After two pre-surgical visits, I went in for my scheduled surgery yesterday at 2:30pm. Thanks to Bob and Nancy for giving me a ride to the surgeon's office. At 3:38pm, I was walking out the door, somewhat clumsily, due to two Ativan pills dispensed to me prior to my appointment with the laser. Every patient gets them, I was told, to help "take the edge off." I was slightly anxious, so I didn't decline them.
I was given a head cover and booties for my shoes, since the surgical suite is a sterile environment. Curtis arrived just as I was taken back to the surgical suite. I was delighted that he brought the camera to capture the transformation of my eyes.
It was cold, so I was wrapped in a blanket from my neck down. Some kind of clip held my eyes open, one at a time. I was told to gaze at a flashing orange light, which I did.
As many people had told me, it was fast and painless. It took less than 15 seconds for one laser to create the corneal flap (the surgical staff counted down for me). I was then re-positioned to a different laser that worked on the prescription. There was indeed a burning hair smell while the laser did its job on my eyes, as well as a not-so-pleasant sound.
The medicine seemed to take effect while I was on my back. They asked me questions or directed me to do things, and it seemed like I was unable to move my mouth or talk. It seemed slow motion. I had been inside the surgical suite for only 14 minutes.
I could immediately read the clock on the wall and license plates and signs outside. They fitted me with funny-looking dark goggles. Curtis drove me home, where I went to sleep - goggles on. I slept for several hours, quite soundly.
[Photos Curtis took while the doctor and laser were working on me.]
I had a follow-up appointment at 8:45am today. I drove myself, without glasses or contacts (first time in 12 years!). I was 20/15 in my left eye, 20/20 in my right eye, and 20/15 together. My vision should continue to get better as my eyes heal. What a great adventure!
This video shows me removed my contact lenses for the last time, on January 6th.
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3 comments:
Bravo! I know someone else who had this surgery and she loves the results! Someday, perhaps, I will join the Lasik Generation!
Loved your contact removal video.
Kathy
Rob-Isn't it like a freakin' miracle??!! I have had perfect vision for over a year now and NO complications since having LASIK. I am 20/20 in both eyes compared to 20/650!!
Ohhh good to hear! I am scheduled for surgery on March 6th...I am trying not to think about it too much cause I am kind of freaking the hell out!
I wonder if they will give me ativan for now until the 6th. Hmm. :)
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