How to Prepare for Surgery
You can expect to feel nervous, anxious or excited prior to your procedure. This is a completely normal response. Before arriving at the laser eye center for your surgery, please carefully review the points below:
- Consult the Contact Lens Policy to determine the minimum length of time contact lenses must be removed.
- On your surgery date, please refrain from wearing perfume, cologne or any product containing heavy fragrances (lotion, cream, fabric softener, etc.).
- Please do not use any product that contains alcohol such as hair spray, mousse, perfume and after-shave.
- Wear comfortable clothing on your surgery day. Please do not wear clothing such as wool or fleece that may generate lint in the laser eye center’s surgical suite.
- There are generally no restrictions on eating or taking medications before or on your surgery day, however, please advise us of any medications you are taking.
- There are no restrictions on having a pacemaker during your laser eye surgery.
- It is important not to wear eye makeup for at least 24 hours before surgery and the day of the surgery. For your security, the procedure may be postponed if makeup is detected.
- We recommend that you avoid consuming alcohol on the day of your laser surgery, as this tends to dehydrate the tissues and can delay the healing process.
- In consideration of others at the center, and to ensure that your visit is as comfortable as possible, we ask that you not bring children to the center. The duration of your visit will be approximately (four) 4 hours.
- Please be aware that your eyes will be irritated and light sensitive following the procedure. This usually diminishes within 24 hours after the laser eye surgery.
- We do not advise driving short distances for at least 24 hours and long distances for approximately three (3) days after LASIK and seven (7) days after PRK. Please arrange alternative transportation from the center for after your laser eye surgery.
- Depending upon your occupation, you may need to arrange to be away from work following your laser eye surgery. Consult our “Time-Off Work” information sheet for a detailed list of expected times for different occupations.
- If traveling from outside Canada, please remember to carry proper identification such as your passport and/or other proof of citizenship.
- If you choose to have post-operative care with your own eye care professional at your expense, please book your appointments prior to your laser eye surgery date, and be prepared to give our center the name of the eye care professional responsible for your follow-up care. Your follow-up visits should take place at one (1) to two (2) weeks, and one (1) month following LASIK, with additional visits required for PRK.
Our Patient Care Center will be happy to provide you with referrals for travel and accommodations. Your surgery day will involve a couple of easy steps before the procedure itself. Find out what you can expect on the day of your surgery.
