Femto-LASIK - Preparation

Before the operation takes place, a diverse range of preliminary examinations must be conducted. These include:

1. Corneal topography, a color-coded visual representation of the corneal surface.

2. A fundoscopy, which is an examination of the back part of the eye's interior.

3. A measurement of subjective refraction is taken, wherein a phoropter is used to assess refractive power. Lenses of varying optical power are placed in the phoropter until optimal visual acuity is determined.

4. Objective refraction, which is an automatic refractive assessment conducted using electro-optical systems.

5. Pachymetry, which determines the thickness of the cornea.

6. A measurement of intraocular pressure.

7. A slit lamp examination, in which the eye is stereoscopically magnified.²

You should stop wearing eye cosmetics 1-2 weeks before the preliminary examinations and operation are to take place.
The preliminary examinations require 3-4 hours. The subsequent enlargement of the pupils renders the patient unable to drive afterwards. Before the operation, eyelid ointments and eye cosmetics should be avoided.

About 4 hours should be planned for the operation, even though the procedure itself only requires a few minutes. The patient should be accompanied by an escort if at all possible. Femto-LASIK a.k.a. Intralasik is conducted using local anaesthesia. Patients may consume light fare on the day of treatment.³

Your doctor will explain possible preparatory measures in a personal conversation; you should also be examined in order to determine your suitability for the procedure. This will allow you to address your individual situation as well as prepare a personal treatment plan.