Pre-operative Care
Pre-operative care begins with a detailed eye examination to assess whether the patient is suitable for laser eye surgery. This includes tests such as corneal topography (mapping of the cornea), measurement of corneal thickness, pupil size evaluation, tear film assessment, and precise refraction tests. The ophthalmologist also reviews the patient’s medical and ocular history to rule out conditions like severe dry eyes, keratoconus, or uncontrolled diabetes that may affect outcomes. Patients are usually advised to stop wearing contact lenses (soft lenses for at least 3–7 days, rigid lenses for 2–3 weeks) before evaluation and surgery, as they can temporarily change the corneal shape.
Additionally, patients receive counselling about the procedure, expected outcomes, and possible risks. Instructions include avoiding eye makeup, creams, perfumes, and hair sprays on the day of surgery to maintain a sterile environment. It is also recommended to arrange transportation, as vision may be temporarily blurry after the procedure. In some cases, prophylactic antibiotic drops may be started before surgery.
Intra-operative Care
On the day of surgery, the patient is made comfortable in a sterile operating environment. Topical anaesthetic (numbing) eye drops are administered to ensure the procedure is painless. The surgeon uses advanced laser systems (excimer or femtosecond laser) to precisely reshape the cornea based on preoperative measurements. In LASIK, a thin corneal flap is created and repositioned; in PRK, the outer epithelial layer is removed; and in SMILE, a small lenticule is extracted through a tiny incision.
Throughout the procedure, the patient is asked to focus on a fixation light while the laser tracks eye movements to maintain accuracy. The entire process is highly controlled, computer-guided, and typically completed within minutes per eye. Strict sterile precautions are maintained, and the surgical team continuously monitors patient comfort and eye position to ensure safety and precision.
Post-operative Care
After surgery, patients are observed for a short period and usually discharged the same day. Vision may be slightly blurred initially but improves rapidly, especially after LASIK. Doctors prescribe antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and lubricating eye drops to prevent infection, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Protective eyewear or shields may be recommended, particularly during sleep, to avoid accidental rubbing of the eyes.
Patients are advised to avoid rubbing their eyes, exposure to dust, smoke, water (including swimming), and strenuous activities for at least a few days to weeks. Screen time should be limited initially to reduce eye strain. Temporary symptoms such as dryness, glare, halos, or light sensitivity are common but usually resolve over time. Regular follow-up visits (within 24–48 hours, one week, and one month) are essential to monitor healing and ensure optimal visual outcomes.
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