What to Expect before PRK: Pre-op Instructions
As with any other type of surgery, the success of laser eye surgery procedures such as PRK depends on both the skill of the surgeon and the ability of the patients to follow the instructions they are provided. At GW Eye Associates Inc. in San Diego, PRK pre-op instructions are provided to patients during their initial consultations with our esteemed eye surgeons. These instructions are explained in clear terms, and all questions and concerns are addressed patiently and honestly. We want our patients to know precisely to what they are committing before they make their final decision to proceed with surgery.
Are you a good candidate for PRK surgery? Are you willing and able to follow the pre-op instructions that will be provided to you? We invite you to read the following information and then visit our practice for a confidential, one-on-one consultation to learn more about PRK. You may just find that it’s exactly what the (eye) doctor ordered!
What do patients have to do before PRK surgery?
Although patients have more instructions they will have to follow after their procedures, they still have a number of responsibilities before PRK surgery. First, they have to pick up whatever prescription and other medications they will need after surgery at least two days before their PRK appointment. Usually, at least one medication - prescription eye drops - is started prior to surgery. Patients who wear contact lenses are instructed as to when use of their lenses should be discontinued. It is very important that patients do not wear their contacts after they have been advised to discontinue use as it could interfere with the precision of the laser surgery.
The Day of Surgery
On the day of their procedure, patients must be driven to and from our office by someone else. They should probably arrange to have someone help them around the house when they get home from surgery, as well.
On the morning of their surgery, patients are advised to eat good, healthy breakfasts but to avoid caffeine. Patients are allowed to bathe and use stick deodorant, but may not use:
- Facial makeup, and especially eye makeup
- Perfume, cologne, or aftershave
- Spray deodorant
- Eye cream
- Facial lotion
- Hair spray, gel, or mousse
Patients can take their normal medications unless our doctors advise that they should not on the day of surgery.
It is a good idea for patients to wear clothing that is warm and comfortable to their surgical appointments; preferably, whatever they wear to our office is something that they can also wear to bed once they get home. They should not wear anything that they will have to pull over their heads to remove, as they will want to avoid contact with their eyes immediately after surgery. No jewelry should be worn into the operating room.
Learn More about What to Expect before PRK Surgery
To learn more about what to expect before undergoing PRK surgery, please contact GW Eye Associates Inc. to schedule your initial consultation today.
