Pre-Op Instructions

Before Your Procedure

Following these instructions will help make your LASIK or PRK experience as smooth and comfortable as possible.

• Wear comfortable clothing. Choose a shirt you can easily put on and take off without pulling it over your head. A button-up shirt is a good option for going home after surgery.
• Dress for comfort and warmth. The laser room is kept cool, so you may want to bring a light layer.
• Wash your face thoroughly before arriving. Remove all eye makeup, paying special attention to removing all mascara.
• Skip scented and aerosol products. Do not wear perfume, cologne, hairspray, hair gel, or aerosol deodorant on the day of surgery. Stick deodorant is fine.
• Arrange for a driver. You will not be able to drive yourself home after the procedure. Plan to have someone drive you home and, if possible, stay with you afterward.
• Follow your surgeon's instructions about contact lenses. You will need to stop wearing contact lenses before your pre-op examination and keep them out until your procedure for the amount of time your surgeon recommends.
• You may eat before surgery. Unless your doctor gives you different instructions, you may eat normally before your procedure. Avoid excessive caffeine, which may increase anxiety or make you feel jittery.
• Take your regular medications as directed. Continue your usual medications unless your surgeon or care team gives you different instructions.
• Leave valuables at home. Avoid bringing unnecessary valuables or personal items with you on the day of surgery.

Further Reading on Lasik