Pre and Post Surgical Eye Care Coon Rapids
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All You Need to Know
Taking the step to undergo corrective vision surgery or addressing an underlying condition requiring surgery is a significant decision. Our doctors are dedicated to ensuring that both the days leading up to and following your surgery go smoothly. We collaborate closely with your surgeon to provide all the information, instructions, and care needed to put you at ease. Proper preparation and aftercare are essential for any surgery, and Art of Optiks is here to support you throughout the process.
At Art of Optiks, we prioritize creating an exceptional patient experience, whether you’re preparing for surgery or recovering from it. Our skilled doctors take the time to understand you and your eyes to offer the best possible care. We are committed to providing a thoughtful, informative experience to ensure your comfort every step of the way.
Pre-Surgical Care
If you have eye surgery scheduled, receiving optimal pre-surgical care is crucial for enhancing the overall success of your operation. This process allows our doctors to further verify your eligibility and ensure that no issues have arisen in the weeks leading up to your surgery that could potentially disqualify you from the procedure.
Cataracts
After scheduling your cataract surgery, it is crucial to follow the pre-surgery instructions precisely to ensure you’re well-prepared for the procedure. During your consultation, we will review your current medications thoroughly. You may need to discontinue certain drugs, such as blood thinners or prostate-related medications, as advised. Proper adherence to these guidelines is essential for a smooth and successful surgery day.
- Stop wearing contacts two weeks before surgery
- Bring a driver to your appointment
- Fast for a minimum of twelve hours before surgery if being sedated
- Use pre-operative eye drops three days before surgery
- Wash hair the morning of surgery if needed
On the day of your surgery, our doctors will measure your eyes and determine the shape of the intraocular lens required to replace your current lens. This step ensures you are a valid candidate for the surgery and confirms that any necessary sedatives won’t cause complications. These precise measurements allow us to tailor the procedure to your specific needs.
Glaucoma Surgery
If left untreated, glaucoma can progressively damage the optic nerve in your eye, potentially leading to blindness. This disorder occurs when fluid accumulates in the eye, raising intraocular pressure. Several surgical options are available for treating glaucoma, including trabeculectomy, selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), and the use of shunts or implants. Before the surgery, you will need to attend a pre-surgery evaluation to confirm that the procedure chosen by you and your physician is appropriate for your condition.
- Stop taking any blood thinners or flagged prescription medications
- Take prescription antibiotic eye drops leading up to surgery
- Limit food and beverages starting at midnight the day before your surgery
- Bring a driver to your appointment
- No make-up, moisturizers, or jewelry
- Comfortable loose clothing
On the day of your surgery, it is important to have arranged a ride and to have carefully followed all pre-operative instructions. Our doctors will be with you every step of the way to ensure you are in good health and fully prepared for your procedure.
LASIK
When preparing for your LASIK surgery, it’s essential to thoroughly review all the provided information to understand the operation and know what to expect, including potential risks and available alternatives. From your LASIK consultation, our doctors will already be familiar with your eyes and lifestyle; however, a final exam is necessary to confirm your candidacy before the surgery date. If you have decided to proceed with LASIK surgery, please follow the guidelines below to prepare:
- Stop wearing contacts three weeks before surgery
- Bring a driver to your appointment
- Continue taking regular medications
- No perfume or make-up
- Eat a light breakfast or lunch
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
Our doctors have developed these essential guidelines to ensure that the day of your surgery proceeds smoothly. Following your LASIK consultation, you will receive detailed information and instructions tailored to your specific needs. Adhering to these recommendations is crucial to ensure you are in optimal condition for your LASIK surgery.
Post-Surgical Care
Post-surgical care is crucial for ensuring proper healing and optimal vision after surgery. This process allows our specialists to monitor the condition of your eyes, ensure you receive the appropriate medication and care, and address any questions or concerns you may have in the weeks following your procedure.
Cataracts
Arranging for a ride after your cataract surgery is advisable, as you will be unable to drive for 24 hours following the treatment. You will also receive a pair of sunglasses to wear at all times, which will help protect your eyes from sunlight, dust, and other particles.
- Wear provided eye shields as you sleep for three nights following surgery
- Get plenty of rest to promote proper healing
- Relax and don’t overexert yourself
- Take prescription antibiotic eye drops and anti-inflammatories
- Take prescription pain relief if applicable
- Avoid bending and any sudden movements for three days following surgery
Our experts will provide guidance on how to care for and clean your eyes during your recovery. Following these instructions precisely is crucial for achieving the best possible surgical outcome.
Glaucoma Surgery
On the day of your visit, you might spend three to four hours at the treatment center, depending on the type of surgery you and your doctor have chosen. Recovery typically takes between three and six weeks, depending on the complexity of the procedure.
- Avoid rubbing or scratching your eyes
- Take all prescription medication provided by your doctor
- Avoid heavy lifting and excessive activity
- Avoid swimming pools
The next morning, you will be required to come in for a follow-up session where the eye patch will be taken off, your vision will be examined, and your eye pressure will be measured. You will receive comprehensive instructions on how to take any prescribed medication and for aftercare.
LASIK
The LASIK surgery itself will be completed quickly, and you’ll likely notice improvements in your vision almost immediately. While hazy vision is common right after the procedure, it will gradually improve as you rest. Patients undergoing LASIK are advised to follow these guidelines:
- Utilize eye drops as recommended
- Do not rub or squeeze your eyes for a week following surgery
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes at all times
- Wear provided eye shields as you sleep for three nights following surgery
- Avoid make-up and cosmetics for one week following surgery
- Do not use hot tubs or pools for one week following surgery
- Refrain from sports and exercise for one week following surgery
It is important for patients to attend all post-operative appointments, as these visits are crucial for ensuring proper healing of the eyes. During these appointments, our specialists will perform a comprehensive eye exam to verify that the LASIK procedure was successful and that your eyes are functioning normally.
Locations & Doctors
Locations & Doctors
Each patient at Art of Optiks receives the best possible optical expertise and care from a team of exceptionally talented doctors. Providing our patients with exceptional care and education about their visual issues is our top priority. Every step of the journey, our doctors keep a transparent environment with each patient, making them aware and responsive. Art of Optiks will consistently give you the best possible customer experience with convenience and simplicity.
Currently, we have two locations that offer a variety of services to our patients. We have offices located in Wayzata and Edina, Minnesota, with doctors Timothy Haupert and Victoria Whitman.
