My Laser Surgery

Friday 20th June 2008

Tomorrow morning I will be having my laser eye surgery to correct astigmatism and short-sightedness. I do not feel nervous this evening but all could change tomorrow!

I am having the surgery at Bristol Eye Hospital where I have already had a very thorough consultation with photos of the eye, pressure tests and sight tests. The treatment is the LASEK type where the epithilium is raised with alchohol and some cells scraped away before the laser does its work. The consultant prefers this to the Lasik where flaps are cut in the cornea.

He has told me what to expect for the next few days/weeks:

The operation should not be painful.

I will have temporary 'bandage' contact lenses for 4 days to help healing and prevent infection.

I may be in severe pain for a couple of days when the anaesthetic wears off. Although some people only complain of discomfort - some have severe pain so everyone must be told that this is a possibility. Sleeping tablets will be prescribed and eye drops.

I must stay in a dark room for 2 days and not allowed to watch tv or read. I have borrowed talking books from the library. (I feel like an old person having talking books and Lorazapam!)


I will have to return to the hospital in 4 days to have the contact lenses removed.

My sight may be really good immediately after the op but this will temporarily deteriorate when the healing begins to take place. Eyes may be hazy or gritty for a while.

Driving probably not possible for about a week. Can only drive when sight is at driving standard.

The final outcome may take from 1-3 months.

Everyone I have spoken to seems to know someone who has had laser surgery and all have had good results - so I am excited but not looking forward to the pain and discomfort!!

Will post again when I can.