Are You Asleep During LASIK? | Dr. Edmiston Answers

March 7, 2024 | LASIK

Many patients ask if they can be put to sleep with anesthesia during their LASIK procedure because they are nervous. Today, Dr. Edmiston answers that question.

Are You Asleep During LASIK?

No, you need to be awake for LASIK because it helps us get the best results for two reasons.

  1. If you were asleep, we couldn't talk to you during the surgery, which is important for guidance and instructions. During the procedure, the surgeon may need to give you specific instructions, such as where to focus your gaze. Clear communication makes sure that you understand these instructions.

  2. Being put to sleep with anesthesia has more risks than the LASIK surgery itself, so we avoid it because we want to minimize your risks.

If you're feeling nervous about your LASIK surgery, please don't hesitate to let us know. We can give you an oral sedative to help you relax. We're also here to answer any questions and make you feel less worried. Before the surgery, we'll use anesthetic eye drops that numb your eyes so you won't feel any pain.

LASIK surgery at ClearSight involves precise reshaping of the cornea to correct refractive errors such as near-sightedness, far-sightedness, and astigmatism, enhancing your visual perception without the need for corrective lenses.

Why is it important to be awake during LASIK?

You stay awake during LASIK eye surgery because it leads to the best results. Every year, about 800,000 people get LASIK, and none of them are put to sleep with general anesthesia. The reason is simple: LASIK surgery is quick, usually done in just a few minutes, so there's no need to be asleep for a long time. Plus, the procedure isn't painful because doctors use local anesthetics to numb your eyes, which means you don't need the heavy-duty pain block that comes with being put under general anesthesia.

Another big reason you need to be awake is so you can follow your doctor's instructions, like looking at the green light. This helps make sure your eyes are in the right position for the surgery to work well. The anesthetic numbing eye drops help you be comfortable. And since you're not dealing with the effects of general anesthesia, you can go home sooner to rest up and start healing in the comfort of your home. This explains why staying awake during LASIK is key to achieving clearer vision more effectively and comfortably.

Our expert ophthalmology team at ClearSight ensures that every aspect of the laser surgery, from eye examination to the final laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK), is conducted with utmost precision. The use of local anesthesia minimizes any discomfort, allowing you to remain alert without worrying about pain. Our surgeons are trained to manage conditions like dry eye syndrome, which some patients may experience post-surgery, ensuring a smooth recovery process.

See Clearly Without Glasses with ClearSight

At ClearSight, we're dedicated to helping you achieve clear vision without the need for glasses or the use of a corrective lens such as a contact. Understanding that staying awake during LASIK is essential for the best outcomes, we strive to make the process as comfortable and stress-free as possible. If the thought of LASIK makes you nervous, remember that we're here to support you every step of the way, from providing oral sedatives to helping you relax to answering any questions you might have. Our use of anesthetic eye drops ensures a pain-free procedure, allowing you to start your journey toward better vision with ease. If you're ready to see the world more clearly without the hindrance of glasses, feel free to reach out to us at ClearSight. Let's take the next step together towards achieving your vision goals.

More FAQ's About Are You Asleep During LASIK

Do I have to be awake during LASIK surgery?

Yes, at ClearSight, we require patients to remain awake during LASIK surgery. This allows for optimal communication and ensures the procedure is as precise as possible. We use local anesthetic eye drops to ensure you're comfortable and feel no pain.

Why can't I be put to sleep for LASIK?

At ClearSight, we do not use general anesthesia because LASIK is a quick and relatively painless procedure. Being awake helps with the precise alignment needed for the best outcomes. We ensure your comfort with numbing drops and can provide medication to ease anxiety.

Is LASIK painful since I'll be awake?

No, LASIK is not painful. At ClearSight, we use anesthetic eye drops that numb your eyes effectively, ensuring you experience no pain during the procedure. Our team is dedicated to making your experience as comfortable as possible. Many patients say the main feeling they experience is a bit of pressure on the eye during brief portions of the procedure.

How do you keep patients calm during LASIK if they're awake?

At ClearSight, we understand the anxiety that can come with being awake during LASIK. We offer oral sedatives to help you relax, and our experienced staff is there to guide you through every step, ensuring you feel safe and informed.

What if I blink or move my eyes during LASIK?

There is no need to worry about blinking or moving during your LASIK procedure. At ClearSight, we use advanced technology that tracks your eye movements during LASIK. This ensures the laser stays aligned with your eye, even if you move or blink.

What if I sneeze or move my eyelids during the procedure?

At ClearSight, we understand that involuntary movements like sneezing or blinking during laser eye surgery can be a concern. Our team is equipped with techniques and tools designed to ensure your safety and protect the integrity of your corneal tissue throughout the procedure. We take every precaution to manage these natural reflexes effectively, ensuring a smooth and successful surgery.

How long does the LASIK procedure take?

The actual LASIK procedure at ClearSight is very quick, typically completed in under 10 minutes for both eyes. This efficiency is one reason patients need to be awake – the procedure is over before you know it!

How do I prepare for LASIK if I have to be awake?

Preparing for LASIK at ClearSight includes discussing any anxieties with us, so we can provide the right support, such as an oral sedative. We also advise you to arrange transportation as you won't be able to drive immediately after the procedure.

What are the risks of being awake during LASIK?

Being awake during LASIK poses minimal risks. At ClearSight, the safety and comfort of our patients are our top priorities. Being awake allows for better communication and alignment during the procedure, contributing to its high success rate.

Can I talk during my LASIK surgery?

Yes, you can talk during LASIK surgery at ClearSight. In fact, our team encourages communication to ensure you're comfortable throughout the procedure. However, there may be moments when we ask you to remain as still as possible.

CATEGORIES: LASIK

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