BEFORE YOUR PROCEDURE

COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION

This meeting with Dr. Salinger and his staff will include an introduction to our laser technologies and some testing to help determine your candidacy.  Here’s your chance to get your questions answered and gain an understanding of the potential benefits and risks of laser vision correction.  Upon completion of your consult you will meet with Dr. Salinger…

PRE-OP EXAM

Dr. Salinger and his staff will perform a comprehensive eye exam.  This is not a “routine” eye exam, but a comprehensive, two hour exam that will investigate the overall health of your eyes and determine whether you are a good candidate for LASIK treatment, and which kind of treatment would be best for your situation.

Measurements include:

• Corneal thickness
• Corneal topography
• Corneal Wavescan
• Refraction
• Visual Acuity
• Pupil size in low light
• Presence of cataracts, glaucoma or other disease
• Monovision assessment

Upon successful completion of your pre-op exam, you will be provided both pre and post op instructions as well as prescriptions for eye drops you may need to assist in your post op care. 

         GENERAL PREPARATION      

• Avoid caffeine and other stimulants, and antihistamines, which may affect pupil size for at least 4 hours prior to your arrival.
• Avoid alcohol and any medications that cause drowsiness.
• Wear comfortable clothing.  The Laser suite is approximately 68 degrees.  DO NOT wear make-up and DO NOT wear perfumes, colognes or any other strong smelling scents. (This may cause your procedure to be postponed!) 
• Have a friend or family member available to drive you home after the procedure.  Expect to be at our center approximately 2 hours.

        DURING THE PROCEDURE       

• You will be offered medication to calm you, which you may choose to decline.
• You will be given eye drops.
• The non-operative eye will be covered.
• An eyelid holder will be used to prevent blinking.
• You will be asked to focus on a flashing light throughout the procedure.

        AFTER THE PROCEDURE 

• Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops will be placed in the treated eye(s).
• You will be asked to remain at the center after your procedure for about 20 to 30 minutes so that the surgeon can ensure that everything is stabilized.
• When released by the surgeon, have a friend drive you home.
• At home, you should rest for about 6-8 hours with your eyes closed.
• Follow up care is important to assure the success of your vision correction.  Your physician will provide specific instructions for caring for your eyes after treatment, and will recommend a schedule of follow up appointments.

        FOLLOW UP GUIDELINES 

• DO NOT RUB OR SQUEEZE YOUR EYES. This may cause permanent damage.
• Use the antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops you will be given EXACTLY AS DIRECTED.
• Use cool compresses if indicated.
• Do not drive for at least the rest of the day of your procedure.
• You may usually resume normal activities, including exercise, in 24 to 48 hours.
• Do not swim for at least 2 weeks.
• Do not wear eye makeup for 2 weeks.

AFTER EFFECTS 

In the hours and days following your procedure, you may experience a number of after effects, all of which are temporary.

These include:

• Burning sensation (first 24 hours)
• Tearing or watering (first few days)
• Redness or swelling (up to 48 hours)
• Blurry vision (48 hours depending on the procedure)
• Ghosting and glaring (few weeks)
• Light sensitivity (few days or weeks) 
• Red spots on the whites of the eyes (7-10 days)

If you should have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us at (561) 624-7878.