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Iqra Mazhar

Lasik surgery is an effective and non-painful method of improving eyesight. Lasik surgery cost in Pakistan majorly depends on the hospital and surgeon’s experience.

All About LASIK

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Madeeha Syed

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What To Do After Getting A Caesarean?

Overview

You&rsquo;ve had your baby, and you&rsquo;re ready to go home. But before you can leave the hospital, there&rsquo;s some post-delivery care that you should take care of. In this article, we&rsquo;ll cover caesarean section (C-section) aftercare, including when it&rsquo;s time to take your catheter out and when you&#39;re ready for discharge from the hospital.

&nbsp;

recovery after  a c-section

After you have a C-section, this is the most critical period. You might feel tired, emotional, or anxious about your baby or yourself. Be sure to:&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Make Time For Yourself And Rest

<ul>
	<li>Drink water</li>
	<li>Eat healthy</li>
	<li>Do light exercises only (such <a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/how-walking-helps-you-think-bette">as walking</a>) 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Take Care Of Your Wound And Stitches (If Applicable). You Need To

<ul>
	<li>Keep your wound clean and dry</li>
	<li>Wear comfortable maternity clothes that make it easy to get in and out of bed easily. Think loose fitting tops with leggings</li>
	<li>Avoid tight clothing, such as jeans or elastic waistbands, etc.</li>
	<li>Avoid heavy lifting or carrying heavy objects, etc.</li>
	<li>Speak to your doctor if you feel there is an infection developing in your wound area (this can happen on rare occasions) 
	 
	Ask for help from friends and family members when needed 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

You might feel weak and sore for a while after your surgery. Don&#39;t worry, it is normal! Moving around would help you feel better and get the blood flowing through your body again. You might want to ask someone to help with the lifting and carrying of heavy objects until you&#39;ve fully recovered from your surgery. 
&nbsp;

Here are some useful tips for moving around:

<ul>
	<li>Care For Your Incision: You&rsquo;ll likely be in the hospital for 2-3 days. During that time, your healthcare team would ask you to do a few things to help ensure you&rsquo;re on the right track.</li>
	<li>Keep Your Incision Clean And Dry. If needed, use pads or bandages.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Avoid Placing Hot Water Bottles or heating pads over your incision area because they could increase swelling and cause pain.</li>
	<li>Do Not Lift Anything That&rsquo;s Heavy during the first six weeks following your surgery. And even after that, if there&rsquo;s something you need to move, keep it light or, better yet, ask for help!</li>
	<li>Avoid Sexual Intercourse for six weeks after having a c-section (or until advised otherwise). This is to allow your uterus and vagina to heal well before you have another child vaginally.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>After The Period Of Six Months, you might resume intercourse as normal, but again, keep it light.&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>Stretching. It&rsquo;s a good idea to stretch your abdominal muscles and any other muscles that have been affected by the surgery.</li>
	<li>Breathing exercises. Use diaphragmatic breathing (also called belly breathing) to help relax your body and calm down after surgery.</li>
	<li>Pelvic floor exercises. They help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and support the uterus, bladder, and bowel function after pregnancy. They also improve sexuality for both men and women, increase energy levels (and thus productivity) and reduce lower back pain or sciatica symptoms by improving posture or alignment through strengthening these core muscles</li>
	<li>Walking is a great form of exercise during recovery time because it helps strengthen leg muscles while also building endurance, which is helpful if you have had stitches put in place during surgery! 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>If you notice any unusual bleeding, such as a sudden gush of blood, or if the flow of your postpartum discharge changes in colour or consistency</li>
	<li>If you experience pain or discomfort</li>
	<li>If you have a fever (above 100&deg;F) 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Note: If you have questions about your recovery that aren&rsquo;t covered here, please ask your obstetrician or midwife.&nbsp;

If you&rsquo;re concerned about anything at all whether it&rsquo;s the way your belly feels after surgery (which, by the way, should feel like it has been run over by a truck!), whether there&rsquo;s an abnormal amount of blood coming out of your vagina, whether there are signs of infection (fever, chills), etc., go see someone right away.

It&rsquo;s better to err on the side of caution than risk an infection setting in that could lead to more problems later on down the road. And even though C-sections carry risks themselves (mainly related with anaesthesia), they&rsquo;re still safer than vaginal births when it comes down to actually giving birth itself. 
&nbsp;

Just sitting back and waiting for your body to heal would get you there. But you could be up and running and taking care of your baby with the right care in no time.&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Take It Easy. It might be tempting to jump right back into your normal routine, but try to cut yourself some slack. Your body needs time to heal after having been through an invasive procedure like surgery.</li>
	<li>Don&rsquo;t Be Afraid of taking pain medication, if necessary. If soreness is keeping you from getting quality rest at night, talk with your caregiver about options for relieving this discomfort. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Bottom Line

C-section recovery is a process. You might not feel like doing much, but it&rsquo;s important that you get up and move around as soon as possible. The more your body moves around, the sooner it will heal!

Umna Salah

Ismail Munir

Downsizing In Progress

Introduction

With &lsquo;globesity&rsquo; &ndash; the global epidemic of <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/obesity">obesity</a> and overweight &ndash; taking over the world, multiple countries have begun employing policies and campaigns to stop its spread. As of 2000, there are more than 300 million obese adults worldwide according to the World Health Organization<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.&nbsp;

Obesity was once considered a disease plaguing high-income countries. However, significant escalations now have also been noted in low- and middle-income countries<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. An estimated 115 million people in developing countries suffer from obesity-related problems<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.&nbsp;

With the increasing number of obese people, several approaches cropped up left, right, and center, each claiming to be different and better than its predecessor in treating obesity. Most of the time, however, these techniques (which include lifestyle changes and medications) are unable to solve the problem. Therefore, doctors then switch to more drastic measures, such as surgical procedures.&nbsp;

The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) recommends weight loss surgery for adults with a BMI of 30-35 kg/m2, and who either suffer from obesity-related comorbidity (e.g., diabetes) or who haven&rsquo;t seen significant results from lifestyle changes (e.g., healthy diet and exercise)<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Understanding Weight Loss Surgery Options

The type of weight-loss surgery a surgeon recommends will be based on several factors, such as the patient&rsquo;s history of abdominal procedures, their health needs, and their preferences.&nbsp;

Weight-loss surgeries can be divided into the following:

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Restrictive Surgeries</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

Restrictive surgeries reduce the size of the stomach, thereby, limiting the amount of food a person eats. Post-surgery, patients normally eat only about three-quarters of a cup of food. Restrictive procedures have fewer side effects compared to bypass surgeries. However, they are less successful since overeating stretches the gastric pouch over time, causing it to hold more food.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Malabsorptive/Restrictive Surgeries</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

​​​​​​​These procedures often bypass a part of the digestive tract, limiting the number of calories absorbed by the body. However, malabsorptive surgeries are rarely conducted today due to their side effects.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Implantable Device<a href="#accordion">[4]</a></h5>
	</li>
</ul>

<a href="#accordion">​​​​​​​</a>This is a relatively new method and involves implanting an electrical device within the patient&rsquo;s stomach, near the vagus nerve. Also known as a gastric pacemaker, it produces electric stimulation that controls the communication between the brain and the stomach, thus, reducing appetite and leading to a feeling of fullness and satiety.

&nbsp;

Weight-loss surgery is not only to help the patients achieve a healthy weight but also to treat obesity-related diseases. The three most commonly performed weight loss surgeries are gastric banding, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric bypass. They are usually done laparoscopically; however, open surgery may be preferred if the patient presents with a history of gastric surgery, severe obesity, and other medical problems.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

This is a type of restrictive surgery where the surgeon places a silicon ring on the top part of the stomach. As a result, the stomach is divided into two parts &ndash; a small pouch above the ring and a larger part below, both connected via a small channel.&nbsp;

Creating the pouch reduces gastric emptying from the small pouch. The ring is adjustable and can be resized to further restrict the stomach size. Due to the creation of a small pouch, the patient feels full after just half or one cup of food. Also, overeating or eating too quickly causes vomiting.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Advantages</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

Adjustable gastric banding is a simpler procedure as compared to other surgical interventions. It has fewer post-op complications and promises a faster recovery for the patient. Also, it poses the least risk of vitamin and nutritional deficiencies for anyone opting for weight-loss surgery. Furthermore, it is reversible; so, if there&rsquo;s any discomfort, health risk, or a change of mind, the patient can easily ask their doctor to remove the band.&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Disadvantages</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

The weight loss is slow and the results vary compared to the other procedures. So, it may not turn out to be as effective for someone who wants a quick fix or wants to lose a significant amount of weight; people tend to lose motivation over time or they start to feel uncomfortable carrying the ring inside their bodies. It is definitely not recommended for a patient with type 2 diabetes since the success rate may be low. Moreover, the band requires multiple adjustments and, even then, there is always the risk of band slippage. Besides, adjustable gastric banding is associated with enlargement of the esophagus, which means there may be swallowing problems post-surgery. 
&nbsp;

Also called &lsquo;vertical sleeve gastrectomy&rsquo;, the laparoscopic procedure removes approximately 80% of the stomach, leaving behind a banana-sized stomach<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>. The remaining stomach or sleeve is closed with staples and is connected to the intestines. Since the size of the stomach is reduced, the patient feels full sooner. This is because the part of the stomach responsible for producing the hunger hormone is affected which, in turn, affects the metabolism rate so the patient experiences a reduced appetite.&nbsp;Common complications include leaking of the sleeve, infections, and blood clots.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Advantages</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

One of the pros of this procedure is that it is effective in extremely obese patients who have high-risk medical conditions. It is simpler and shorter than other weight-loss surgeries, and it is also possible for a patient to have gastric sleeve gastrectomy before a gastric bypass.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Disadvantages</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

It may lead to heartburn in some individuals, and it may be less effective as compared to bypass procedures. Additionally, it is irreversible. 
&nbsp;

This is a combination of the restrictive and malabsorptive procedures. The laparoscopic procedure has 3 steps:&nbsp;

1. The stomach is divided into two portions &ndash; a small pouch in the upper portion and a larger part below.&nbsp;

2. The intestines are also divided into two parts, and the lower part is connected to the small stomach pouch for allowing food to pass. As a result, the food bypasses part of the stomach and intestines. Thus, fewer calories are absorbed from the food.&nbsp;

3. The upper part of the small intestine is connected further down to the lower part. This allows the passage of gastric juices to the lower part so the food is fully digested.&nbsp;

Common risks associated with the procedure include more chances of infections and blood clots. Moreover, rapid weight loss can also lead to gallstones in patients.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Advantages</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

The best thing about it is, obviously, rapid weight loss. What&rsquo;s more, it&rsquo;s effective for diabetic patients and also for those who suffer from obesity-related conditions, like sleep apnea, high cholesterol, and heartburn.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Disadvantages</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

The procedure has more disadvantages than advantages to its credit. It is complex; it increases the risk of intestinal complications; and nutritional deficiencies are common post-surgery. Another thing that patients opting for gastric bypass suffer from is the dumping syndrome, i.e., feeling sick after consuming carb-rich foods. 
&nbsp;

An electrical device is implanted under the ribcage. It sends electrical impulses to the vagus nerve to inform the brain that the stomach is full. A remote control, present outside the body, helps operate the device.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Advantages</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

This procedure is less invasive compared to other surgical interventions. Consequently, the risk of any post-op complications, like an infection, is low.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Disadvantages</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

A major downside is that since it&rsquo;s an electrical device, the patient may need to reprogram its battery frequently. Side effects include vomiting, nausea, heartburn, chest pain, and problems in swallowing. 
&nbsp;

Similar to the sleeve gastrectomy procedure, the BPD-DS surgery entails two steps. The surgeon first creates a small stomach pouch. Next, they separate the duodenum (first part of the small intestine) from the stomach and the remaining part of the small intestine is connected to the stomach pouch only. As a result, the food bypasses more than 75% of the small intestine&nbsp;and the number of nutrients and calories absorbed from the food decreases<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Advantages</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

BPD-DS is most effective for obese and type 2 diabetics. It allows for an even greater weight loss than gastric bypass and patients are able to eat larger meals as compared to restrictive procedures.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Disadvantages</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

It&rsquo;s a complex surgical procedure, which may cause dumping syndrome. There are increased bowel movements as well as more incidents of nutritional deficiencies and malabsorption, which implies that the patient has to be more careful with their diet.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

This procedure is similar to BPD-DS, except that only one bowel connection is made in SADI-S. A loop of the intestine is connected to the small tube-shaped gastric pouch. As a result, food directly bypasses this part of the small intestine, where it mixes with digestive juices from the duodenum and ileum.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Advantages</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

This is a simpler and less time-consuming procedure than BPD-DS. Also, it&rsquo;s effective for diabetic patients, helping them maintain optimal blood sugar levels.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Disadvantages</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

Patients struggle with more frequent bowel movements along with vitamin and mineral deficiencies.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

This is a restrictive weight loss procedure and involves the placement of a deflated balloon within the stomach. Once the balloon is in place, it is inflated to create a sense of fullness. As a result, hunger is reduced.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Advantages</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

The only good thing about this procedure is that it does not necessitate surgery or a stay at the hospital.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Disadvantages</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

The balloon is temporary and has to be removed anywhere between 6 months and 1 year. There are also side effects, like stomach ache, nausea, and vomiting, that are common after the procedure. A gastric balloon procedure is not recommended for people with an intestinal disease or liver failure. 
&nbsp;

While weight-loss surgery may sound like a miracle cure for obesity, it is not that simple. Several different factors determine a person&rsquo;s recovery and weight loss.

Generally, here&rsquo;s what to expect after surgery:

<ul>
	<li>It&rsquo;s ideal to start&nbsp;with a liquid diet after surgery.</li>
	<li>After a few weeks, patients can shift to a soft diet, which consists of soup, yogurt, and cheese.</li>
	<li>The emphasis is mostly on small meals after weight-loss surgery.</li>
	<li>Doctors also recommend vitamin supplements and protein shakes to counter any nutritional deficiencies.</li>
	<li>According to a study, it&rsquo;s possible to lose anywhere between 38 and 87 pounds a year after surgery<a href="#accordion">[6]</a>.</li>
	<li>Periodic blood tests help monitor mineral and vitamin levels.</li>
	<li>It should be kept in mind that loose skin folds may appear, especially when there&rsquo;s&nbsp;significant weight loss. Hence, additional surgery for the sagging skin may be required. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Conclusion

With the increasing obesity pandemic, it is important to educate the world, especially at-risk individuals, of possible treatment options and the risk of not making healthy lifestyle changes. Even though weight loss surgery can be highly effective in preventing obesity-related diseases, they are not a one-stop solution and they should never be the top-most priority when looking into treatments for weight loss.&nbsp;

Key Points

<ul><li>Several different treatment approaches are advised to treat obesity. However, techniques like lifestyle changes and medications often fail to solve the problem in patients.</li><li>The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) recommends weight-loss surgery for adults with a BMI of 30-35 kg/m2, who suffer from obesity-related comorbidity (e.g., diabetes) or who haven’t seen significant results from lifestyle changes (e.g., healthy diet and exercise).&nbsp;</li><li>The goal of weight loss surgery is not only to help the patients achieve a healthy weight, but also to treat obesity-related diseases.&nbsp;</li><li>Sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and gastric banding are the three most commonly performed weight loss surgeries.</li><li>A year after surgery, people can lose between 38 and 87 pounds.</li><li>Post-surgery, patients are typically kept on a liquid diet. After a few weeks, a soft diet consisting of soup, yogurt, and cheese is advised.</li><li>The diet should consist of small meals after weight loss surgery.&nbsp;</li><li>Doctors may also recommend vitamin supplements and protein shakes for countering any nutritional deficiencies.</li></ul>

[1] Controlling the global obesity epidemic. World Health Organization.

[2] The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology. Obesity: Another ongoing pandemic. The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology. 2021;6(6):411. doi:10.1016/s2468-1253(21)00143-6

[3] Pratt JSA, Browne A, Browne NT, et al. ASMBS pediatric metabolic and bariatric surgery guidelines, 2018. Surg Obes Relat Dis. 2018;14(7):882-901. doi:10.1016/j.soard.2018.03.019

[4] Gastric Pacemaker. Stanford Health Care (SHC) - Stanford Medical Center.

[5] Bariatric surgery procedures: ASMBS. American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

[6] Types of weight-loss surgery. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

Nimrah H. Sattar

It&rsquo;s always best to first read about the procedure, to know how it&rsquo;s performed and what you can expect out of it, before you go full force ahead. This is especially vital when it concerns your eye, as sight is one of the 5 key senses. Like all surgical procedures, some of the concerns about LASIK are valid.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The chances of serious side effects/complications during the procedure are highly unlikely; documented evidence shows that the percentage of people experiencing problems with their operations is very low.

&nbsp;

Currently, LVC&ndash;Laser Vision Correction is considered among the safest surgical procedures, thanks to a series of technological advancements that have improved outcomes since the FDA approved it 25 years ago<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.

&nbsp;

However, it&rsquo;s natural to have some concerns before having refractive surgery and this article will help you differentiate between myths and reality. It will also outline the advantages and disadvantages of LASIK procedure and the ideal candidates for this surgical procedure. 
&nbsp;

Understanding LASIK Eye Surgery

LASIK eye surgery is the most well-known laser refractive procedure for treating vision issues. The transparent tissue at the front of your eye (cornea) is carefully reshaped during LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) surgery to enhance vision. In essence, you would no longer need to wear contact lenses or spectacles after LASIK operation. 
&nbsp;

Your eyesight becomes blurry when light does not properly focus on your retina. This is what medical professionals refer to as a refractive error. The fundamental varieties are<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>:&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Nearsightedness (myopia). When something is close to you, you can see it clearly, but it becomes hazy as soon as either you move far away or the object is placed at a distance.</li>
	<li>Farsightedness (hyperopia). Objects at a distance are clearer than those that are near.</li>
	<li>Astigmatism.&nbsp;Considering the shape of your eye, this may cause things to seem hazy or distorted. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Certain medical disorders either increase the risks of LASIK surgery or reduce the predictability of the results.

&nbsp;

In case of the following circumstances, your doctor might advise against laser refractive surgery for you:

<ul>
	<li>Autoimmunity-related illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis</li>
	<li>A compromised <a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/how-an-over-prescription-of-antibiotics-affects-your-immune-system">immune system</a> brought on by immunosuppressive drugs or HIV</li>
	<li>Ongoing dry eyes</li>
	<li>Recent visual changes brought on by drugs, hormonal changes, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or aging</li>
	<li>Corneal discomfort, eyelid issues, damage to the eyes, or diseases like uveitis, herpes simplex, glaucoma, or cataracts</li>
	<li>Pregnant mothers</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

In general, LASIK surgery is not suggested if you:

<ul>
	<li>Have an eye condition that causes the cornea to weaken or swell.</li>
	<li>Have an inherited eye condition or a family history of eye conditions.</li>
	<li>Generally, possess sound vision.</li>
	<li>Are nearsighted.</li>
	<li>Have a thin cornea or quite large pupils.</li>
	<li>Have age-related issues that reduce the clarity of your vision.</li>
	<li>Perform contact sports that could result in facial blows. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

There are several options that various eye surgeons specialize in, and your doctor can advise on the procedure which best suits you. The different types of LASIK are listed below:

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_1t3h5sf"></a>Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK)</li>
</ul>

The procedure known as LASIK is presently the most widely practiced eye laser surgery. It includes making a partial-thickness corneal flap by using an organic light emitting laser to burn away the corneal bed.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_4d34og8"></a>Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)</li>
</ul>

The top layer (epithelium) is scraped away during PRK rather than creating a flap.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_2s8eyo1"></a>Laser-Assisted Subepithelial Keratectomy (LASEK)</li>
</ul>

LASEK surgery is comparable to LASIK surgery, except the flap is made by using a special cutting tool (microkeratome) and subjecting the cornea to ethanol.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_17dp8vu"></a>Epithelial Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (epi-LASIK)</li>
</ul>

An epi keratome is a mechanical&nbsp; device with a blunt blade. Your surgeon uses it during an epi-LASIK operation to separate the epithelium from the stroma, the central portion of the cornea. A LASEK laser is then used to reshape the cornea.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_3rdcrjn"></a>Small-Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE)</li>
</ul>

Through laser, a lenticular &mdash; a little piece of tissue in the shape of a lens &mdash; is created beneath the cornea&#39;s surface during this more recent kind of refractive surgery. By using a very small incision, the lenticular is used to restructure the cornea before being removed.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_26in1rg"></a>Intraocular Lenses</li>
</ul>

Intraocular lenses are corrective lenses that can be surgically placed inside the eye to enhance vision. This is a common procedure in cataract surgery (in which the old, cloudy natural lens is removed).

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_lnxbz9"></a>Bioptics</li>
</ul>

Bioptics is a treatment for nearsightedness or farsightedness that combines one or more procedures, such as LASIK and intraocular lenses. 
&nbsp;

Before you make that trip to OT (operation theater), make sure to:

<ul>
	<li>Consider the potential cost of surgery. Most insurance companies won&#39;t cover the cost of LASIK surgery because it is typically regarded as an elective surgery. Be ready to make out of pocket payments.</li>
	<li>Schedule a ride home. You&#39;ll require transportation to and from the surgical location. Your eyesight could be cloudy after surgery, and you might still feel the effects of the medication you were given previously.</li>
	<li>Don&#39;t wear eye makeup. Avoid using eye makeup, cream, perfumes, or lotions the day of your procedure and the day before. In the days before surgery, your doctor could also advise you to clean your eyelashes more frequently or every day to eliminate dirt and reduce your risk of infection. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h5>Before The Procedure</h5>

People who have been properly examined by a trained professional prior to LASIK surgery typically have the best long-term outcomes.

&nbsp;

Before your examination and operation, you must stop wearing contact lenses since they can alter the structure of your cornea. During this time, you should only wear glasses.

&nbsp;

Depending on the type of contact lens you use, and how long you&#39;ve been using them, your doctor will give you particular instructions. During the evaluation, your doctor will also take into consideration your medical and surgical history in order to determine whether you can have the surgery safely.

&nbsp;

They will also perform a thorough eye exam to check for the following

<ul>
	<li>Eye infection</li>
	<li>Inflammation</li>
	<li>Large pupils</li>
	<li>Dry eyes</li>
	<li>High eye pressure</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

Moreover, your eye doctor will measure your cornea, and note down its thickness, shape, and any anomalies. This will help in assessing the parts of your cornea that require reshaping. These measurements also aid in calculating the precise volume of tissue that has to be removed from your cornea.

&nbsp;

Before LASIK surgery, doctors thoroughly evaluate your eye using wavefront-guided technology. In this exam, a scanner builds a comprehensive chart of your eyes that resembles a topographic map. These charts help your eye doctor to ascertain with precision the amount of corneal tissue that needs removal.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

If your doctor forgets to inform you or address any concern that you might have had, now is the time to ask/remind them. Together, you can discuss the advantages and disadvantages of LASIK surgery, and what you can expect before and after the procedure in your particular case.

&nbsp;

<h5>During The Procedure</h5>

The average time for the LASIK procedure is 30 minutes or less. You will be asked to lie down straight on a recliner, and you might be given medication at this point to keep you relaxed.

&nbsp;

After the numbing medicines, your doctor would apply a device to keep your eyelids open.&nbsp; They would place a suction ring on your eye before cutting the corneal flap. This might create a slight blurring of vision due to pressure excretion.

&nbsp;

Your eye surgeon removes a little flexible flap from the front of your eye using a tiny blade or cutting laser technique so that they can reach the area of your cornea that must be reshaped.

&nbsp;

They reshape a portion of your cornea using a laser with a predetermined pattern. A very small quantity of corneal tissue is cleared with each laser pulse. The surgeon repositions the flap after shaping the cornea. Generally, the flap recovers without needing stitches.

&nbsp;

Important Instructions during surgery

You would be instructed to:

<ul>
	<li>Keep your eye fixed and concentrate on a lightning point during the procedure, as the laser restructures your cornea by focusing on this light.</li>
	<li>Don&rsquo;t panic if you notice a unique odor. Some patients&nbsp;observe a smell similar to burnt hair.</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

Doctors will typically do LASIK surgery on both eyes on the same day if required.

&nbsp;

<h5>After The Procedure</h5>

Your eye may itch, feel gritty, burn, and watery post-surgery. Your vision will likely be hazy. Generally speaking, you won&#39;t feel any pain, and your vision will return quickly.

&nbsp;

Following the treatment, you might be given painkillers for pain relief and eyedrops to keep the eyes lubricated and clear from infections. Once your eye heals, the eye doctor might also advise you to sleep with a shield over it. Within a week of surgery, you&#39;ll be able to see, although your vision might still be blurry at this point.

&nbsp;

After surgery, your eye must recuperate for 2-3 months until your eyesight is stabilized. The quality of your eyesight before surgery will influence your odds of seeing better after it. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>The first 6 hours:&nbsp;It is important to keep your eyes closed and avoid bright lights.&nbsp;Use your sunglasses indoors to reduce exposure to bright lights. Use your eyedrops diligently and take pain killers as advised by your doctor. You will likely be given a protective eye shield to wear at least at night to avoid bumping or rubbing your eyes</li>
	<li>The first 24 hours after LASIK: It is imperative to avoid all activities that strain your eyes e.g., reading, watching TV, and screen time, including smart phones, video games, and computers.</li>
	<li>After 24 hours: Congratulations! Today you can take a shower but be careful not to use soap or any chemical products close to your eyes.&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

You&#39;ll have a follow-up examination with your eye doctor 1-2 days following surgery. They will observe the rate at which your eye is healing, and whether there are any problems.

&nbsp;

As per your doctor&rsquo;s advice, make additional follow-up visits within the initial 6 months following surgery.

&nbsp;

It can take a few weeks before you can resume using cosmetics around your eyes. Additionally, it may be necessary to wait a few weeks before returning to vigorous physical sports, swimming, or using hot tubs. Again, follow your doctor&#39;s advice regarding when to get back to your regular activities. 
&nbsp;

There are incredibly few complications that cause visual loss. However, some LASIK side effects notably: dry eyes and transient vision issues like glare, are very typical. Few people think these are long-term issues, but the truth is that most of these effects typically go away within a few weeks or months.

&nbsp;

The following are risks associated with LASIK surgery.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_4i7ojhp"></a>Eye Dryness</li>
</ul>

Tear production temporarily declines after LASIK surgery. Your eyes may seem especially dry for the first 6 months following surgery as they recuperate. Dry eyes may cause your eyesight to get blurry.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Your ophthalmologist will likely suggest eye drops to lubricate your dry eyes. Additionally, if you have extremely dry eyes,&nbsp; you may also choose to have specialized plugs placed in your tear ducts to restrict your tears from flowing away from the layer of your eyes.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_2xcytpi"></a>Halos, Glare, And Double Vision </li>
</ul>

Following surgery, you may experience vision troubles at night. These typically last between several days to a few weeks and include excessive light sensitivity, brightness, halos surrounding bright lights, or double vision. Your eyesight in low light (at dusk or in fog) may be less clear after surgery, even though a satisfactory visual outcome has been measured under standard testing conditions.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_1ci93xb"></a>Under Corrections</li>
</ul>

You won&#39;t get the improved eyesight you expect if the laser destroys an insufficient amount of&nbsp; tissue in your eye. Under corrections are more common in nearsighted people. You might require a second LASIK treatment to remove additional tissue.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_3whwml4"></a>Overcorrections</li>
</ul>

Furthermore, there&#39;s a chance that the laser takes too much tissue off your eyes. It is important to mention that rectifying overcorrections is much more difficult than under corrections.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_2bn6wsx"></a>Astigmatism </li>
</ul>

When tissues are removed unevenly, it might lead to astigmatism. You would still need glasses, surgery, or contact lenses in this situation.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_qsh70q"></a>Flap Issues</li>
</ul>

During surgery, bending back or cutting the flap from the front of your eye might lead to issues such as infection and excessive tearing. The topmost corneal tissue layer underlying the flap starts to grow irregularly during the healing process.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_3as4poj"></a>Regression</li>
</ul>

Regression is the gradual return of your vision to the original prescription. This rarely happens.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li><a name="_1pxezwc"></a>Alterations Or Loss Of Vision</li>
</ul>

It&rsquo;s not often that a surgery-related complication causes a patient to lose vision or render them helpless when they cannot see as sharply and clearly as they formerly did. 
&nbsp;

The operation is not painful. Some people have mild to severe discomfort, which typically lasts for 2-3 days. 
&nbsp;

Yes, it is possible to treat both eyes simultaneously. This makes it possible to do the work in the least amount of time while ensuring that both eyes have a balanced and corrected vision. 
&nbsp;

For a number of reasons, most LASIK eye surgeons concur that patients should be between the ages of 25 and 40 if they choose to undergo the procedure. One of the characteristics of a strong candidate for LASIK is a steady prescription. Prescriptions for eyeglasses and contact lenses usually stabilize by the age of 25.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

There have been no incidents of blindness attributed to LASIK alone. People are more likely to become blind from contact lens infections than from having LASIK.

&nbsp;

But if the proper aftercare guidelines are not followed, the ensuing consequences, particularly infections, can result in blindness. This is possible, however, it seldom occurs. The operation itself does not result in blindness, and the majority of LASIK issues can be prevented by simply adhering to your surgeon&#39;s aftercare instructions. 
&nbsp;

LASIK enables long-lasting vision repair, and only a small percentage of patients need a second procedure, which if needed can be done 5-10 years after the first procedure.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis or LASIK is a sophisticated method of refractive surgery. Implementing the corrective process for people with short-sightedness, long-sightedness, or astigmatism not only re-profiles the cornea but also corrects its curvature, and thereby changes the contour of the eye.

&nbsp;

LASIK is not for everyone. So, it&#39;s crucial to confirm that you meet the prerequisites outlined in the article to get the best results and lower your risk of complications. For instance, individuals with really thin corneas and others whose vision have not yet stabilized might not be eligible candidates for the surgery.

&nbsp;

Finding the most reputed clinic and a professional eye doctor in your neighborhood should always be your goal.

&nbsp;

Best of luck with your fresh perspective! 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>LASIK surgery is a surgical procedure to improve vision.</li>
	<li>There are certain protocols of this procedure.</li>
	<li>The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes, and the patient is usually sent home right after the operation.</li>
	<li>With Lasik, your eyesight can be permanently improved and typically, you notice a difference in just 24 hours.</li>
	<li>Post op care and rigorous follow up is necessary to prevent infections and ensure the success of the procedure.</li>
	<li>Discuss your queries and fears with your doctor if you consider getting LASIK surgery.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>