon checks first and foremost whether the healing process in the cornea is progressing properly. The dressing lenses that were previously installed at the end of the procedure are also removed.
Additionally, the patient's visual acuity is tested and further recommendations are made as to the course of the treatment.

The next appointments, regardless of whether they have been scheduled by the ophthalmic surgeon or made by the patient themselves, are charged extra according to the current price list. For the first 6 months after the laser vision correction procedure, they are considered to be follow-up appointments, and after this time – specialist ophthalmological examinations.

“If I wear swimming goggles, do I still need to refrain from swimming for 30 days after the laser vision correction procedure?”

It is absolutely forbidden to swim or bathe in natural or artificial water reservoirs for up to 30 days following the laser vision correction surgery. It is assumed that this is the time the cornea needs to heal completely.

After the surgery, the eyes are more prone to all sorts of infections and inflammations, and the water environment is full of irritating factors – chlorine (swimming pools), bacteria, pollution. Any type of irritation may hinder or even completely stop the convalescence period.

Swimming goggles, even though they protect the eyes from water, they create a lot of pressure around them. This is why they should not be worn for the first 30 days after the laser vision correction surgery.

“Is the procedure painful?”

The laser vision correction surgery is performed under local anaesthesia in the form of eye drops. During the procedure, the patient does not feel any pain, and the only sensation they might feel is the surgeon’s touch on their face.

Once the effect of the anaesthetic eye drops wears off, the patient may experience some postoperative ailments. Their nature and duration depend on the correction method selected for the laser vision correction procedure.

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