Getting ready for your LASEK eye surgery is a major step toward clearer vision—and a smoother, stress-free experience begins with the right preparation. From pre-op instructions to what to wear and bring on the day of your procedure, this guide will walk you through how to prepare for LASEK surgery effectively.
🗓️ 1 Week Before Surgery: Initial Prep & Lifestyle Adjustments
✅ Stop Wearing Contact Lenses
If you wear contacts:
- Soft contacts: Stop wearing them 3–5 days before surgery
- Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses: Discontinue use for at least 2–3 weeks
Contacts can temporarily change the shape of your cornea and may affect pre-surgical measurements.
✅ Attend Your Pre-Op Evaluation
Your eye surgeon will:
- Measure your corneal thickness and curvature
- Assess your prescription and eye health
- Discuss expectations, risks, and recovery
- Review your medical history and medications
💬 Tip: Bring a list of your current medications and supplements to this appointment.
🥤 3 Days Before Surgery: Health & Medication Guidelines
❌ Avoid Eye Irritants
- Stop using eye makeup, creams, and lotions around the eyes
- Avoid smoke, allergens, or anything that could cause eye irritation
✅ Begin Prescribed Drops (If Directed)
Your surgeon may instruct you to begin using antibiotic or anti-inflammatory drops several days before surgery to reduce infection risk.
🚫 24 Hours Before Surgery: Final Preparations
✅ Wash Your Hair and Face
You won’t be able to wash your face or hair for the first 24–48 hours post-op, so get it done the day before.
❌ Avoid:
- Alcohol and caffeine
- Smoking
- Makeup, lotion, perfume, or cologne
These can interfere with the surgical environment or healing process.
✅ Arrange Transportation
You will not be able to drive yourself home. Ask a friend or family member to accompany you or schedule a rideshare.
👚 What to Wear on Surgery Day
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes
- A button-up or zip-up top (avoids pulling over your face afterward)
- Avoid clothes that shed fibers like wool or fleece
🔄 Don’t wear: Jewelry, makeup, perfume, or hair products
🎒 What to Bring to Your LASEK Appointment
Pack a small bag with:
- Photo ID and insurance card
- Surgical consent forms (if not already submitted)
- Prescription medications and eye drops
- Sunglasses (you’ll be light-sensitive post-op)
- A hat or cap for added light protection
- Comfort items: tissues, lip balm, water bottle
🧴 Optional: Bring artificial tears or preservative-free lubricating drops for immediate post-op use if instructed.
⏱️ What to Expect During Surgery
The LASEK procedure is quick, typically 15–30 minutes total for both eyes. You’ll remain awake, but numbing eye drops ensure you won’t feel pain.
The Steps:
- Your surgeon gently loosens and lifts the thin epithelial layer.
- A laser reshapes your cornea based on your prescription.
- The epithelial flap is repositioned, and a bandage contact lens is applied to protect healing.
🛋️ Immediate Post-Op: What Happens Right After
- You’ll rest in the clinic briefly before being released.
- Expect blurry vision, light sensitivity, and mild discomfort for 1–3 days.
- Use prescribed eye drops exactly as instructed.
- Wear protective sunglasses outdoors and avoid bright lights.
🚫 Don’t plan to work, drive, or use screens for the first 1–2 days.
🧼 Quick Checklist: LASEK Surgery Prep at a Glance
✅ 7–3 Days Before
- Stop wearing contact lenses
- Attend pre-op exam
- Begin eye drops (if prescribed)
- Avoid irritants
✅ 1 Day Before
- Wash your hair and face
- Avoid makeup, alcohol, and caffeine
- Confirm transportation
✅ Day of Surgery
- Dress comfortably (no fibers or makeup)
- Bring ID, forms, eye drops, and sunglasses
- Don’t eat a heavy meal—light breakfast only if allowed
🧠 Bonus Tips for a Smooth LASEK Experience
- Mentally prepare: Expect mild discomfort during recovery but know it’s temporary.
- Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to clarify instructions with your care team.
- Stock up at home: Have lubricating drops, cold compresses, and comfort snacks ready.
🎯 Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead, Recover Better
Knowing how to prepare for LASEK surgery sets the stage for a safe procedure and optimal healing. Following your surgeon’s instructions closely and arriving well-prepared helps reduce anxiety and ensures your journey to clearer vision is smooth from start to finish.
