LASIK has transformed how patients correct vision issues. But the procedure’s simplicity can lead people to overlook the importance of preparation. While the surgery itself takes less than 15 minutes, everything leading up to it—and immediately after—affects comfort, recovery, and results. If you’re considering LASIK eye surgery in Houston, this article outlines what to do before, during, and after your appointment to keep the process smooth and low-stress.
Choose the Right Day
Select a day free of distractions. Block off enough time for the entire appointment—typically 90 minutes. Even though the laser portion is quick, you’ll need time to check in, review details with staff, and recover post-op.
Arrive Early
Being early prevents unnecessary stress. Traffic delays or last-minute confusion can increase tension, which affects how relaxed you feel during the procedure. Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time.
Read and Sign Your Consent
You’ll get a digital copy of the consent form ahead of time—usually via email or DocuSign. Don’t skim it. Read everything and clarify any points with the clinic before your appointment. Signing in advance saves time and avoids misunderstandings.
Avoid Caffeine, Not Meals
Drink water instead of coffee or soda the morning of your procedure. Caffeine may dry your eyes and increase nervous energy. Eat a light, healthy meal before your appointment so you’re not hungry during the procedure or while resting afterward.
Leave Children at Home
The surgical environment needs to stay calm. Whether you’re the patient or the designated driver, leave young children with a caregiver. They can become restless or accidentally interfere with someone’s post-op care.
Wear Comfortable, Practical Clothing
Dress in layers. Laser suites can feel cool. Wear close-toed shoes with good traction. Avoid flip-flops or heels. You may feel drowsy afterward, so minimizing fall risks matters. Stick to soft, non-restrictive clothing.
Bring a Reliable Driver
You won’t be allowed to drive home. Choose someone dependable who can stay during the procedure and guide you home. Don’t rely on a ride service—you need a familiar face who can help you settle in after surgery.
Skip Fragrance and Makeup
Don’t wear makeup, lotion, or perfume. These can interfere with the equipment or contaminate the surgical space. Come with a clean face and avoid using any skincare products that morning.
Pause Contact Lens Use in Advance
Your eye doctor will tell you how long to stop wearing contacts before LASIK—typically several days to a few weeks. Contacts can change the shape of your cornea, so follow this instruction exactly.
Pay Through the Provided Link
You’ll receive a payment link via text or email the week of your procedure. Complete payment before your appointment to speed up check-in. Confirm the amount with the office ahead of time if you have any questions.
Prep Your Home for Rest
You’ll need to nap after LASIK. Set up your bedroom or recovery space with blackout curtains, eye drops within reach, and comfortable pillows. Lower light, reduce noise, and plan to sleep uninterrupted for several hours.
Minimize Screen Time Post-Op
Don’t plan on working, texting, or watching anything the rest of the day. After your nap, continue resting your eyes. Screens can cause strain and dryness. Use artificial tears as prescribed, even if you don’t feel immediate discomfort.
Silence Mobile Phones During the Procedure
Laser systems are sensitive to interference. Keep all phones in airplane mode inside the surgical suite. Free Wi-Fi is available in the waiting area for guests who need to stay connected.
Recovery Starts Immediately
After LASIK, most patients can walk and function normally, but that doesn’t mean you’re fully healed. Avoid bright lights, direct air vents, and strenuous activity. Your eyes may feel gritty or watery for a few hours—this is expected.
Stick to the Drop Schedule
Use only the prescribed eye drops. Don’t substitute over-the-counter versions unless approved. Follow the drop schedule exactly. It’s designed to support healing and reduce the risk of infection or inflammation.
Avoid Swimming and Hot Tubs
Stay out of pools, hot tubs, and natural bodies of water for at least one week. These environments can expose your healing eyes to bacteria and irritants.
Don’t Rub Your Eyes
Your eyes may itch or feel irritated, especially as sensation returns. Avoid rubbing them at all costs. Use preservative-free artificial tears to soothe discomfort. If needed, gently apply a cold compress near—but not on—the eye.
Delay Makeup Use
No eye makeup for one week. Even clean brushes can introduce bacteria. Avoid applying anything near your eyes until your provider confirms it’s safe.
Show Up for Follow-Up Appointments
The first follow-up visit usually happens the next day. It’s brief but necessary. Your provider will check healing and confirm that no early complications exist. Don’t skip it—even if your vision feels fine.
Ask Questions Beforehand
Don’t save questions for the day of your surgery. Call the clinic with concerns well ahead of time. Knowing what to expect helps you stay calm and focused on the day of your procedure.
Understand What LASIK Can and Can’t Do
LASIK eye surgery is highly effective for reducing dependence on glasses or contacts. However, natural age-related vision changes still occur over time. Reading glasses may still become necessary later in life—and that’s normal.
Make the Most of Your Recovery
Sleep is one of the most effective recovery tools after LASIK. Avoid distractions. Protect your eyes from wind, sunlight, and dust. Post-op care isn’t complicated, but it does require attention to small details.
Final Thought
You only need to focus on two things: follow instructions and give your eyes time. The laser does the technical work. Your job is to support the results with rest, hydration, and caution. Each action you take—however minor—contributes to smoother healing and long-term success.
