LASEK - Preparation

Prior to the operation, some preliminary examinations must be conducted. As a rule, these include (among others) the corneal topography (a color-coded, visual representation of the surface of the cornea), measurement of intraocular pressure, the slit lamp examination (stereoscopic magnification of the eye), the fundoscopy (examination of the back part of the eye's interior), subjective refraction (assessment of refractive power with the aid of a phoropter; variously refracting lenses are set into the phoropter until the best-corrected visual acuity has been achieved), objective refraction (assessment of refractive power using automatic measurement via electro-optical systems), as well as pachymetry (assessment of the thickness of the cornea).²

Contact lenses should no longer be worn 1-2 weeks before the preliminary examination as well as before the operation. 3-4 hours should be planned for the preliminary examination; additionally, the subsequent driving of motor vehicles should not be undertaken due to the necessary pupil enlargement. 24 hours before the operation, eye cosmetics and lid ointments should not be used.
For the procedure itself around four hours altogether must be planned; when possible, the patient should bring an escort with them. Due to the anaesthetic being merely local, the patient can take in light fare on the day of treatment.³

You should clarify any further possible preparatory measures with your doctor and allow yourself to be examined to determine your suitability for the procedures. This will allow you to address your personal situation and develop an individual treatment plan.