How to Prepare for LASIK Surgery: Tips for a Smooth Experience

Last Updated: February 26, 2025

More than 150 million Americans rely on glasses or contact lenses for clearer vision, but these solutions come with daily hassles. Glasses can be inconvenient, while contacts can cause irritation, dryness, or discomfort.

For those looking for a long-term vision correction solution, LASIK eye surgery is an effective, safe, and popular option. It’s the most widely performed laser vision correction procedure in the world, helping millions achieve glasses-free vision.

Dr. Sonny Goel, a leading LASIK surgeon in Baltimore and Columbia, MD, has helped thousands of patients prepare for LASIK and enjoy a smooth, stress-free experience. Here’s how to prepare before your laser eye surgery.

What is LASIK & How Does It Work?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a quick, minimally invasive laser surgery that reshapes the cornea, correcting how light enters the eye and focuses on the retina.

Conditions LASIK Can Correct:

• Myopia (Nearsightedness): Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly.
• Hyperopia (Farsightedness): Difficulty seeing up-close objects clearly.
• Astigmatism: A corneal shape irregularity that causes blurred vision.

Most patients see a significant improvement in their vision after LASIK, with many achieving 20/20 vision or better. While results vary, LASIK can significantly reduce—or even eliminate—your need for glasses or contacts.

How to Prepare for LASIK Surgery

Being well-prepared for LASIK helps reduce stress as well as ensure a smooth recovery and visual outcome. Here’s what you should do before your procedure:

1. Schedule Time Off

While most LASIK patients can return to work or school within 24 hours, some need a bit more time to adjust. Depending on your job, you may need extra time off—especially if your work involves prolonged screen use or physical activity.

During your free consultation at Goel Vision, you can talk to our team about the ideal recovery timeline for your specific needs.

2. Arrange Transportation

You will not be able to drive home after LASIK. The procedure temporarily affects vision, making driving unsafe. We ask that you please plan for a friend or family member to drive you home.

3. Have a Support System Ready

Although LASIK is a quick and painless procedure, some patients prefer having a friend or family member with them for support.

While they cannot enter the operating room, they can stay with you until your surgery begins. After LASIK, they can help you get settled at home and ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable recovery.

4. Avoid Alcohol & Caffeine Before LASIK

• Do not drink alcohol for at least 24 hours before your LASIK appointment.
• Avoid alcohol-based products like perfume, hand sanitizers, and hairspray before and after surgery.
• Minimize caffeine intake the morning of surgery—it can cause dehydration and affect tear production.
• Hydration is key to a smooth recovery, so drink plenty of water leading up to your procedure.

5. Stop Wearing Contact Lenses (If Applicable)

If you wear contact lenses, you may need to stop wearing them before LASIK to allow your corneas to return to their natural shape.

• Soft Contact Lenses: Stop wearing them at least 1 week before LASIK.
• Hard or Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: Stop wearing them 3–4 weeks before LASIK.

Our will provide specific instructions based on your lens type and individual case.

6. Skip Makeup & Lotions Before LASIK

Makeup particles or skincare products can increase infection risk and interfere with the laser. We ask that you please:

• Avoid eye makeup (mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow) for at least 24 hours before surgery.
• Don’t apply lotion, creams, or oils to your face on the day of surgery.
• Your face should be completely clean and bare before LASIK.

7. Dress Comfortably on Surgery Day

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your LASIK appointment.
• Avoid fleece, wool, or anything that sheds fibers that could irritate your eyes.
• Bring sunglasses—your eyes may be light-sensitive after surgery.

What to Expect After LASIK

One of the benefits of LASIK is that the recovery is usually quick and simple. Most patients are back to their normal routine the very next day.

Here’s what you can expect immediately after LASIK:

• Mild irritation or light sensitivity for a few hours after surgery.
• Vision may be slightly hazy initially but improves rapidly.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes to allow proper healing.
• Use prescribed eye drops to prevent dryness and infection.
• Back to your normal routine the next day – with clearer vision!

At Goel Vision, we offer free consultations so you know what to expect before, during, and after LASIK eye surgery. It’s an opportunity to explore your candidacy and have a personalized treatment recommended to you based on your visual needs.

Why wait? Book a FREE consultation to get started.