Cosmetic surgery (plastic surgery) and dentistry in Costa Rica

Frequently asked questions about Lasik surgery (continued)

What Kind of Anesthesia is Used During the Treatment?

Numbing eye drops are used. Sometimes an oral medication is used to help with relaxation. Don't worry -no needles or intravenous drugs are used.

Can you Have Both Eyes Treated at the Same Time?

Lasik Treatment can be performed on both eyes on the same day. This decreases the troublesome effect of being nearsighted in only one eye between the two treatments. You may elect to have one eye done at a time.

Does Lasik hurt?

The Lasik treatment itself is painless because we put a few numbing drops in your eyes to make you even more comfortable. You will feel pressure on and around the eye during treatment. With Lasik, some patients may experience a feeling of "something in the eye" for a day or so after treatment.

Can I See the Lasik Treatment as it is Being Performed?

You will be "awake" but very relaxed. You will not be able to see any of the details of the Lasik treatment. You will see a number of lights, but the images will be blurred.

Will I Experience Pain after The Lasik Treatment?

Some patients experience a feeling of burning or scratchiness. This feeling generally lasts from one to three hours following the treatment. Most people feel fine if they can take a nap soon after the treatment.

How Soon After Surgery Will I See Well?

Each patient is different. The eye drop medications cause some blurring, but most patients notice a dramatic improvement even as they leave the office. More than 4 out of 5 patients can pass a driving test without glasses or contact lenses after the treatment.

Will My Eyes be Patched?

No, but clear, protective eye shields will be placed over your treated eye(s) following the treatment, and will be removed in our office the next morning. You will continue to wear these eye shields at bedtime for 1 month for protection.

When Can I Go Back To Work?

Most patients are back to work full-time 4 days after treatment. An additional day or two is rarely required before returning to work. If you can we recommend that you take it easy for a couple of days.

Will I Need Glasses or Contact Lenses After The Lasik Treatment?

The goal of refractive surgery is to reduce your dependence on glasses and/or contact lenses, but Lasik patients still may benefit from reading glasses or distance glasses when they desire perfect near or distance vision. A nominal percentage of patients wear a thin pair of prescription glasses for night driving.

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