Gulf South Eye Associates - Ophthalmology Specialists, Metairie, LA :: Offering eye care, cataract and glaucoma treatment, LASIK, eye glasses and contact lenses, eye doctor Metairie LA


	Tina and your surgeon will be available prior to your procedure for any last minute concerns or questions. When you arrive at the outpatient surgical facility on the day of your procedure you will be given Valium, so you should arrange for a ride. You will then be prepared in a sterile field in the procedure room. During LASEK, your surgeon uses an alcohol solution to loosen the epithelial layer, then gently folds the epithelium back, which exposes the next level of your cornea. Then the Excimer Laser, a cool-beam laser, is used to remove the preprogrammed amount of tissue. This reshapes your cornea. After approximately one minute of laser treatment, your surgeon replaces the epithelium back to its natural bed. A bandage contact lens is then placed on your eye. You should expect to be in the procedure room for approximately 30 minutes for the treatment of both eyes. Your surgeon will then do an exam of your cornea and review your post-operative instructions, which include using anti-biotic, anti-inflammatory, and artificial tears eye drops. You will also have to wear clear shields the afternoon following your procedure. For LASEK patients, they may not notice an improvement in their vision until a few days later. This delay in visual acuity does not reflect the outcome of your procedure. Your epithelium starts to rejuvenate itself within the first 48 hours. You will also experience tearing, discomfort, and irritation for at least 48 hours after your procedure.