Get ready for clearer vision. At NJ Eye and Ear LASIK Center, your journey begins with expert care from Dr. Jimmy Hu, a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained refractive surgeon. This guide will walk you through how to prepare for your LASIK procedure, so you know exactly what to expect every step of the way.
How to Prepare for LASIK
Confirm That You Are a Good Candidate
Before anything else, it’s essential to confirm that LASIK is right for you. During your consultation with Dr. Hu, a thorough evaluation will be performed to assess your prescription, corneal thickness, overall eye health, and medical history. You must be over 18, have stable vision for at least a year, and not have any eye diseases or autoimmune conditions. If LASIK isn’t the best fit, other options like PRK or EVO ICL may be available.
Discontinue Contact Lens Use Ahead of Time
Contact lenses can temporarily change the shape of your cornea, which may interfere with pre-operative measurements. Before your evaluation, you’ll need to stop wearing your lenses to allow your corneas to return to their natural shape. Generally, you should stop wearing soft lenses two weeks before, toric or rigid gas permeable lenses three weeks before, and hard lenses four weeks before. Dr. Hu will provide specific timing based on your lens type.
Stop Wearing Makeup, Perfumes, and Lotions
In the days leading up to your LASIK surgery—and especially on the day of surgery—avoid using makeup, creams, perfumes, and lotions. These products can leave residue or particles around your eyes, increasing the risk of infection or complications during surgery. Make sure to clean your face thoroughly and avoid products that could interfere with the sterile environment required for your procedure.
Arrange Reliable Transportation
You won’t be able to drive yourself home after LASIK, so plan ahead by arranging transportation to and from the clinic. Even though the procedure is quick, your vision may be blurry afterward, and you may receive medication to help you relax during surgery. It’s also a good idea to arrange a ride to your follow-up the next day, just in case you’re not fully comfortable driving.
Follow All Pre-operative Instructions Closely
You’ll receive a set of pre-operative instructions from Dr. Hu’s team—follow them precisely. These may include when to stop eating or drinking before surgery, reminders about avoiding caffeine, or instructions for using prescribed eye drops before the procedure. These steps are necessary to keep your eyes in optimal condition and reduce your risk of complications.
Wear Comfortable, Lint-free Clothing on Surgery Day
Choose clothing that is soft, comfortable, and doesn’t shed fibers, such as cotton. Avoid wool or fleece, which can release lint that may interfere with the sterile surgical environment. Your top should not require removal over your head to avoid disturbing your eyes when you change after the procedure. A button-down or zip-up top is ideal.
Prepare Your Home for a Restful Recovery
Before surgery, set up a comfortable recovery space at home. You’ll want to rest your eyes after the LASIK procedure, so prepare a dark or dim area in your home with items like lubricating eye drops, artificial tears, and any medications prescribed by Dr. Hu. You must also avoid screens, bright lights, and strenuous activity during your initial healing period.
Stock Up on Eye Care Essentials
Dry eyes are common after LASIK, so be sure to have artificial tears ready for immediate use. Dr. Hu may prescribe eye drops to prevent infection and inflammation—make sure you fill these prescriptions in advance. Keep your medications, eye shields, sunglasses, and a clean towel or compress within reach at home so you can easily care for your eyes during recovery.
Schedule Your Consultation
Dr. Jimmy Hu is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained refractive surgeon dedicated to providing personalized, state-of-the-art vision correction. At NJ Eye and Ear LASIK Center, he brings years of expertise and advanced technology to every LASIK procedure. If you’re considering LASIK, the first step is a comprehensive consultation to determine your candidacy and explore the best treatment options for your eyes. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward clearer, sharper vision.
