Before undergoing LASIK surgery, patients are often advised to follow a set of pre-operative instructions that will be provided by the doctor who will perform the surgery. Dr. William Boothe explains he will ask for the medical history of each patient - information such as present medications, illness, and allergic reactions to any medications, previous surgeries etc. This will help him to determine whether the patient is a candidate of LASIK eye procedure. If you are recognized as a candidate for LASIK, Dr. Boothe will provide you with specific instructions that have to be followed prior to the surgery. You must follow those instructions to reduce any chance of complications after the LASIK surgery.

Often, Boothe Laser Center will provide you with some of these instructions:
You should not use soft contact lens a couple of weeks prior to surgery because your cornea needs to return to its normal shape. Usage of hard contact lens should be stopped six weeks prior to a LASIK surgery. Patients should not use any kind of creams, lotions or cosmetics on their face as well as eyes. You should also refrain from any kind of eye make-up on the day of your LASIK surgery. Enough rest should be taken before a LASIK surgery. Patients are often asked to arrive to the center one hour before the surgical procedure. Patients can eat light food or drink some fluids before surgery.

On the day of the procedure, you should not use hair products containing alcohol such as hairspray. The outcome of the surgery may be affected by such types of products. Patients are advised to wear comfortable clothes, if possible loose clothing. Arrange a secure transportation from home to the center and back. Driving is not advisable after the surgical procedure. In fact, it not usually recommended to drive for at least three days after a LASIK surgery. Patients are often recommended to take a leave from work at least for four days after the LASIK procedure.

Patients should wear an eye shield (it is transparent) in order to protect the operated cornea from accidental rub or any kind of injury. If you are experiencing any severe pain, please do not wait for your next follow-up appointment with the doctor since it may require the immediate attention of an ophthalmologist.

In most cases, the patient is asked to come in for another appointment with Dr. Boothe within 24-48 hours from the surgical procedure. Patients are usually requested to meet an ophthalmologist at regular intervals for at least six months. Dr. Boothe will ask you to use eye drops to prevent inflammation or infection of the eyes after the LASIK procedure.

Your doctor may also recommend you to use a brand of artificial tears in order to lubricate your eyes, thereby preventing dry eyes. Avoid any kind of activities such as swimming, karate, football, boxing, etc for at least four weeks after the LASIK surgery. Patients are recommended to sleep after the procedure to reduce the possibility of post-operative pain. Never ignore any instructions given by your surgeon, for both pre and post-operative care. Follow the instructions of Dr. Boothe for healthy eyes and quick healing after a LASIK procedure. Surgical complications are rare in LASIK surgery, and can often be prevented by following the guidelines your surgeon will provide you.